Logistics firm UPS has established a micro hub in the city of Cambridge, operating from a converted shipping container, and which will serve as a consolidation and dispatch point for packages bound for the city centre.
New electric assisted vehicles will provide the sustainable transport service, reducing emissions and congestion compared to conventional vehicles.
The hub will be home to three electric-assisted quad cycles, known as eQuads, which will provide final-mile delivery to residential and commercial properties in the city with zero tailpipe emissions, supporting deliveries typically made in two conventional diesel vans.
The eQuads, developed by UK-based company Fernhay, can use cycle lanes and dual-use pedestrianised zones, ensuring safe access to areas where cars and trucks are restricted.
As well as assisting in UPS’ sustainability goals, the move also supports Cambridge’s Clean Air initiative, which aims to reduce emissions in the city centre by promoting more sustainable methods for local deliveries.
It follows UPS’ other sustainable transport projects in the UK, such as the central London package facility with a smart charging grid for a fleet of electric vehicles. The firm is also participating in the London Light Freight Walking Trial, part of the Defra-funded Clean Air Logistics for London project with Cross River Partnership – which sees an operator and an electric-assisted walker delivering to recipients in Fitzrovia.
Artur Drenk, Director of Sustainability, UPS EMEAI:
“As cities worldwide adopt eco-friendly transportation measures, such as low-emission and zero-emission zones, we are at the forefront, aligning our operations with more sustainable solutions.
“The Cambridge hub is evidence of our dedication to serving customers and communities while reducing our footprint on the ground.”
Image courtesy of UPS
