PRO-E-BIKE project promotes electric bicycles for delivery of goods among private and public bodies.
PRO-E-BIKE was IEE funded project (running from 2013-2016, with 9 partners from 7 countries, coordinated by Croatian partner EIHP).
The actions were directed towards E-bike market uptake and promotion of policies that stimulate the usage of E-bikes in urban transport. Therefore, project aims for a change in behaviour of target groups in urban areas manifested in their decision to replace their conventionally fuelled vehicles with E- bikes. The project enabled the purchase of e-bikes and their testing within private and public companies that primarily deal with the delivery of goods.
The coordination partner in first phase theoretically explains to potential user the benefits that could be achieved by switching to e-bikes. Furthermore, the coordinator makes test e-bikes available to the user and performs detailed monitoring of the test phase. Finally, the coordinator together with the user compares technical and economic indicators in relation to the existing system and conducts a cost-effectiveness study based on which the user decides whether to make the transition.
Testing of e-bikes in 25 pilot companies (in duration of 6 to 12 months) was enabled, with the aim of increasing their use and investment in such vehicles.
All 25 companies provided experience data during testing including business analysis.
Part of the companies decided to replace their portfolio of conventional scooters. In addition, an example of their good practice was presented to other stakeholders.
Resources needed
A prerequisite for the implementation of pilot is the purchase of test e-bikes. Companies participating in the program should have detailed information on the existing fleet and should monitor the performances and rides of e-bikes. This is a prerequisite for an economic comparison study to be made.
Evidence of success
Most of the companies were satisfied with the results of the test phase and continue to use bicycles. For example Croatian Post started the testing of 3 types of electric bicycles in June 2014. As a result, in 2015 they made a replacement of 180 conventional scooters in urban areas with electric delivery bikes. Procurement of electric bicycles worth EUR 500k was co-financed by the Croatian Fund for Environmental Protection and Energy Efficiency in the amount of EUR150k.
Potential for learning or transfer
The project can be very easily replicated in any geographical area. It is necessary to include companies engaged in the delivery of light vehicles, such as scooters. Ideally, the national or regional administration should accompany the project by co-financing test electric bicycles.
Tags: Electromobility
