Tag Archive: urban logistics

  1. How is Minimal redefining urban delivery?

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    Source: Micromobility Industries

    The LEVA-EU member’s Co-Founder and CEO, Patrick Bion, explains how its compact urban delivery vehicles are a new category of software-enabled light electric vehicles designed to improve delivery efficiency for businesses, while handling the constraints of dense urban areas.

    Over the past decade cities have been redesigning infrastructure to facilitate rising demand in modern mobility modes such as bicycles and scooters. However, there has not been as much change in how goods move through cities, with delivery volumes increasing (parcels, food, grocery and retail deliveries).

    It has been noted that delivery vans still dominate this sector, and even with some companies electrifying their vans, there remains an issue of vehicles being too large for their purpose for delivering in dense cities.

    In the Micromobility Podcast, Minimal’s Co-Founder and CEO, Patrick Bion, is interviewed by Prabin Joel Jones about how the brand is setting out to solve this issue with its new generation of right-sized urban commercial vehicles.

    The background of Minimal’s leader and his goal of improving urban logistics

    In 2012, when electric vehicles were still in their early adoption phase, Bion worked on the design team at Tesla. Later, he worked on commercial electric vehicles at Arrival, with customers including Amazon and UPS. This work experience moulded the thesis behind Minimal.

    For urban logistics, although the electrification of vans is important, there are issues regarding space that need to be solved. For example, a diesel van and an electric van often occupy the same physical space in city traffic, require similar infrastructure, and, with their size, may be too big for some delivery tasks.

    The traditional van tends to travel around cities at extremely low speeds, and is often large, expensive, can be difficult to park and manoeuvre, and might carry less than its full capacity as it makes short delivery drop-offs in congested areas.

    Minimal believes that there needs to be a wider range of vehicle types for the future of city delivery, not only vans and cargo bikes, but smaller, software-enabled vehicles that are designed to handle the constraints of dense urban areas more efficiently.

    Bion describes Minimal’s mission as “helping businesses move more with less”.

    Minimal’s Pedal Four solution

    This model is a four-wheeled commercial vehicle with pedal assistance, with its positioning described as between a cargo bike and a van, innovated to optimise urban delivery.

    It offers the following:

    • Payload capacity of 250-300 kg and 3 m³ of cargo volume
    • Speed assistance of up to 25 km/h
    • Meets pedal-assist vehicle requirements, including a 250 watt continuous power rating.
    • A range of 60 km (which may be lower depending on conditions such as hillier cities or more demanding stop-start conditions).

    In terms of battery infrastructure, Pedal Four utilises around 2.8 to 3 kWh of battery capacity, much less in comparison to a traditional electric van estimated to carry a battery of 35 to 55 kWh.

    Its batteries are hot swappable and don’t require expensive charging infrastructure as they can be charged from standard mains power.

    The vehicle is fully software-enabled to facilitate operation as part of a larger fleet system to support better utilisation, predictive maintenance, fleet management and driver safety.

    It tracks data including battery health, payload, braking behaviour, driver usage, tyre pressure, vehicle location and state of charge.

    Early data from Minimal UK customers has revealed the cost-effectiveness of this model. From approximately 100,000 km of testing and operation, the Pedal Four delivered 36-40% more drops per hour compared to diesel vans in some London use cases. Minimal claims that in some scenarios this efficiency, combined with vehicle cost, service and maintenance, can save operators costs of up to 60% per parcel.

    Minimal’s company capabilities for optimising commercial deliveries

    Its Fleet OS software platform simplifies the management of multiple vehicle types in one place, optimising efficient monitoring and strategic decision making for businesses.

    The company is vertically integrated, with 90% of its vehicle parts engineered, sourced or designed by the company.

    Minimal focuses on high efficiency with a microfactory model, where it aims to build smaller assembly facilities close to the markets it’s serving.

    Its first microfactory is in West London, with capacity to make 5,000 vehicles per year. Minimal plans to introduce additional microfactory sites in mainland Europe, and the east coast of the USA, to target New York and Boston.

    More information about Minimal’s highly sustainable, efficient offering for the urban logistics sector can be accessed on the Micromobility industries website.

