Since their introduction almost two years ago, Bedford’s eCargo Bikes have racked up over 1,800km and saved approximately 200kg of CO2.
The six eCargo bikes, funded by the Department of Transport, are used by several council teams and Flamme Rouge, saving approximately 200kg of CO2 compared to using a van for the same journeys.
The bikes are used weekly by the Council’s Sustainable Transport Team to transport materials to schools and run events. The Council’s Parks and Open Spaces and Tree Inspection Teams have it easier to access the majority of their sites via bike rather than car and one eCargo bike has been well used by Flamme Rouge to collect supplies and to run mobile Dr Bike sessions.
Green Party councillor, Lucy Bywater, said: “It’s really good to know the Council’s eCargo bikes are being made good use of.
“There’s a lot of scope for many more of these across a lot of council departments with the multiple benefits of low-cost, low-carbon travel, reducing congestion and quick, easy access to sites.
“This is one way in which the Council can lead by example and help further by creating the right infrastructure.
“I look forward to seeing different sorts of e-bikes become the norm in Bedford, not just for Council use but for many local businesses and individuals too who see the advantages.
On Tuesday 15 November at Elstow Park And Ride, a range of electric vehicles including eCargo bikes will be available for local businesses to come along to take a look and speak with people that use them.
