Delivering the future: Mechelen’s cargobike subsidy program.
About this good practice
The EU project Cyclelogistics analysed the potential of cyclelogistics and this study showed that 32% of all goods can be delivered with a cargobike. In Mechelen not many deliveries were done with cargobikes. A cargobike doesn’t have to take into account the timeframes for deliveries. It creates more traffic safety in comparison with a van or a truck. And on top of that a cargobike is a zero-emission vehicle. Enough arguments for Mechelen to organise a subsidy program to motivate entrepeneurs to switch to the use of a cargobike. Entrepreneurs in Mechelen could apply for a subsidy when buying a cargobike. The subsidy covered only half of the spent amount with a limit of 5.000 €.
55 entrepeneurs were subsidised over 4 years.
The subsidy is meant for ‘any activity that is being performed with an (electric) (cargo)bike’. This includes electric bikes that have an electric support until 25 km/h. Electric scooters and speed pedelecs are not included.
The delivery by cargobike has to take place within a maximum of 12 months as from the date the application for funding is approved and communicated.
To receive the funding, the applicant has to deliver the following documents 12 months after the approval:
- Bills/invoices or any other financial proof of purchase
- Proof of the number of deliveries via for example the number of rides or receipts
- An evaluation sheet (incl. course of the project, reached results …)
The company has to operate in Mechelen.
Resources needed
2018 : 33.764 €
2019: 25.696 €
2020: 23.878 €
2021: 15.000 €
This is the subsidy budget. It decreased year after year, because the market of cargobikes became more mature and is in less need of subsidy. We always had applications enough.
Evidence of success
This was a good practice to encourage cyclelogistics. We received a total of 55 applications and they were all rewarded with a subsidy. We see it also in the streets of Mechelen that there is more use of the cargobike.
Potential for learning or transfer
The subsidy scheme is available in English and can be replicated in any other European city.
Associated challenges are:
- Persuade the political level of the need
- Find the needed budget
- Persuade entrepreneurs in your city (people mostly don’t like change)
Further information
Good practice owner
You can contact the good practice owner below for more detailed information.
