August 6, 2021 - Electric cargo bikes deliver about 60% faster than vans in city centres, according to a new study by the Active Travel Academy at the University of Westminster reports The Guardian.

Ersilia Verlinghieri, the lead author of the report, says bikes had a higher average speed and dropped off 10 parcels an hour, compared with six for vans.

The e-cargo bikes also cut carbon emissions by 90% compared with diesel vans, and by a third compared with electric vans. Air pollution, which is still at illegal levels in many urban areas, was also significantly reduced. Other research has shown that e-cargo bikes are more cost-effective as well.

To cut carbon emissions the UK government recently announced a 30% rise in funding to make cycling and walking easier. Verlinghieri adds that they should cut the VAT rate on cargo bike deliveries and allow more powerful e-bikes to be used.

Read the full report here.