    Minimal at Eurobike

    Most recently, the company exhibited at the globally renowned Eurobike to demonstrate its offering to the world of sustainable mobility. Jessie Ridler, Minimal’s Engineering Product Manager, has also detailed her experience as a member of the judging panel for the Eurobike Award.

  2. Minimal demonstrates Pedal 4

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    Source: Minimal

    Earlier this month at Micromobility Europe, LEVA-EU member Minimal gave electric-mobility insights specialist Charging Stack an in-depth look at its cutting-edge electric cargo bike solution for urban logistics.

    Charging Stack recently published a video of Minimal’s Product Design Engineer, Sean Heaney, talking through the advanced features of the Pedal 4 as a sustainable and efficient replacement for an urban logistics van.

    After being introduced to the cargo bike, Charging Stack said the following on its LinkedIn:

    “What makes Pedal 4 interesting is how complete it feels as a city logistics vehicle. It is small enough for dense urban routes, practical enough for serious cargo, and digital enough for fleet operators who need visibility.”

    Featured Pedal 4 highlights include:

    • 300kg payload
    • 2.5m³ of cargo space
    • 60km range with two swappable batteries
    • Pedal by wire chainless technology
    • FleetOS fleet management platform
    • Key fob system for unlocking and locking vehicle/cargo box
    • New HMI system
    • Double front wishbone suspension

    A video demonstration of the Pedal 4’s easy-to-use operation can be accessed on Charging Stack’s LinkedIn or YouTube.

  3. ALICE book on urban logistics transformation published

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    Source: ALICE

    The Alliance for Logistics Innovation through Collaboration in Europe (ALICE) has published a new book, Urban Logistics Transformation: E-Commerce and Sustainable Circular Economy Approaches, which presents leading research and practical insights into the transformation of last-mile delivery in urban environments.

    The publication features 22 chapters with contributions from numerous ALICE members, and places the topic of urban logistics at the intersection of sustainability, digitalisation and circular-economy principles. The pressures placed on urban logistics systems by rapid changes in factors such as urbanisation, e-commerce and consumer expectations are explored in detail, alongside examinations of real-world solutions including cargo bikes, micro-hubs and more.

    The book seeks to bridge the gap between research and practice, consolidating latest knowledge with practical solutions, case studies and policy perspectives in a way designed to support efficient and sustainable last-mile logistics.

    The growing importance of circularity in logistics is also explored, taking in factors such as reusable packaging, producer responsibility schemes, and the integrated forward and reverse flow of goods.

    The book aims to provide a comprehensive roadmap for the transformation of urban logistics systems, highlighting the importance of collaboration between the public and private sectors, alongside improved integration of infrastructure, regulatory frameworks, and digital solutions.

  4. Minimal wins BIG SEE Product Design award

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    Source: Minimal, BIG SEE Image credit: BIG SEE

    The prestigious global design accolade highlights the LEVA-EU member’s Minimal Pedal 4 as a smart and powerful sustainable urban logistics solution. The company acknowledges that the recognition is a strong sign that the world is ready for a smarter answer to city logistics.

    The Minimal Pedal 4’s design was created in a London micro-factory by the team of Joe Allum, Patrick Bion and Liam Sill, who possess strong automotive and motorsport backgrounds. They set out to innovate a smart city logistics vehicle that travelled quickly through cities, with zero emissions and cheap operating costs.

    The company emphasises that urban logistics needs to be decarbonised to improve sustainability, concluding that the answer lies in a smaller, smarter solution than a van, the Minimal Pedal 4.

    The award-winning Minimal Pedal 4

    Minimal’s light electric vehicle is a purpose-built, pedal assist four-wheeler which has been innovated to transport goods, faster, cheaper and sustainably, offering a functional, minimalist solution for businesses.

    In terms of design, the Minimal team directly embedded aesthetics into the vehicle’s functional architecture to where it made the most sense. They reimagined its vehicle geometry by drastically reducing part counts and fastening methods, to ensure a robust and serviceable vehicle.

    Visually, the brand describes the Pedal 4 as blending “utilitarian toughness with an approachable, industrial design”. Its exposed, zinc-coated steel frame functions as a practical centrepiece, as it contrasts with sleek, satin-black metal covers.

    At the front its rotationally moulded bumper acts as a safe shield which absorbs impacts, and frames circular lighting.

