Spotlight on former operations

Jonathan, a carpenter and local business owner, received his Carbon Neutral Funded Omnium electric cargo bike in July 2023. Since then he has covered over 3700 km (2299 miles) and he loves using it for local jobs. 

Photograph of cargo bike on the beachfront

One of Jonathan’s main reasons for using it is to improve his health, both physically and mentally. Jonathan says using his bike for work is far more enjoyable for travelling around town than using a van, and it’s good for his spirits.

Another big reason for using his cargo bike is the time saved. Jonathan highlights that travelling by van from one side of town to another can add over an hour to his working day, especially during peak hours.

Using his ecargo bike, Jonathan feels that it helps to destress after a busy work day. Plus, using it for local jobs, parking is not an issue. In the past when he used his van, he received parking fines as he couldn’t find spaces close enough to clients' properties.   

His cargo bike can carry a variety of tools and equipment due to the Omnium’s versatility and extending front shelf. The biggest tool he’s carried on it is a mitre saw.

Model image of an Omnium cargo bike
“Using the cargo bike certainly has its benefits and it’s a good conversation starter. I’ve even got some leads from it since I got it. Also, if I need a break from the work, riding the cargo bike can help de-stress. Riding it clears my head.”

Action taken 

Jonathan found out about Brighton & Hove City Council's eCargo Bike Accelerator Project in January 2023. While it took a little while to get hold of, he hasn’t looked back since he received it.

While Jonathan uses his cargo bike mainly for local jobs in Brighton & Hove, he has taken it as far as Shoreham and Lancing for work.

“Using the cargo bike is great but it's not going to totally replace my van. You’ve got to be realistic about what you can and can’t do with it. I’ve talked with other traders about using cargo bikes for work and they think it’s a great idea and can see its value.”

Outcome  

Due to Brighton & Hove City Council’s ecargo bike project, Jonathan saves time and finds it a great way to travel for work in the city, whilst not adding to congestion on the roads.

“Using the cargo bike makes life much easier.”

The positives of using the bike include:

  • it averages approximately 330 km per month
  • it's easy to use and saves time
  • it's easy and free to park
  • it helps de-stress from a busy day

Switching to cargo bikes reduces the environmental and social impact of deliveries and services in our cities. This contributes towards Brighton & Hove City Council’s Carbon Neutral 2030 goal.

Considering cargo bikes 

If you're considering using cargo bikes, we can help. Through the eCargo Bike Accelerator Project, businesses can get expert, impartial advice about cargo bikes for free. Visit the website below to see how cargo bikes can help your business or get in touch.

To see how cargo bikes can help your business: