The Cargobike from Bio-Hybrid – an Alternative for the Last Mile

The Bio Hybrid in its Cargo version is an alternative transport solution that combines the advantages of Pedelec bicycles – electric assistance, low parking space requirements, great maneuverability – with the safety and comfort of a compact four-wheeled vehicle with a roof.

(Nuremberg, 05.03.2020) Online retail continues to boom with a double-digit annual growth rate. Each German received an average of 24 packages per year recently. According to a forecast by the Federal Association of Parcel & Express Logistics (BIEK), the volume of packages is expected to increase by a total of 5.2 percent per year to 4.43 billion shipments in 2023 (see infographic). Stop-and-go in city traffic. Metal caravans here, congested streets there. Delivery drivers who can no longer find parking and are forced to park in the second row just to deliver their goods. Everyday life in German cities.

It is almost logical that modern city logistics needs a mobile transformation. The courier, express, and parcel service industry (KEP) urgently requires alternative forms of mobility. Smaller, more agile, and as environmentally friendly solutions as possible.

In this context, it is interesting to note that forecasts from the Institute for Transport Research of the German Aerospace Center (DLR) predict that up to 22.6 percent of commercial traffic from motor vehicle transport could be shifted to emission-free cargobikes. A prediction that would not only benefit traffic decongestion but also the attractiveness and quality of life in German city centers.

The Bio-Hybrid in its Cargo version is such an alternative transport solution that expands the advantages of Pedelec bicycles – electric assistance, low parking space requirements, great maneuverability – with the safety and comfort of a compact four-wheeled vehicle with a roof.

Olli the bicycle courier tested the Bio-Hybrid for a day in Munich. Across the city. On the bike path. On the road. During rush hour. He was accompanied by a video camera: https://youtu.be/hv2JoWp52YM

For Olli, the Bio-Hybrid is a “perfect vehicle”: “Even when I have to transport a lot, I have a large loading area where I can take many things.” The Bio-Hybrid is designed for a payload of up to 200 kg*. In combination with urban micro-storage facilities – so-called Micro Hubs – which are increasingly emerging, it is a sensible logistics solution for the last mile.”

Thanks to the electric assistance, Olli effortlessly rode through the city. What the test day clearly showed: The tedious search for parking is eliminated. With the Bio-Hybrid, you can ride past traffic jams on the bike path and park directly in front of the customer’s door.

Photo/Graphic: Schaeffler Bio-Hybrid GmbH

https://www.biohybrid.com/de