    At the rear, its high-capacity cargo box is a curved 3D canvas which enables seamless branding and customisation.

    To enable an intuitive, ergonomic user experience, the Pedal 4 boasts a proprietary keyless entry system, which can be managed remotely as it works with Minimal’s purpose-built FleetOS backend. The system provides operators with live GPS tracking, OTA updates, as well as deep service analytics.

    More information about the Pedal 4 can be accessed on Minimal’s website.

  5. Fulpra introduces four-wheeled cargo bike

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    Source: Installatie

    The LEVA-EU member unveils the Quatro, an emission-free vehicle which can be used by installers, maintenance providers, and technical service companies operating in urban environments. As it is legally classified as a bicycle, it offers a practical alternative to delivery vans in zero-emission zones and congested city centres.

    The Quatro has been innovated by Dutch manufacturer Fulpra as a solution to the growing number of urban restrictions on commercial vehicles, such as low-emission requirements, speed limitations, and increasingly strict parking regulations.

    Designed to save time in urban environments

    With its fully enclosed roof, four-wheel configuration, and load volume of 2.5 cubic metres, the Quatro is targeted at installation firms, technical service providers, maintenance services, and municipal organisations working primarily in residential neighbourhoods and city centres. Because it is legally considered a bicycle, the vehicle can use cycle paths and stop directly at job sites, eliminating the need for distant parking.

    “By using cycle routes and free parking, much of the time lost due to urban restrictions for delivery vans disappears,” says Paul Buijs, associate professor at the University of Groningen.

    Technicians using similar concepts report faster arrival times, reduced physical strain, and the ability to complete more service visits per day, enabling service companies to improve scheduling predictability.

    Practical development driven by industry needs

    According to Fulpra, the Quatro was developed based on direct feedback from service companies requiring an emission-free solution that combines the manoeuvrability of a bicycle with the load capacity and comfort of a van.

    “With the Quatro, we’re solving a practical problem that every mechanic in the city recognizes,” says Michel van Eijnatten, co-founder and CGO of Fulpra. “You ride where a bike is allowed, park right outside, and still have plenty of room for tools and materials.”

    Stability, capacity, and usability for use all year round

    The Quatro’s four-wheel design provides enhanced stability, even under full load, making it suitable for drivers without extensive cycling experience. With a cargo volume of 2.5 cubic metres, it offers significantly more capacity than conventional cargo bikes, accommodating complete toolkits and installation materials.

    A sprung chassis and enclosed cabin protect drivers from adverse weather conditions, enabling intensive year-round use and high daily mileage in demanding urban settings.

    Service, monitoring, and fleet support

    Fulpra will provide dedicated service support for the Quatro through its own service department in the Netherlands and Belgium and is introducing an IoT-based service platform that enables vehicle monitoring, diagnostics, and remote software updates, aimed at reducing downtime and supporting professional fleet operations.

    Market availability and pricing

    The Fulpra Quatro is scheduled to enter the market in March 2026. Its pricing starts at €14,990, with leasing options available from €333 per month.

    Special visit to UK regional council

    Fulpra’s latest creation recently made a special visit to the UK, where it was introduced to Brighton & Hove City Council’s Transport Planner, Daniel Bianco, who was very impressed with the Quatro’s capacity and smooth performance on local roads.

  6. Fulpra tour with founder

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    Source: Fulpra

    The LEVA-EU member’s founder and director, Niels Markvoort, gives a tour of the cargo bike brand’s factory in Nieuwegein, the Netherlands. He shares his perspective on the creation of Fulpra, its unique offering and latest product updates in providing sustainable urban logistics solutions.

    First, Niels gives a tour of the inline assembly area in which Fulpra bikes are built, where he details the different components being put together to produce cargo bikes, and the various load compartments, which are designed uniquely for each customer.

    He also spoke of Fulpra’s newest innovation, the Quatro, a four-wheeled light electric vehicle previously showcased at Eurobike. It is being tested and being put into production for market availability in a few months, with the incorporation of a Bluetooth radio feature, for playing music while riding.

    Niels reveals that, after developing bikes for 20+ years, he started Fulpra to merge the enjoyment of cycling around the city with urban logistics. He describes the core selling point of Fulpra products as being able to cycle like a normal bike, with the capacity to handle a lot of weight. Looking ahead, he aims for every European city to feature the Fulpra optimising convenient urban logistics.

