Boosted by pedal and solar power, e-Trikes could reduce CO2 emissions in urban areas.
#RoyalMail is conducting its first ever trial of #zeroemission e-Trikes for letter and parcel deliveries later this month. The trial is an example of the company’s efforts to continue to reduce CO2 emissions associated with its operations.
The 1200 mm wide x 1968 mm high e-Trikes – which are predominantly powered by a combination of pedal, solar, battery and brake technology – are specially designed to help postmen and women to deliver letters and parcels in a secure and environmentally friendly way.
The trial is scheduled to begin in late March. It will take place in Stratford (East London), Cambridge and Sutton Coldfield, and will last for approximately six months. Once the trial period has ended, Royal Mail will make a decision on whether to expand the trikes more widely across the UK.
The #trikes are able to accommodate letters, cards and the majority of parcels, and are designed for use on roads, highways and some cycle paths. Deliveries on the e-Trikes will operate as part of a usual delivery pattern on suitable routes.
For larger parcels and deliveries at particularly busy periods, special delivery arrangements will be made, as they for current methods.
Pedals assisted by a 250 W electric motor power the e-Trikes. The motor itself is operated by a 48 V lithium battery, which is recharged by mains power and supplemented by two solar panels positioned on top of the vehicle. Regenerative braking also helps to power the trike.
With the UK's largest ‘Feet on the Street’ network of 90,000 postmen and women, Royal Mail already plays a key role in keeping carbon emissions low.
David Gold, director of public affairs and policy at Royal Mail, said: ‘As a company, we are committed to making changes to our operations which reduce our environmental impact, whilst ensuring we continue to meet customer expectations. Alongside our ongoing transformation program and the introduction of electric vans in locations across our business, this trial is part of a programme of initiatives across our business that will ensure we can continue to deliver letters and parcels safely, efficiently and responsibly.’
Will Norman, London’s walking and cycling commissioner, said: ‘I am delighted that Royal Mail is trialling e-Trikes which will take polluting vehicles off our streets – helping to reduce congestion and clean up London’s toxic air. I hope this trial will be extended and other delivery companies follow Royal Mail’s lead so that many more communities can benefit.’