Tag Archive: utrecht

  1. Utrecht offers free light electric vehicle trials ahead of 2026 delivery restrictions

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    Source: Dockr , LPU Logistiek Platform Utrecht

    The Dutch city is inviting businesses to test this sustainable mode of transportation for one month, so they can explore zero-emission transport alternatives in advance of new delivery traffic regulations that will come into effect next year. LEVA-EU member Dockr’s cargo e-bikes are among the selected vehicles that are available for free trials as part of this scheme.

    From 1 January 2026, conventional trucks and vans will face restrictions in Utrecht’s city centre, which has prompted the municipality to encourage businesses to trial zero-emission transport alternatives.

    From now until 1 March 2026, companies are able to try out LEVs free of charge for one month. The initiative is open not only to businesses located in the city centre, but also to those that regularly deliver goods there.

    The trial includes three light electric vehicle types, including Dockr e-cargo bikes, to give businesses first-hand experience of cleaner, more manoeuvrable transportation alternatives to delivery vans.

    Dockr is offering its Urban Arrow L & XL , designed for urban logistics transportation, for testing. They offer volumes of 400L (L) and 570L (XL) and are equipped to carry a maximum load capacity of 250 kg.

    Businesses interested in participating can register or request further information through the city’s logistics brokers at logistiekmakelaar@utrecht.nl.

  2. Utrecht raises awareness of e-bike risks among young people

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    Source: Fietsberaad

    The Province of Utrecht in the Netherlands is offering a free e-bike simulator and e-bike course, developed by road safety organisation Responsible Young Drivers, to municipalities, schools and festivals, with the aim of preventing accidents among young e-bike riders.

    According to Fietsberaad, numbers of young people being injured in accidents which involve e-bikes have risen significantly in the Netherlands over recent years. André van Schie, Provincial Executive Member of Utrecht, recognised the importance of raising awareness to counteract this trend. “Precisely because the number of young people sustaining serious injuries as a result of an accident with a fat bike or fast electric bicycle has increased so dramatically, we, as the province of Utrecht, believe it’s important to make an extra effort to raise awareness among young people about the risks of speeding in traffic.”

    The e-bike simulator and course have been developed by Responsible Young Drivers, a road-safety organisation aimed at, and run by, young people. In the e-bike simulator activity, participants wear VR glasses to explore and experience a range of traffic situations from the point of view of an e-bike rider, allowing them to see how an e-bike’s speed, and unexpected situations, can influence their riding behaviour and reactions. Following the VR activity, the participants discuss with staff the risks of riding an e-bike, and receive advice on handling them effectively in real-life traffic.

    The e-bike course involves a race in which participants experience an e-bike’s speed and power in a safe setting, and a practical skills element in which participants become familiarised with maneuvering an e-bike, as well as the different difficulty levels and risks compared to traditional, non-electric bikes.

    Representatives in Utrecht of municipalities, educational and after-school facilities and other suitable events can request the free simulator and course, by emailing regina@ryd.nl.

  3. Exemption for speed pedelecs to use cycle paths in Utrecht extended

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    Source: CROW Fietsberaad

    Two years ago, a trial was launched in the Netherlands province of Utrecht, allowing speed pedelec owners to apply for an exemption, which allows them to choose to ride at a maximum of 30 km/h on cycle paths, or at a maximum of 45 km/h on roads. The scheme has now been extended for another five years.

    12 municipalities in the province are now participating, and 70% of speed pedelec owners have applied for the exemption. According the Utrecht municipality, the numbers of accidents and complaints have not increased since the exemption was introduced, despite numbers of speed pedelecs on the road having increased. The speed pedelec is seen in the province as a sustainable mobility solution, and the exemption was introduced to promote greater uptake.

    After the five-year extension, the province and municipalities will decide on any further continuation.

    Speed pedelec owners can apply for the exemption at the municipality of Utrecht, which also arranges this on behalf of the other participating municipalities: Amersfoort, Barneveld, Bunschoten, De Ronde Venen, Nijkerk, Soest, Veenendaal, Vijfheerenlanden, Wageningen, Wijk bij Duurstede and Zeist.