  7. DECARBOMILE Project pilots micro-hub and cargo bike scheme to cut delivery emissions in Logroño

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    Source: EU Urban Mobility Observatory

    As part of the DECARBOMILE Horizon Europe project, the Spanish city of Logroño has launched its first urban freight micro-hub and a public municipal cargo bike service to reduce emissions from last-mile deliveries. These initiatives underline the city’s growing commitment to rethinking urban logistics through sustainability and efficiency.

    Developed with the support of the Municipality of Logroño, Intelligent Parking, and other local partners, the scheme positions Logroño as a leading model for low-emission freight transport in Europe.

    The pilot includes a modular micro-hub next to the Revellín parking lot, equipped with:

    • Solar-powered units
    • Charging stations for electric cargo bikes
    • Secure digital access for logistics operators

    This infrastructure enables goods to be transferred from vans to e-cargo bikes, ensuring cleaner, more sustainable deliveries.

    In addition, citizens and businesses can access the municipal cargo bikes – each with a 100kg capacity – free of charge for up to four hours daily, supported by integrated digital tools. A public demonstration on 8 July 2025 successfully engaged couriers, merchants, and residents, encouraging wider adoption of the service.

    The pilot will run until August 2026, with expansion plans including:

    • A second micro-hub at San Blas Market
    • Deployment of smart lockers
    • Real-time monitoring to track usage and emissions

    The DECARBOMILE project aims to provide a replicable blueprint for sustainable urban freight across Europe, helping cities achieve climate goals while improving quality of life for residents. The project states on its website, “Logroño’s experience illustrates that with the right partnerships, citizen engagement, and technical support, European cities can rapidly transition toward cleaner, smarter logistics.”

  8. SUMP Decision Makers Summary now available in Polish

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    Source: Eltis, H. Figg

    Urban Mobility Observatory, Eltis, has recently added a Polish-language version of its Sustainable Urban Mobility Plan (SUMP) (2nd edition). Global interest in developing and implementing a SUMP has increased following the publication of its Guidelines and Summaries. Local settings, governance, and transport conditions in cities around the world have all been considered as principles in the plan.

    In order to make the Guidelines for developing and implementing a SUMP (2nd edition) easier to use and more widespread, the interactive summary has been translated into 16 different languages to include Polish. The 10-page summary translates as an accessible user guide for governing figures wishing to utilise the SUMP Guidelines (2nd edition).

    The summary goes some way to explain the foundations of SUMP; its principles, planning processes and the four SUMP phases are all shared. Those accessing the summary are additionally given an insight into the benefits of SUMP and guidance on how to start the plan. In addition, it can also be used as an introduction to urban mobility planning.

    The original SUMP Summary for decision-makers can be downloaded in English here. All current and future translations are available on the translation page here.

  9. European Commission recommendations for SUMP national support programmes

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    Source: Eltis, M. Collings

    430 European cities to receive support to develop their Sustainable Urban Mobility Plans (SUMPs)

    A recommendation was adopted on 8 March by the European Commission, designed to help member states to support their cities and towns in improving urban mobility and cutting transport emissions. The 430 major cities along the trans-European transport network will receive support to develop their SUMPs.

    National programmes are recommended to support the planning and implementation of urban mobility, managed by a dedicated office. Cities should expect support in the form of guidance materials, traningin programmes and capacity building, alongside technical expertise and financial support.

    Cities and towns will be encouraged to participate in peer learning and networking, and the sharing of good practices. Coordinated awareness-raising campaigns are also envisaged. Representatives from national programme management offices will be invited to work with the new Expert Group on Urban Mobility. Member States are expected to inform the Commission annually of actions taken in the light of the Recommendation.

    Under the recommendation, the concept of SUMPs has been updated to integrate latest policy developments and strategies to make use of new mobility services, address climate change, and reduce road fatalities in cities. These policy developments prioritise such affordable and sustainable transport modes as shared mobility services, walking, cycling, public transport and zero-emission urban logistics. The update to the SUMPs concept is a result of the commitment to the European Commission’s 2021 Urban Mobility Framework.