Cargo bike delivery pilot targets urban
logistic challenges
MISSISSAUGA, ON, Oct. 31, 2017 /CNW/ - (NYSE:UPS) UPS Canada is
using a custom-made cargo bike to deliver packages in and around
the York University campus, as part of
a pilot program to test the potential of delivery by bike in the
City of Toronto. The success and
learnings from this pilot will determine UPS Canada's strategy for
delivery by bicycle on a larger scale, in Toronto and potentially other cities across
Ontario and Canada.
UPS unveiled the cargo bike last week at Nathan Phillips Square,
where Toronto Mayor John Tory celebrated UPS Canada's innovation in
developing environmentally sustainable delivery methods.
"UPS has a significant presence in Toronto and with innovative solutions like
more deliveries being made by bike, this is a step forward in the
right direction for courier companies working with the city on
easing congestion," Mayor Tory said.
UPS drivers using the pedal-powered bikes are showcasing UPS
Canada's initiative to bring sustainable practices and services to
the City of Toronto.
"The current pedal-powered model is the first step toward what
we hope will become a viable model for urban deliveries," says
Aylin Lusi, vice president of public
affairs, UPS Canada. "Our goal is to test deliveries with e-assist
bicycles; however, provincial regulations limit the ability to do
so today. We hope to work with the government to explore new ways
to bring efficient and sustainable delivery solutions to our
communities."
The bike is 2.8 metres long and 1.2 metres wide. Without
packages, the bike weighs 217 kg and has a payload capacity of 408
kg. Depending on the size of the packages, the bike can hold up to
50 parcels. Safety features include a lockable, rear cargo door
which opens 90 degrees to eliminate the obstruction of view for
traffic around the bike, headlights, tail lights, turn signals,
side markers and hazard lights. The lights are powered by a solar
panel on the roof. The bike is equipped with adjustable side-view
mirrors and a polycarbonate safety windshield with a windshield
wiper.
"The cargo bike joins a growing alternative fuel and advanced
technology fleet," says Craig
Rayner, vice president of automotive, UPS Canada. "We have
over 2,880 delivery vehicles, tractors and shifters in Canada, more than 40 per cent of which operate
with alternative fuel."
Those who spot the cargo bike can tweet a picture @UPS_Canada
with the hashtag #TOcargobike.
About UPS
UPS (NYSE) is a global leader in logistics,
offering a broad range of solutions transporting packages and
freight; facilitating international trade, and deploying advanced
technology to more efficiently manage the world of business. UPS is
committed to operating more sustainably – for customers, the
environment and the communities we serve around the world.
Learn more about our efforts at ups.com/sustainability.
Headquartered in Atlanta, UPS
serves more than 220 countries and territories worldwide. The
company can be found on the web at ups.com and its corporate
blog can be found at longitudes.ups.com. To get UPS news
direct, follow @UPS_Canada on Twitter.
SOURCE UPS Canada Ltd.