Amazon has introduced over 25 electric cargo bikes in Culver City, California, as part of its strategy to alleviate traffic congestion in the densely populated area. The new fleet began deliveries on Wednesday, with each e-bike capable of carrying approximately 240 packages per shift, including a single stop for replenishment.
These pedal-powered vehicles have a top speed of 12 mph and are equipped with features such as rear cameras, regenerative braking, and automatic parking brakes. Their compact size allows them to navigate bike lanes, potentially reducing the number of larger delivery trucks on city streets. The company stated that the bikes can help ease traffic, noise pollution, and overall congestion.
"They take a smaller footprint. They’re able to operate in the bike lane, and they allow our delivery service partners to hire delivery associates to their companies without driver’s licenses," said Samantha Ciccone-Strumph, Amazon senior manager of strategic programs, as cited by the New York Post.
The deployment is aligned with Amazon’s Climate Pledge, which targets net-zero carbon emissions by 2040. Delivery personnel undergo comprehensive training, including an in-person road course and a two-week period on condensed routes to familiarize them with their duties.
Electric cargo bikes are already in operation in more than 50 cities across Europe, and Burbank, California, is expected to be the next location to receive a similar fleet.