Electric cargo (e-cargo) bikes have superior carrying capacity compared to conventional bicycles. Consequently, both scholars and policymakers have proposed that e-cargo bikes might be the answer to realizing car-free living. This study aims to identify their potential to replace car-use from the user’s, the manufacturer’s and the city’s perspective. Two versions of an e-cargo bike concept, equipped with weather protection, were field tested across four professional organizations in Gothenburg, Sweden. In short, the data show that the demonstrated e-cargo bikes can replace certain car travel. Still, this modal shift seems contingent to strong organizational and managerial support.
This research project is financed by the Swedish Energy Agency and supported by the City of Gothenburg.