Ryde, a delivery service company, has announced the launch of a pilot with Port, an e-mobility startup, to electrify last-mile deliveries across the UK capital.
Port operates fleets of light electric vehicles (LEVS) that are locked and charged in dedicated ports, which are installed in hubs across London.
To use the vehicles, customers need to be subscribed to Port’s e-mobility package, which includes parking, charging, maintenance and software.
Read more: Port and Q-Park launch world’s first EV ‘dark hub’
The LEV range includes e-bikes, e-mopeds, e-cargo bikes and e-scooters, all of which can reportedly cover up to 100km (62 miles) on a single charge.
What’s more, Port claims its services are easily accessible to the riders, who can use its app to unlock an LEV and return it after work.
The pilot will involve the rental of LEVs from a Port hub in Q-Park in Leicester Square parking in London; through Port’s software platform, Ryde will offer free access to the fleet to a select number of its couriers.
What’s more, the two companies claim the hubs are conveniently located and can be accessed through public transport links.
“As we’re building a same-day delivery business that is people and planet friendly, we are working with an unwavering dedication to support our riders, as their higher engagement results in overall better experiences for end customers.
“We are excited to partner with Port, as it provides the industry-first, end-to-end e-mobility solution that helps us reduce carbon footprint, improve courier convenience and increase overall efficiency.
“As a rider-first business, equipping our riders with efficient electric vehicles is another step to further strengthen our leading offering for businesses, riders and residents of the cities“, says Duncan Mitchell, co-founder and CEO of Ryde.
According to Port, the dark hub in Q-Park Leicester Square follows two years of R&D and trials by the company. Key to the functioning of the system is dedicated fleet management software and a patented universal docking station that Port claims can lock and charge any LEV.
