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The successful funding program of the federal government for the purchase of commercially used cargo bikes has been suspended following the decision of the Federal Constitutional Court regarding the end of the Climate and Transformation Fund. As of the current information, no new applications are being approved. The German Bicycle Logistics Association e.V. warns of the end of the funding program and calls for its continued financing.
The Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Climate Action currently supports the acquisition of commercially used cargo bikes through the BAFA with up to 25% of the purchase price. This has been a key component in recent years to support the market establishment of cargo bikes in companies and has been in high demand from freelancers, craftsmen, logistics providers, and others.
“The more than 20 manufacturers of cargo bikes and trailers in our association are primarily start-ups with production numbers ranging from 100 to a few thousand units. Thus, there are currently hardly any economies of scale as seen in the automotive industry. For competitive prices and market ramp-up, the funding is essential. Otherwise, many young, innovative companies, their suppliers, and service providers face extinction,” warns Tom Assmann, Chairman of the Bicycle Logistics Association.
Current funding program ends in February 2024
The current funding program will end in February 2024. In recent months, there have been very positive signals from the ministry regarding the continuation, which also raised hopes for an expansion to include leasing support. This has already been positively received by the industry and interpreted as a strong signal for more climate protection and transformation towards a sustainable economy. “We therefore demand that the amendment takes place and that, as planned, the cargo bike funding continues from March 2024,” demands Jonas Kremer, Head of Policy of the German Bicycle Logistics Association.
Photo: © Radlogistikverband/ONOMOTION
