Cargo bike growth in the EU
Cargo bike use grows steadily in the EU
Electric cargo bikes are transforming urban transportation throughout the European Union (EU), providing a sustainable alternative to combustion driven transportation in cities. The rapid growth of cargo bikes and other alternatives within the market of sustainable urban mobility is driven by a combination of political support, technological advances and shifts in corporate ESG goals.
Key factors of cargo bike growth
One key driver of the uptick in cargo bike us in the EU is the strong political support both on a national and an EU level. Throughout the EU policies have been implemented that incentivise the adoption of electric cargo bikes. In Germany businesses can apply for a cargo bike grant of 3.500,- € from the government. Likewise, in France and the Netherlands there are numerous policies and grant schemes that support both the acquisition of cargo bikes as well as the investment in cycling infrastructure.
Another driver of the adoption of cargo bikes by businesses is the growth of last-mile delivery services. By the companies cargo bikes are increasingly seen as the ideal solution for urban transportation. Electric cargo bikes especially, can be more efficient and reduce the total cost of ownership when compared to a business operating with vans. Additionally, reducing the emissions of the business significantly gaining access to contracts stipulating emission reducing methods as a requirement.
Finally, the growth of cargo bikes as the primary vehicle for facility service workers and property management has opened new markets. The main reasons for the growing use of cargo bikes for light services are the same as those driving the uptake by last mile logistics companies. But plenty of service business also have a use for a vehicle that is not as intrusive as combustion driven or larger vehicles. Residential areas and pedestrian zones are much more suited to a cargo bike than a diesel van. As much as 60% of light services could be done via cargo bike by 2030.
Sales and Electric Cargo Bikes
Cargo bike sales have grown exponentially within the EU in recent years. In 2022 over 112.000 cargo bikes were sold in Europe representing a growth of 35% compared to the previous year. The growth continued into 2023 with over 120.000 cargo bikes sold. Germany is the larges European market with France and Belgium growing rapidly as well.
The increase in cargo bike sales has been driven by the increase in powerful electric cargo bikes on the market. With technological development the range and load capacity of electric cargo bikes is now adequate for many business that have operations in urban settings. The shift to electrification has been supported by the EU’s push for zero-emission in urban mobility, through funding programs such as EIT Urban Mobility.
Legislation and regulation of Electric Cargo Bikes
With the increase in the number of Electric Cargo Bikes on the market the pressure for standardization of regulations and legislations grows. Some EU countries have national safety standards in place but there are differences across borders making it difficult for manufacturers. Efforts are underway within the EU to standardize regulations on payload, motor capacity and dimensions of electric cargo bikes. This is especially important to ensure that EU manufacturers can scale production within the EU.
Crucial for the push towards standardized regulations are organizations such as Cycling Industries Europe (CIE) or the European Cyclist’s Federation. They advocate for improved cycling infrastructure in EU capitals and represent the industry to the policy makers in Brussels. They also facilitate collaboration amongst different manufacturers within the Cycling industry.
How Electric Cargo Bikes benefit businesses and society
Cargo bikes come with both environmental as well as financial benefits, particularly for businesses. By replacing vans with cargo bikes companies can avoid the costs that are associated with operating in low-emission zones, parking fees, congestion and service/maintenance fees. This reduces the overall cost of ownership of vehicles for the businesses. A cargo bike such as the Laplandar L-250 can be serviced as little as twice a year and be operational 24 hours a day.
Environmentally, cargo bikes that replace vans represent a significant reduction in emissions as well as improved air quality in densely populated cities. Reducing the carbon footprint of urban deliveries will improve not only the life quality of people in the cities but also the ESG goals and performance of the companies that employ cargo bikes in their supply chain.
The future of Cargo bikes in the EU
The future of cargo bikes in the EU is bright. The annual cargo bike sales are projected to reach above one million units annually for both commercial and private use. A growth that will be driven by the ongoing government support as well as the growing public awareness of sustainable urban mobility. The congestion of EU cities push businesses to search out more efficient means of transportation.
As the technological advancements within batteries increase the range and charging time of electric vehicles the cargo bike industry will develop into a reliable and practical solution for urban mobility. Available to anyone who has a wish to transport tools or goods without a license and a parking fee.
Laplandar Electric Cargo Bikes
With the increasing reliance on electric cargo bikes Laplandar continues to develop solutions that can be adapted to businesses of any kind. It is not only the last mile delivery and logistics businesses that can benefit from the growth of the urban mobility industry. Plumbers and electricians move in the city as well and can reduce their operating costs significantly by relying on cargo bikes. The future of Laplandar and the cargo bike industry is bright.
Laplandar is currently setting up dealers throughout Europe and building a service network. Any businesses interested in becoming a Laplandar dealer are welcome to contact us here.
