FedEx Express, a subsidiary of FedEx Corp. (NYSE: FDX) and the world’s largest express transportation company, has introduced a fleet of thirteen e-cargo bikes to work alongside its vehicle pick-up and delivery fleet in Edinburgh, Glasgow and Cambridge.
As the company sets out to reduce emissions from its road transportation operations, the introduction of cargo bikes in urban centres is one way FedEx is seeking to make an immediate impact on carbon emissions.
FedEx has already introduced e-cargo bikes to its permanent operations in London, where they have replaced diesel vehicles for serving emissions restricted zones. Edinburgh, Glasgow and Cambridge – cities with a strong cycling culture become the next UK cities to welcome this method of zero emissions delivery.
Alun Cornish, FedEx operations managing director in Europe said: “Electric cargo bikes will fulfil a sustainable last-mile delivery solution for customers in and around Edinburgh, Glasgow and Cambridge City Centres. Earlier FedEx pilots in the cities made the case for transitioning to two wheels, proving an effective alternative to vans thanks to their ability to take shorter, faster routes. We see real potential for e-cargo bikes to complement and work alongside our motorised vehicle fleet as we strive to make zero-emissions deliveries our standard.”
FedEx aims to achieve carbon-neutral operations globally by 2040 with electrification of its pick-up and delivery vehicles being a major area of investment. In March 2021, FedEx announced its global target for 50% of all newly procured vehicles to be electric by 2025 rising to 100% of all new purchases by 2030. The roll out of e-cargo bikes is tipped to continue in UK cities beyond Edinburgh, Glasgow and Cambridge, alongside the transition to fully electric vehicles.
The sustainability benefits of delivering goods by e-cargo bike include not only reduced carbon emissions but also reduced congestion and noise. Bicycle couriers can also make use of existing road infrastructure, such as bicycle and bus lanes, and are able to find curbside parking more easily than vans – particularly in hard to access areas. The implementation of e-cargo bikes to operations in Edinburgh, Glasgow and Cambridge promotes the livability of dense urban areas as demand for deliveries continues to rise alongside the need to reduce the environmental impacts of transportation.