Cargo bikes
Cargo Bike Subsidy scheme
If your business is affiliated with one of the partners, or is based in or services customers in the area highlighted on this map, you could be eligible for subsidies. Find more information on the Bikes for Businesses webpage.
What is a cargo bike?
Cargo bikes are bicycles with a large front or rear container, and come in many shapes and sizes with two, three and four-wheeled models available. Cargo bikes often have an electric motor that can assist pedalling up to 15.5mph and allow riders to carry up to 400kg. Classed as bicycles. cargo bikes can use cycle lanes and can be operated without a driving licence.
How much subsidy is available for my business?
Businesses can receive up to £700 in subsidies. To see how much subsidy you’d receive for switching to cargo bikes, fill in the contact form.
What’s the catch?
In return for subsidies, Bikes for Business require some feedback on your cargo bike operator’s performance. They may also ask you to provide details for the creation of a case study of your business' use of cargo bikes.
What is the aim of this programme?
- to increase the use of cargo Bikes for Business deliveries
- reduce air pollution, noise pollution and carbon emissions by helping businesses switch to zero emission vehicles
- grow the market for cargo bikes by supporting the promotion of new services and identifying gaps in the market
- make the Low Line area a leading location for cargo bike use
When will the programme finish?
The programme will finish in August 2022.
What services can be delivered by cargo bike?
Cargo bikes can be used for a range of business services and product deliveries including:
- catering
- couriers
- drink suppliers
- florists
- laundry services
- petcare
- printing and design
- restaurant wholesalers
- taxi service
- tradespeople
- waste collection
Who is funding this programme?
The programme is primarily funded by Impact on Urban Health, which works to tackle complex health issues that disproportionately impact people living in urban areas. Additional funding comes from the business improvement districts Team London Bridge and Better Bankside.
My business is just outside the project area, can we still take part in the programme?
Yes, if your business services/delivers to customers in the project area, then you may be eligible for subsidies.
Why cargo bikes and other cycles?
Cycles create zero emissions while in use, help reduce congestion, are easy to park, are quiet, have lower running costs than diesel/petrol vehicles, are ULEZ compliant and often have faster delivery times.
What is the load capacity of a cargo bike?
Most cargo bikes are electric assisted, allowing them to carry heavy loads. The largest bikes in London have a maximum load capacity of 400kg.
Page last updated: 01 November 2022
