FedEx ups its e-cargo bike fleet to reduce carbon emissions

As the company sets out to reduce emissions from its road transportation operations, the introduction of cargo bikes in urban centres is one way FedEx is seeking to make an immediate impact on carbon emissions.

FedEx has already introduced e-cargo bikes to its permanent operations in London, where it has replaced diesel vehicles for serving emissions restricted zones. Edinburgh, Glasgow and Cambridge – cities with a strong cycling culture – become the next UK cities to welcome this method of zero-emissions delivery.

“Electric cargo bikes will fulfil a sustainable last-mile delivery solution for customers in and around Edinburgh, Glasgow and Cambridge City Centres,” commented Alun Cornish, FedEx Operations Managing Director in Europe. “Earlier FedEx pilots in the cities made the case for transitioning to two wheels, proving an effective alternative to vans thanks to their ability to take shorter, faster routes. We see real potential for e-cargo bikes to complement and work alongside our motorised vehicle fleet as we strive to make zero-emissions deliveries our standard.”

FedEx aims to achieve carbon-neutral operations globally by 2040 with electrification of its pick-up and delivery vehicles being a major area of investment. In March 2021, FedEx announced its global target for 50% of all newly procured vehicles to be electric by 2025 rising to 100% of all new purchases by 2030. The roll out of e-cargo bikes is tipped to continue in UK cities beyond Edinburgh, Glasgow and Cambridge, alongside the transition to fully electric vehicles.