Cityshuttle's 6-wheel e-cargo bike system is like a semi-truck with pedal drive

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It looks like a small semi-truck with a trailer, where the driver sits in an enclosed cab and pulls a spacious cargo trailer behind him, but instead of burning fossil fuels for energy, the Cityshuttle ePack pedals like a bicycle. This zero-emission light freight vehicle could be a key element of our low-carbon future, especially sustainable transport, and has been described as the largest cargo bike in the world.

The journey to sustainable urban mobility and logistics, especially last-mile deliveries of both packages and people, will require a variety of solutions – and multiple variations of those solutions – to be tried and assessed, as there is no magic solution. size-fits-all answer to reducing CO2 emissions and air pollution. Solutions that mimic our current successful transportation options, but are smaller and do not rely on combustion for motive power, are likely to gain the most traction.

For example, the semi-truck and trailer model, where a power unit pulls a standardized container that can be changed in minutes, has made much of modern logistics possible, albeit with a huge carbon footprint and an abundance of pollution. Replacing diesel semi-vehicles with electric versions is an effective low-carbon approach for large-scale freight transport, but what about smaller-scale transport and last-mile transport? One solution could be to use small semi-trucks and trailers that are pedal-powered but with an electric assist system, such as the ePack4 from British company Cityshuttle.

Like most cargo bikes, with a width narrow enough to fit on cycle paths, the Cityshuttle ePack can navigate city streets with ease, while also having the capacity to carry 4 cubic meters (4000 liters) of goods in the trailer transport. That's a lot of packages, and with a payload capacity of 350 kg (771 lb), the ePack seems well suited to commercial last-mile deliveries, allowing a single driver to transport and deliver a decent amount of freight without having to make a last-mile delivery have to make. large carbon debts or increasing local air pollution.

With dual 250W electric motors supporting the driver at efforts up to 25 km/h (15.5 mph), and a range of 60 to 100 km thanks to the interchangeable batteries, the ePack also features double wishbone suspension on all 6 the wheels, plus cargo-specific hydraulic disc brakes for stopping power. It also includes turn signals, headlights and taillights, brake lights and daytime running lights for general safety and visibility in traffic, while the built-in GPS tracker, CCTV, immobilizer, two locking doors and an alarm system keep the car safe. cargo also safe.

As explained in the video below, trolley units can be loaded and rolled directly into the cargo area, making trailer loading faster and more efficient. Shelving units or other storage options can also be built into the ePack. In addition, the two large QLED screens on the sides of the units enable the delivery of digital goods, namely advertising and marketing, which can help subsidize purchasing and maintenance costs.

There are no specific details on pricing and availability for the ePack currently available on the Cityshuttle websitebut it appears interested parties can email to book a demo of the units for a potential lease.

It happens that City shuttle is also ready to take on people transportation, as the company plans to launch another offering, a taxi-like ride-hailing service called GECO, in London in late 2024, and then start offering franchises of that system the following year. GECO would be able to transport two people “comfortably” in a private carriage, which will be equipped with air conditioning, Bluetooth, a folding table and an intercom to talk to the driver.

“A premier transportation service committed to providing reliable, comfortable and convenient travel. With a focus on customer satisfaction and efficiency, using cycling and road infrastructure to ensure your short ride around the city is always on time.”