Last mile delivery by electric cars and cargo bikes in urban areas

By project RESOLVE

Published on 24 July 2019

Slovenia

Vzhodna Slovenija

About this good practice

In the city centre of Maribor (especially in the pedestrian zone), where shop keepers and restaurant owners need urgently goods to be delivered during the day (10.00–20.00) only electric cars of the Post Office are allowed to deliver.
A social enterprise was established and provides last-mile delivery services to grocers and retailers throughout the city center of Maribor by cargo bikes which are fast and reliable.

Expert opinion

Many regions are aiming to reduce motor vehicle access to city centres in order to improve access for pedestrians and cyclists. This can, however, have negative impacts for businesses. This good practice is a replicable example for how to minimise disruption to business value chains whilst also supporting low carbon transport, and can be examined as a case study by other regions.

Simon Hunkin

Works at Interreg Europe Policy Learning Platform

Resources needed

Delivery companies had to adapt and cover the financial resources to purchase environmental friendly vehicles.

Evidence of success

There is less traffic during the day in the pedestrian zone, the retail sector and delivery service organizes more efficiently the delivery. With the measure low carbon strategy is carried out.

Potential for learning or transfer

The surveys and adapting process were important for all stakeholders: Municipality of Maribor, delivery companies, Cargo bike delivery social enterprise, retail stores, restaurants.