How eBikes will revolutionize last-mile delivery

What's faster in the city, eBike or van? It's probably no surprise to learn that in today's congested cities — when it comes to last-mile delivery — eBikes zoom ahead in the speed stakes.

In fact, a recent study by the climate charity Possible discovered that cargo bikes can deliver goods in London on average 1.61 times faster than vans. But it isn't just efficiency at stake: over the 98-day duration of the survey, the test bikes saved a total of 3,896kg of carbon emissions and over 5.5kg of nitrogen oxides compared to vans.

Here are some of the key reasons why fleets should switch from four wheels to two for last-mile delivery:

Cost

eBikes have lower upfront costs, maintenance expenses, and operating costs compared to traditional delivery vehicles. By incorporating eBikes into a delivery fleet, businesses can reduce overall expenses and increase profitability.

Environment

eBikes produce zero direct emissions and consume no fuel, making them an environmentally friendly alternative to gas-powered vehicles. Using eBikes in a fleet can significantly reduce your company's carbon footprint and contribute to a greener urban environment.

Speed

eBikes can go places other vehicles can't — nipping down narrow streets, along bike lanes or through parks — so they don't get held up in traffic congestion, allowing you to get your deliveries to your customers on time and meet the increasing demand for same-day delivery.

Parking

eBikes require less space for parking and storage compared to traditional delivery vehicles, reducing the need for dedicated parking areas or large warehouses. This can help businesses save on real estate costs and better use available space.

Health

eBikes for last-mile delivery encourages physical activity among delivery personnel, promoting a healthier and more active workforce. Additionally, eBikes offer electric assistance, reducing the physical strain on riders and making it a more appealing option for a wider range of employees.

Edinburgh in Scotland, a historic city with narrow streets, steep hills that is teeming with tourists, is a prime example of a city already benefitting from eBike delivery.

Farr Out Deliveries is using bikes to service the delivery needs of local businesses and reduce traffic congestion. Its founder, Alex Fitrzhowle, told HERE360: “Our delivery people, who use location navigation technology to find the quickest route with the least traffic, get the health benefits of cycling. We don't have to pay for fuel. And it's better for the planet because the carbon footprint of building a bike is negligible, compared to a truck or car. Our bikes take up less space in the city and can go door-to-door, whereas a truck will block a whole pavement and often get parking tickets."

With last-mile being the most expensive and complicated part of the delivery journey, companies that embrace eBikes can improve delivery efficiency, reduce costs and contribute to a more sustainable and environmentally friendly urban transportation system.