Amazon is trying to change the way it delivers packages. The e-commerce giant is testing delivery by cargo bike to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and be more efficient in big cities.
Amazon announces that it will launch cargo bike delivery with a first test phase in London. Also, the giant says it wants to deliver the packages on foot. The long-term goal is to replace vans and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Remember, however, that avoiding ordering products from the other side of the world on Amazon also means limiting these emissions.
Special cargo bikes
Unlike the cargo bikes we know, those from Amazon have not three, but four wheels. Eventually, they look like a pickup truck with an electric drivetrain. Delivery personnel have a cycling position and must pedal to operate the motor. A priori, most of the energy is provided by the engine and not by the driver.
Amazon plans to start trials of these e-bikes in Hackney, east London. They will be used by the delivery partners of the e-commerce site. Amazon says they will join a fleet of electric vehicles that make 5 million deliveries a year.
A suitable solution for metropolitan areas
These small vehicles are limited to 25 km / h, which will not be so handicapping as that in large cities which often have a lot of traffic. They can squeeze through traffic more easily, especially since they can ride on bike paths and not just on the road. Also, it must be admitted that these vehicles are quieter than the trucks we know and help reduce air pollution.
Jeff Bezos’ company also says it wants to test parcel deliveries on foot, without saying more. A delivery on foot that you can avoid if you subscribe to Amazon Prime, since thanks to the EU it is now easier to cancel your subscription.
It’s not the only company with an interest in cargo bikes; at Eurobike 2022, Ouca Bikes presented a model that will be able to carry up to eight people.
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