CONTEXT

Freight transport has increased significantly in recent years. This is accompanied by increasing environmental pollution through emissions and a growing use of traffic areas. The quality of life in cities is declining and conflicts with other road users are on the increase. One of the reasons for this development is the growing desire to deliver goods to the door. Innovative concepts are therefore needed to satisfy this demand in a way that is as compatible as possible for everyone.

A research project of the University of Applied Sciences Darmstadt together with the Research Lab for Urban Transport of the FRA-UAS is pursuing exactly such a concept. In the current situation of the corona crisis, online orders have increased again, which is also putting pressure on local retailers. The (big!) Internet retailers are profiting above average from the crisis; especially system non-critical retailers in the cities and communities had to close for public traffic and offer – in some cases – a rudimentary, self-organized delivery service. This is supported in Darmstadt by the bicycle manufacturer Riese & Müller, which offers rental cargo bikes precisely for this target group. In addition, the Heinerbike project in Darmstadt offers four cargo bikes for rent free of charge. The start-up Sigo offers load bikes for rental at fixed stations.

In the wake of the Corona crisis, many retailers in the city centres are at a severe disadvantage compared to internet companies due to the closure of shops to the public. Nevertheless, these retailers can still implement a “same day delivery” approach much earlier and, above all, more sustainably: The goods are already in the city and only have to be delivered to the customer. Sustainability by reducing emissions and promoting regional delivery structures are the main focus.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hZr5uzt6gd8

PROJECT OBJECTIVE

Prototypical development of a wheel delivery service by integrating local retailers and current load bike solutions in Darmstadt. Empirical accompanying research on the acceptance of such a delivery service by suppliers (retailers), bike couriers and customers.

IMPLEMENTATION

The project is divided into the following work packages

1. Development of the delivery system with the pilot supplier Spargelhof Merlau
2. Expansion of the supply system through a broad base of customers and dealers
3. Legal issues
4. Accompanying research (with life cycle assessment and study of transferability to other cities)