E-cargo bike trial for businesses in Bristol 

City council launches trial to encourage local companies to switch to cleaner, more sustainable transport and delivery. 

Electric cargo bikes are designed with storage space to carry goods and have an electric, emissions-free motor to support the cyclist. That makes such cargo bikes a green alternative to petrol and diesel vehicles. The new Bristol scheme, paid for through the Clean Air Zone Freight Consolidation fund from the Joint Air Quality Unit (JAQU), aims to help them decide whether an e-cargo bike is right for their business.

Promotion for the e-cargo bike trial, photo courtesy of Bristol City Council

In fact, those taking part in the scheme can try several different types of e-cargo bike, with seven different types of bike available, with varying load capacities and seating options. 

• See the full range of models available and register interest in the e-cargo bike trial on the council website. 

The Bristol scheme is open to sole traders, small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), charities, voluntary sector organisations and community interest companies (CICs) based in the city. Such organisations must have public and product liability insurance of at least £5m, and provide insurance for any member of staff riding a hired e-bike, to cover theft and damage. 

Bikes are loaned out for between one and three months. Bristol City Council arranges all the accessories and maintenance, though there is a small admin fee plus a refundable deposit of £200.  

Organisations that sign up are also offered two hours of free training provided by a Lifecycle bike instructor – covering the level 2 and 3 cycling course. 

Cllr Don Alexander, Cabinet Member for Transport, says: ‘I welcome the launch of this new scheme, which gives businesses and organisations the chance to try out an e-cargo bike. We all have a part to play in getting clean air for Bristol. 

‘The trial aims to raise awareness of e-cargo bikes and make a positive impact across the city by helping to reduce pollution caused by traffic, improve the city’s air quality and cut congestion. 

It’s a further chance for people to see that there are real alternatives to driving and that switching to sustainable transport couldn’t be easier, with an affordable range of e-cargo bikes available. 

‘The e-cargo bike trial complements the free electric van loan scheme we launched last year, which has received a high level of interest and positive feedback from the businesses that have taken part.’