City logistics is experiencing a transformative shift toward greater sustainability and efficiency. The environmental impact of conventional delivery methods and increasing urbanization has driven the search for alternative, eco-friendly transportation solutions. Among these, electric cargo bikes (e-CB) have emerged as a promising option for reducing carbon emissions and alleviating congestion.
This new article examines the potential of electric cargo bikes in urban delivery services through empirical data analysis, route optimization, and simulation in Pardubice, Czech Republic. The findings highlight the strategic advantages of integrating electric cargo bikes with urban logistics hubs to enhance last-mile delivery efficiency. By offering valuable insights for city authorities, logistics operators, and policymakers, this research contributes to the advancement of sustainable urban freight transport. Green freight initiatives are based on five main conflicts: emissions reduction versus operational efficiency, technology scalability, urban space utilization, regulatory balance, and Triple Access Planning integration (integrating physical, digital, and spatial access).
Furthermore, by establishing a robust framework for deploying electric cargo bikes in medium-sized cities, this study emphasizes the role of innovative and sustainable solutions in reshaping urban logistics. The findings underscore the potential of e-CB to significantly reduce carbon emissions, traffic congestion, and operational costs (unfortunately, this study, like many, did not take hub cost into account), thus improving urban livability and environmental sustainability.
The results align with global sustainability objectives, ultimately improving urban livability and fostering more efficient freight systems. The study highlights the synergy between SULP and the business strategies of logistics operators, underscoring the importance of collaborative efforts to achieve sustainable urban logistics.
Although this study offers valuable insights, it is essential to note that its focus on a mid-sized city might not apply perfectly to larger metropolises or smaller towns. Furthermore, while the study provides a robust framework for e-CB optimization, future research should explore integrating emerging technologies, such as AI-driven demand forecasting and autonomous delivery systems, to further enhance sustainability and efficiency.