Businesses Offered Free E-Cargo Bike Trials to Boost Green Deliveries

Southampton City Council has launched a new initiative aimed at transforming the way local businesses deliver goods—by offering free trials of e-cargo bikes for up to three months.

The project, known as RIDES, is designed to support delivery-based businesses in Southampton and Eastleigh who are looking to reduce their environmental impact while cutting transport costs. The scheme offers businesses the chance to explore cleaner, more efficient delivery methods without any upfront investment.

With the ability to carry up to 100 kilograms, e-cargo bikes are proving to be a practical alternative to vans and cars—especially in urban areas prone to congestion. The bikes are electric-assisted, making them easy to use, even over longer distances or with heavy loads.

Southampton City Council believes e-cargo bikes offer a genuine solution to the challenges many businesses face today, including rising fuel costs, delivery delays, and growing expectations around environmental responsibility. Through RIDES, the Council is making it easy for local companies to trial these benefits risk-free.

The Council is encouraging businesses in sectors such as food delivery, floristry, print and parcel services to get involved. By adopting e-cargo bikes, businesses could not only reduce emissions and operational costs, but also demonstrate their commitment to sustainability—something increasingly valued by customers.

The benefits of e-cargo bikes include:
• Reduced fuel and maintenance costs
• Improved delivery times in busy city areas
• Fun, smooth riding experience for staff
• Lower carbon footprint

The RIDES programme is funded as part of Southampton’s wider sustainability efforts and supports the city’s goals for reducing transport emissions and improving air quality.

Interested businesses can contact the RIDES team at RIDES@southampton.gov.uk or visit Southampton City Council’s website for more information.