At a time when customer demand for same-day service and delivery is increasing, alongside expectations of sustainability, light electric freight vehicles such as electric cargo bikes (otherwise known as e-cargo bikes) are an appealing option to many businesses.

E-cargo bikes fill the gap between traditional bicycles and delivery vans, and are a perfect option for transporting work equipment, light freight or completing 'last-mile' deliveries. With electric pedal assistance they have the capability and power for transporting significant loads with the benefit of being able to move freely through congested areas, avoid parking tickets and truly achieve a door-to-door service.

E-cargo bikes are easy to charge, with removable batteries that can be plugged into any ordinary wall socket. Charging generally takes around 4 - 8 hours, depending on the size of the charger, and most bikes will be able to provide at least 20 miles from a single charge, although many can achieve much more than this. Exact mileage depends on a number of factors, including weight of load and the terrain, but even if the battery does run flat the bikes are still able to be used normally without the electric assistance.

Anyone can ride an electric cargo bike regardless of fitness; whether you are a regular cyclist or have not ridden a bike in a while. They can be used anywhere, both on and off road and on rough or cobbled surfaces, and can make tackling that steep hill a breeze.

Try out an e-cargo bike for your business

With so many kinds of e-cargo bikes to choose from, its understandable that businesses might like to trial a bike to see how it could complement and fit in with their existing methods.

Funding under the Aberdeen Low Emission Zone (LEZ) project has allowed Nestrans to secure six ecargo bikes for offer, for a free loan agreement to business and organisations across Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire.

The bikes include four Christiania e-cargo trikes and two Riese and Müller Load 60 e-cargo bikes, and will be supplied with a lockable cargo box which can be branded for the business.

In addition all the necessary lights, locks and safety equipment required will be provided as part of the trial. Training will also be offered to ensure that riders are confident in using the bikes before starting the trial.

If you are interested, please read the applicant guidance to check details and eligibility before applying. The guidance also includes detailed information on both bike types to help you decide which is best for your business. You can also click on the pictures below to be directed to the manufacturers sites for more information. For any queries, please send us an email.

Here, there and everywhere!

Our cargo bikes have been out and about across the North East, involved in all sorts of things. Read how other organisations have been making use of the free trial and finding out how the bikes fit in with their work.