Logistics depot for e-cargo bikes opens in Prague
As part of CityChangerCargoBike, the CIVITAS project focusing on cargo bikes, a new city depot for e-cargo bike parcel delivery has opened in Prague (Czech Republic).
The pilot operation in the Czech capital was launched under the name Depot.Bike
So far, seven logistics companies have joined: DHL Express, Dachser, PPL, DPD, GLS, CCCB partner MessengerCZ, and Rohlík.cz (the country’s largest online grocery store). Four more companies are planning to start delivering by cargo bike in January 2021.
The idea behind the bicycle depot is based on the need to match up with rapidly growing volumes of deliveries during the COVID-19 lockdown and the city administration’s efforts to relieve public space, especially in the city centre.
The City Council decided to implement the project in June this year, and the assignment was completed within three months. The depot is located in the centre of Prague at Florenc subway station, which used to be a private car park with space for 30 cars.
The depot also offers heated facilities for couriers, including a kitchenette, showers, a universal charging station for e-bikes, and a service station.
The pilot project will run for six months and will be evaluated regularly. There are plans to expand services in spring 2021 with a logistics hub equipped with automatic parcel lockers and pick-up points.
Doors will be open for anyone interested in e-cargo bikes. Currently over 10 different types are in operation.
If the operation is be deemed a success by logistics companies and the local authority, the city administration will consider introducing restrictions for delivery trucks in the historical centre of Prague.
The organisation of the City Depot is handled by ekolo.cz – a Czech pioneer for light electric mobility. More information and photos are available at www.depot.bike.
Find out more about CityChangerCargoBike on its website.
Author: Anna-Karina Reibold
Photo credit: Jakub Ditrich
Author: Richard Adams
