The eCargo bike used by multi-award winning Brighton Gin has achieved a landmark number of miles for deliveries around the city.
The eCargo bike has clocked up 2000 miles since coming into regular delivery service for Brighton Gin in late August 2020 as part of the council’s eCargo Bike Accelerator Project. It has effectively replaced the van they were using for local deliveries, saving on time and reducing carbon emissions, and helping them on their goal to become carbon neutral.
Using an electric-assisted motor, the bike can easily navigate some of the city’s hillier areas and can also reach places where cars are restricted.
Rachel Blake, who makes deliveries for Brighton Gin said: “The eCargo bike really has been a huge asset. Even when loaded up with gin, it’s easy to pedal around the city and the motor really comes into its own when faced with the hills or a windy day along the seafront.
“It’s taken just over a year for us to reach the 2000 eCargo mile mark and I’m sure by the time the busy Christmas period is over, we’ll be pretty close to 3000.
“As a company, we’re very conscious about making sustainable choices so reducing our carbon footprint is extremely important to us. The eCargo bike and the accelerator project have been fantastic in helping us to do just that.
"We love the reception the bike gets as I’m peddling around town. There’s many a cheery wave from passers-by on each delivery round and our customers are always delighted to see their gin arriving by bike!”
Councillor Amy Heley, chair of the council’s Environment, Transport and Sustainability committee said: “Reaching the 2000 mile mark is a fantastic achievement and I’d like to congratulate Brighton Gin on such a great landmark.
“It’s so important that we support local businesses, where possible and practical, to make the switch away from using petrol and diesel powered vehicles to eCargo bikes and sustainable transport for services and deliveries.
“The eCargo Bike Accelerator Project is working extremely hard to reduce toxic emissions while ensuring businesses can continue to thrive. Only by giving them the support and infrastructure they need will we be able to reach our goal of being Carbon Neutral by 2030.”
