The distinctive EAV semi-enclosed cargo bike is being used to “refuel” the company’s fleet of e-scooters in the capital.

Beam head of sustainability Frederick Conquer says the EAV is larger and more durable than the two and three wheel cargo bikes it currently uses for transporting the scooter batteries in Auckland, Wellington, Palmerston North and Whanganui.

The British-built EAV – electric assisted vehicle – is designed as a van replacement for congested city streets. 

Legally it’s classified as a bicycle so doesn’t need to meet the safety standards of a motor vehicle unlike the growing of micro-EVs which are increasingly popular in Europe and Asia but remain illegal on our roads.

The EAVs retail in the UK for £12,000 (NZ$23,000), and Conquer says Beam imported the cargo bike as part of its commitment to decarbonising the country’s transport fleet.

“Our aim is to be a technological leader and set an example for sustainable and effective last mile freight deliveries in New Zealand,” Conquer says.

Wellington’s notorious wind hasn’t proved a problem for the EAV, with gusts able to blow straight through the drivers compartment and the weight of batteries keeping its wheels firmly planted on the ground.

The bike’s own weight is kept down through the use of a composite based frame.

Its motor assists riders up to 25 km/h and it’s legally allowed on the capital’s growing network of cycle lanes.

Conquer says Beam would welcome government support for e-cargo bikes as part of its Emissions Reduction Plan.

A recent study conducted in Paris found that cargo bikes could be used for up to 91% of all urban deliveries. Not only is it greener in most cases it's faster too.

The company will evaluate the EAV's suitability for New Zealand conditions at the end of the trial.