Micromobility operator Beryl will deliver the UK’s first electric cargo bike scheme in the London borough of Hackney this month.
Funded by the Mayor of London and tri-borough Zero Emissions Network, the scheme will see eight bikes made available for rent across Shoreditch, London Fields, Stoke Newington and the rest of the borough.
Each e-cargo bike is capable of carrying up to 80kg and is aimed to help residents and local businesses transport shopping, deliveries or small items of furniture in an environmentally-friendly manner.
The bikes will be available for hire through the Beryl app, with docking stations currently being installed.
Hackney is not currently part of the London e-scooter trials which have been ongoing for the past year.
Meanwhile, Beryl is operating rental e-scooter schemes in Norwich, Bournemouth and the Isle of Wight.
“For last mile deliveries or short journeys, e-cargo bikes are by far the best and often the most time efficient way to move large or heavy items,” Beryl CEO Phil Ellis said.
“By replacing vans, a network of e-cargo bikes has the potential to transform local areas making them safer and more pleasant to live and work in, due to the reduction in CO2 emissions, noise pollution and stationary motor vehicles that take up valuable space on our streets.
“We are really excited to be partnering with Hackney Council to launch this UK-first trial, which we believe will have a lasting positive impact on the community, and widen access to e-cargo bikes.
‘’Beryl has always strived to be a micromobility pioneer that offers the broadest options in an affordable and accessible way. We believe this e-cargo bike trial has the potential to show what is possible in many urban areas across the UK, as businesses and residents explore more sustainable transport options.’’
