The Albert Koechlin Foundation (AKS) has supported a total of 37 businesses based in the cantons of Lucerne, Uri, Schwyz, Obwalden and Nidwalden in the procurement of electric cargo bikes as part of its “clever unterwegs” mobility project over the past two years, further details of which can be found in a press release issued by the charitable foundation. In March, these companies had an opportunity to share and discuss their experiences in using these environmentally friendly vehicles during a networking event organized by the AKS. “All companies are satisfied with their e-cargo bike, and some are even considering an expansion into a fleet of these bikes”, comments Andreas Merz, head of the AKS mobility project, in summing up his impressions of the event in the press release.
For the majority of businesses, from carpentry and painting companies, to bakeries and coffee roasters, all the way through to metal construction companies and retirement homes, their own logistical processes have been transformed through the use of the e-cargo bike. For example, fewer journeys were made by cars or vans, with the electric cargo bikes able to complete many journeys more flexibly, quickly and cheaply. In addition, the environmentally friendly alternative can also be used by employees yet to pass their driving test.
On average, eight trips of around 3.8 kilometers in length were carried out with the e-cargo bike per company per week. In total, the 37 electric cargo bikes have covered more than 40,000 kilometers up to now. This year, the AKS plans to support another 20 companies in purchasing an e-cargo bike. Those interested can find out more information about the details of the scheme and submit an application online.
