FedEx has started using electric cargo bike fleets in British cities such as London, Edinburgh, Glasgow and Cambridge (pictured). Image courtesy of FedEx
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When it comes to the last-mile logistics electrification strategy for the next decade, two or three wheels may be as important as four wheels.
Although electric bicycles did not receive much attention during the COP26 negotiations last month - which annoyed some sustainable mobility advocates - it was they who found more popular ones in living rooms and garages around the world in 2021. Home year. An analysis released by Business Research in mid-November estimated that global electric bicycle sales this year were 36.5 billion U.S. dollars, a compound annual growth rate of more than 12% over 2020. The market research company's revenue may reach 53.3 billion U.S. dollars in the forecast within three years.
This is happening all the time organically, because climate-conscious and budget-conscious people are looking for alternatives to a car-dependent lifestyle. A little-known climate-related incentive included in the BBB legislation in the United States provides a 30% tax credit for purchases of electric bicycles for individuals with an annual income of no more than US$75,000, up to a maximum of US$900. The proposal covers models with a price tag of $4,000 or less.
According to calculations touted by California Congressman Jimmy Panetta, the main legislative supporter of this idea, if electric bicycles handle many short trips—especially commuting—currently driven by cars, it will reduce it by 12 % Of emissions.
By the way, another incentive included in the BBB is the return of a benefit that allows employers to provide up to $81 a month for workers who ride bicycles to work—those who ride bicycles often rather than occasionally. The previous subsidy of up to $20 per month was cancelled during the Trump administration.
Although proponents of electric bicycles generally talk about the benefits to individuals and commuters, this form also holds great promise for last-mile delivery, especially in tricycles or four-wheelers that can be powered by pedals or batteries (why not What?) A practical alternative to trucks in urban environments.
For example, FedEx began to use electric cargo bike fleets in British cities such as London, Edinburgh, Glasgow and Cambridge. What these places have in common is: a traffic culture that already supports cycling, and narrow streets that are difficult to negotiate with large vehicles. They have two major advantages: easier access to parking options (including in loading areas), and the right to use special bike lanes when available.
Alun Cornish, Managing Director of FedEx Express European Operations, said: “Early FedEx pilots in cities put forward a reason for the transition to two wheels. Because they can use shorter and faster routers, they prove to be an effective alternative to trucks. Products.” “As we strive to make zero emissions our standard, we see the real potential of electric cargo bikes that can complement and work with our motor vehicles.”
A study by the University of Westminster showed that electric cargo bikes can be delivered 60% faster than trucks, generate 90% less carbon dioxide than diesel trucks, and 33% less than electric trucks. Between 2018 and 2020, approximately 100,000 electric cargo bikes will occupy a place in delivery fleets across Europe.
In the United States, DHL Express has been testing electric cargo bikes in Miami—each bike weighs about 400 pounds (or 60 cubic feet), and they are considered one-to-one exchanges with trucks. DHL's partner is Reef Technology, the largest provider of mobile and logistics centers in North America.
DHL has been experimenting with the idea of "cycle" since 2015; it has tried four rounds of "Cubicycle" in the New York metropolitan area, Belgium, the Netherlands, Germany, Hong Kong, Singapore and other countries and regions. Cubicycle uses reclining seats with electric assist devices specifically for climbing hills. It is equipped with GPS and is powered by solar panels. In November, the company began testing home delivery services for items that require special handling. "Bicycles" manufactured by EAV can handle up to seven or eight deliveries a day, and can travel 40 miles on a single charge.
In November 2021, DHL began testing home delivery services for items that require special handling. "Bicycles" are manufactured by EAV. Image courtesy of DHL
No logistics giant believes that bicycles are the ultimate goal of last mile delivery. Rider/driver safety and other very real issues deserve more attention than them.
But the use of bicycles has increased significantly during the pandemic, the availability of more product options (although my friends can attest that supply chain issues may prevent this), the noise and traffic advantages of urban communities and the establishment of more bicycles in big cities The lanes are driving wider use in 2022. This is definitely a trend that the GreenBiz team will focus on in the next 12 months.
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