Ken Hawkins

Taken from the SMBC website:

Groups in Solihull are being given the opportunity to try out innovative e-cargo bikes as part of a free borough-wide trial.  Solihull Council is hosting a trial day for people to test the electric bikes and learn more about how they can be used to provide a greener and more sustainable form of transportation.

Four types of e-cargo bikes are available to lease for free on a trial basis, with each providing easy access storage spaces with capacity to carry up to 200kg including the rider.

Me on the e-cargo bike – a great piece of kit and so easy to ride.

The trial day takes place on Wednesday 30 October, between 2-3pm, at Tudor Grange Park cycle track, with members of the Council’s sustainable travel team on hand to answer questions. It is free to attend and no booking is required.

Solihull Council’s Cabinet Portfolio Holder for Environment and Infrastructure, Cllr Ken Hawkins, said:

“Transport is the biggest single source of emissions in Solihull, meaning we all need to reflect on our journey patterns and travel more sustainably.

“These e-cargo bikes are a great practical, sustainable and low-cost alternative to petrol or diesel-powered vehicles and can be used by businesses and groups for a variety of uses – whether moving goods and equipment, to making deliveries.

“As well as supporting the Council’s commitment to clean air and carbon reduction and helping in the fight against climate change, they also offer a chance for people to embed active travel in their operations whilst enjoying the well-known health and wellbeing benefits cycling brings. 

“The trial day is a fantastic opportunity for those interested to chat to our knowledgeable team and learn more about how they can start using the e-cargo bikes themselves.”

The e-cargo bikes can travel up to 40 miles on a single charge to make pedalling with a load easy. All bikes are compliant with UK Electrically Assisted Pedal Cycle (EAPC) regulations which means they can be ridden like an ordinary bicycle, while they do not require a driving licence, MOT, road tax or specific motor insurance.

Solihull Council can also provide accredited e-cargo bike training.