Brighton & Hove residents and businesses now have access to a new green transport option following the launch of a shared electric cargo bike pilot scheme. The initiative is delivered by OurBike in partnership with Brighton & Hove City Council and the University of Brighton. This project was launched after Brighton & Hove was selected by the Department for Transport’s Active Travel England Innovation Fund.
A network of shared electric cargo bikes is currently available at key local spots, including Rotunda Café in Preston Park, Detroit Club in Kemptown, and Platform in Hove. Additional locations will join the scheme in the coming weeks, expanding the availability of these bikes across Brighton & Hove.
These e-cargo bikes are designed for practical use, capable of carrying up to two children, an adult, or bulky items such as shopping, small furniture, or business deliveries. The main goal is to provide a realistic alternative to short car journeys, thereby improving sustainable active travel options for everyday needs.
Users can hire the bikes through the OurBike mobile app, which allows them to reserve and unlock each e-bike using smart lock technology. Rental costs are set at £5 per hour or £1.25 per 15 minutes. To encourage uptake, new users receive free ride time—60 minutes for residents and 180 minutes for businesses.
Emma Hughes, General Manager at OurBike, commented on the scheme: “This pilot is about making cargo bikes a realistic option for everyday life in Brighton & Hove, not just for people who can afford to own one or store one at home. We want these bikes to feel practical, visible, and easy to use for local residents and businesses.”
She added that shared e-cargo bikes have the potential to replace many car journeys, supporting cleaner, active travel within the city.
Originally published by UKNIP.
