Ecargo bikes

An ecargo bike (also known as an electric cargo bike) is an electrically assisted bicycle, tricycle or quadricycle with a purpose-built cargo carrying capacity. The bikes come in many different shapes and sizes and can be used to transport a variety of cargo such as food, parcels or heavy goods.

What are the advantages of using an ecargo bike?

There are many advantages to using an ecargo bike when compared to a conventional petrol or diesel car or van. These include:

• zero emissions
• reduced congestion
• faster deliveries
• lower running costs
• lower purchase costs
• exemption from Low Emission Zone and Clean Air Zone charges
• a healthier and happier workforce

How much money can I save by using an ecargo bike?

Ecargo bikes have low running costs and can be much cheaper to run in comparison to vans. The average annual running cost of a small diesel van is £6,169, whereas the average annual running cost for ecargo bikes is only £295.[1]

For fleets, ecargo bikes may be a very economically efficient solution. For instance, a simulation of DHL deliveries in Berlin using ecargo bikes showed a potential cost reduction of 29% and an emissions reduction of 22% reduction in emissions.[2]

Note that the actual amount you may save using an ecargo bike will depend on multiple factors, such as your average mileage and frequency of use.

[1] Energy Saving Trust, 2020. Electrifying last mile deliveries: A guide for businesses.

[2] Zhang et al., 2018. Simulation-based Assessment of Cargo Bicycle and Pick-up Point in Urban Parcel Delivery, 2018.

How many types of ecargo bikes are there?

There are a huge variety of ecargo bike models. These can broadly be grouped into three main categories:

• two-wheel bicycles
• three-wheel tricycles
• four-wheel quadricycles

Additionally, there are also electrically assisted trailers which can be attached to standard bikes or ecargo bikes.

How much can an ecargo bike carry?

Two-wheel models are typically able to transport up to 100kg. Three or four wheeled models are typically able to transport up to 250kg.[1] This is the equivalent of roughly 80 bottles of wine for the two-wheel models and up to 200 bottles of wine for the three or four-wheel models.

Detailed information (such as volume capacity) can usually be found on the manufacturer’s websites.

[1] Transport for Quality of Life, 2019. Potential for e-cargo bikes to reduce congestion and pollution from vans in cities.

What can ecargo bikes be used for?

Ecargo bikes can be employed for a wide variety of uses, such as: delivering packages, street cleaning, park maintenance, courier services, food deliveries, trade waste collection and in last mile hubs.

In the UK, some local authorities have already begun to use ecargo bikes for internal mail distribution, transferring books between council-run libraries, delivering parking permits and as a mobile information point.

What is a last mile hub?

The ‘last mile’ refers to the movement of goods from a supplier or an out-of-town warehouse, to the final delivery address, such as offices and homes. A ‘last mile hub’ is a hub located outside a city centre where heavy goods vehicles (such as lorries) deposit cargo. This is then transferred to smaller vehicles (such as ecargo bikes) which deliver the cargo to the final destination.

Which ecargo bike should I get?

The best ecargo bike model for you depends on your needs and what the intended use of the bike is. You will need to consider what cargo you would be carrying as well as the environment the bike would be used in. Speaking to an ecargo bike retailer, manufacturer or importer could help you to identify the right bike for your requirements.

How much is an ecargo bike?

Ecargo bikes generally range between £3,000 and £12,000. Prices vary depending on the model, though two-wheel models generally tend to be cheaper than three-wheel or four-wheel models.

How can I buy an ecargo bike?

In the UK, there are three ways through which ecargo bikes can be purchased:

• UK dealers/retailers – there are a number of specialists ecargo bike retailers across the UK
• UK manufacturers/importers – these may often supply direct to users
• European manufacturers or retailers – Some European manufacturers may have distribution arrangements in the UK and will direct you to their UK retailers. Note that some manufacturers may only supply direct for larger orders

It is not usually an economic proposition to import cargo bikes from outside Europe.

A quick search using a search engine should help you to identify a manufacturer, retailer or importer who can provide you with an ecargo bike to suit your requirements.

Do I have to buy an ecargo bike or can I lease them?

Although some specialist dealers may offer leasing arrangements, the ecargo bike market is not yet well developed in this area.

The capital costs of purchasing an ecargo bike can often be made back by their low running costs. In the long-term, it may be more economically advantageous to purchase an ecargo bike rather than leasing one.

Where can ecargo bikes be ridden?

Ecargo bikes are classed as normal pedal bikes. As such, they can be ridden where pedal bikes are allowed, such as shared use paths, cycle lanes and bus lanes. However, note that riding larger three-wheel and four-wheel bikes in certain spaces (such as narrow paths) may be considered anti-social as a result of their size.

Where can ecargo bikes park?

Ecargo bikes can utilise dedicated cycle parking and, in many cases, can park on pavements where safe and appropriate. As such, when compared to vans they can provide savings through reduced parking costs.

Additionally, ecargo bikes may be able to get closer to delivery destinations than vans, as they can move through areas like narrow streets and alleyways.

What are the storage requirements for ecargo bikes?

Although ecargo bikes are weatherproof, it is a good idea to store it in a cool, dry place such as a basement, garage or shed so it is out of the elements. Storing an ecargo bike in this way can help to reduce maintenance costs. Note that due to their large size, a fleet of ecargo bikes may require a large amount of storage space.

You may also wish to register with a police-approved cycle registration scheme to promote easier recovery in the case of theft.

Is maintenance complex for ecargo bikes?

Maintenance for ecargo bikes can be carried out by a qualified service engineer who has received appropriate training. Increasingly, bike shops are supporting electric assist standard bikes and battery technology, with many reputable manufacturers offering specialist training to service engineers.

When purchasing an ecargo bike you should seek advice from the retailer on the service plan they offer.

How do you charge an ecargo bike (and how long do they take to charge)?

Ecargo bike batteries are detachable and come with a charger which can be plugged into the mains electricity network via a typical three-pin socket.

The time it takes for a battery to charge depends on the size and type of battery, but typically can take between 3.5 to 5 hours to charge fully. A single charge can typically allow for up to 50 miles of travel.

Batteries are generally small and can easily be changed out. Therefore, carrying spare batteries can allow a bike to travel longer distances than a single battery would allow.

Are ecargo bikes legally classified as bicycles?

All electric assist bikes (including ecargo bikes) are classified as bicycles if they do not exceed 15.5 miles per hour and have an electric motor output that does not exceed 250 watts.

Do ecargo bikes need to be registered, licensed, insured or taxed?

It is not a legal requirement for ecargo bikes and their riders to be registered, licensed, insured or taxed.

Is training required to ride an ecargo bike?

Training is not required for a person to ride an ecargo bike. However, appropriate training can enhance a rider’s skill. Energy Saving Trust recommends that ecargo bike riders have completed a Bikeability Level 3 training course.