It’s part of the Steps to Zero strategy to reduce our average carbon emissions per parcel in the UK to 50gCO2e.
Our latest trial is in Oxford, to assess an electrically assisted Cargo quadricyle - the ‘EAV 2cubed+’.
The EAV 2cubed+ is British made close to Oxford Delivery Office, in Upper Heyford, and developed by engineers with motorsport and automotive backgrounds. It’s also used by other carriers such as DPD and Ocado.
It’s pedal assisted but the effort is minimal as there is a motor to provide assistance.
The trial in Oxford began because of a very specific problem, posed by major work in Oxford city centre.
Mark Riley, delivery process and equipment design manager explains: ‘The main route under the railway between the West and Centre of Oxford City will be closed for around 15 months (April – October 23 and March – October 24) to replace a mainline rail bridge.
‘The alternative road option adds significant mileage and cost.
‘We’ve worked with Oxford City Council to gain agreement for Royal Mail to use the pedestrian tunnel under the railway, if we use sub-vehicle categories such as e-Cargo bikes and the micro-electric vehicle alternatives and agree to travel at walking speed through the tunnel.
‘This enables us to more quickly and efficiently cover five duties on delivery and collections, without the excessive detour we would otherwise have had to factor into the delivery day plan – and give us more direct access to the area.’
As well as the eCargo bikes, the fleet team also relocated some Micro Electrics Vans to Oxford.
‘The challenge gives us the opportunity to test this cycle type of vehicle on delivery and understand its advantages and limitations, so we can also determine its suitability in our overall vehicle mix,’ added Mark.
Posties in Oxford have praised the innovation.
Peter Thompson (Ozzy) said: ‘I don’t know why we haven’t used these before. I don’t get sore knees when using it and its extremely easy to pedal. A really positive move, they work really well.’
Matthew Emptage added: ‘This is perfect for Oxford, close to the city centre, with future vehicle restrictions this type of vehicle would be perfect.’
