5. Cycle logistics forthe sustainable city
In the case of cycle logistics, the material infrastructure and geography and of a city are crucial if cycle logistics operations are to become economically sustainable. Narrow thoroughfares in historical city centres, e.g. Cambridge, favour the use of cargo cycles as they become the natural choice to enable accessibility. As Gnewt Cargo states, the vehicle choice comes down to the rationale for what is most convenient and feasible. While deliveries in London are made via electric van, when expanding their business to Oxford cargo cycles would most probably be the preferred transport mode as narrow streets only allow smaller-sized vehicles through. Further, Urban Consolidation Centres were identified to be the major complementary infrastructure to enable cycle logistics operators to keep the length of the journeys, and hence the delivery time, short.
With regards to the non-material infrastructure, it was the proof of delivery software that represents a particular barrier to efficiency, as major contractors insist that their sub-contractors use their bespoke ICT. Further inefficiencies emerge from the fact that subcontracting cycle logistics or low-carbon operators are not allowed to mix parcels from different larger delivery companies in one vehicle. This appears to be based on the scepticism and mistrust of the local depot manager as there has been no research if these concerns are reasonable. It has yet to be explored whether e.g. optimised real time tracking of freight could contribute to overcome this psychological barrier and at the same time prevent actual errors in delivery.
The equipment turned out to be another key factor for cycle logistics business to become a viable alternative to diesel vans, especially in the UK.The current electrically-assisted pedal cycles (EAPC) regulation limits the use of electric assistance to cargo cycles under 60 kg. Todate,thishas been a major barrier to carrying heavier loads for UK based cargo bike businesses. However, at The end of2014, theUK Department for Transport has announced a proposal to harmonise with EU regulations, which will most probably come into force by April 2015. In the UK context, this is a strong indicator that e-assist pedal cycles are acknowledged to be relevant for the national economy, helped by knowl- edge exchange withexisting pilot projects elsewhere in Europe.