Electric Assisted Vehicles (EAV), the Oxfordshire-based micro-mobility manufacturer, has delivered two new EAV2Cubed vehicles to Oxford’s famous Covered Market. This is part of a £200,000 government-funded trial to new zero-emissions delivery methods in the city.
The vehicles, named Aria and Atlas by Oxford City Council, will be used by the various businesses of the Covered Market. With one of the rear cargo bays being refrigerated, it opens up the use to a wide range of businesses. It is currently being used to deliver fresh flowers, chocolate, meat and even artisan ice cream around the centre of Oxford.
These new vehicles, similar to those used by Asda and Spin, are ideal for city use easily navigating through traffic. Plus, they won’t be charged in the centre of Oxford when the new Zero Emission Zone pilot scheme comes into effect in August. This is perfect for the traders of the Covered Market who deliver across the city centre.
Adam Barmby, CEO and EAV founder, said: “The opportunity for EAV to supply these unique vehicles for the Covered Market traders to use is really exciting.
“We’re now really looking forward to seeing the EAV vehicles regularly on the streets of Oxford where they’ll prove their extraordinary efficiency and help to keep pollution levels, as well as congestion, to the lowest possible levels.”
Data recently published found the significant reductions in traffic caused by the coronavirus pandemic resulted in a 29 percent improvement in air quality levels across Oxford. This is the lowest measure of air pollution since recording first began in 1996. As Oxford emerges from the pandemic, the Council is exploring how it can learn from the lockdown period to ensure Oxford has the cleanest air possible.
Councillor Tom Hayes, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Green Transport and Zero Carbon Oxford, said: “As Oxford prepares to become Britain’s first Zero Emission Zone, our historic city and treasured market is embracing a zero-emissions future with the arrival of two new electric cargo bikes.
“Wherever you live in the city, you will be able to receive excellent Covered Market goods to your door using zero-emission deliveries, so please continue to shop at our wonderful home for independent businesses.”
