UPS first began as a bike messenger service in 1907, and more than a century later, the company is reverting back to similar methods. In a pilot program that has already launched in cities like London and Dublin, UPS has rolled out electric quads (eQuads) to NYC streets.
Electric vehicles are nothing new to the company, as UPS has been investing in and driving them since the 1930s. It’s all part of their mission to minimize traffic congestion and reduce their carbon footprint.
The four-wheeled cycles were made by Fernhay, a UK-based product development and project management consultancy. The implementation of these eQuads are intended to improve drop rates, use cycle lanes, produce zero emissions and maintain a sound design.
Wrapped in the UPS’s signature brown and gold colors, the less than three feet wide eQuads can run 37 miles on a singular charge and “[allows] the operator to use cycle lanes and easily move through narrow streets and dual-use pedestrian zones. They’re the latest leap forward in UPS’s use of innovative solutions and advanced technology to operate more sustainably,” shares UPS on their website.
Read all about it! 🗞 @UPS eBikes hit streets of Manhattan testing pilot program for deliveries w/ UPS @fernhay eQuad. It’s an electric cargo bike allowing for more #sustainable deliveries in urban areas. Full circle for 100+ yr company that started as a bike messenger service.🚲 pic.twitter.com/HLRd8Cbg5g
— UPS Public Affairs (@UPSPolicy) June 14, 2022
“The eQuads are specifically designed with changes in urban delivery in mind,” said Luke Wake, vice president of maintenance and engineering. ”Many cities around the world not only have more pedestrian areas but are also growing fast, resulting in more package deliveries in busy areas inaccessible to larger vehicles. The eQuad is a solution that can deliver throughout cities reducing noise, emissions and congestion.”
In addition to the eQuads, UPS had previously released their three-wheeled Rytle eBikes, totaling the company’s amount of alternative fuel and advanced technology vehicles to more than 12,000 worldwide.
Find out more about the company’s sustainable efforts here.