Hospital among first to trial new electric bike

A hospital in East Yorkshire is one of the first NHS sites in England to trial a new electric bike.

The quadracycle eCargo bike is being tested by the porter team at Castle Hill Hospital in Cottingham in partnership with East Riding of Yorkshire Council.

It will be in use for a trial period of 12 months, carrying linen, gas cylinders, and other medical equipment and essentials across the site.

If successful, the bike, which must be pedalled to gain assistance from the electric motor, will replace a van as part of a drive to reduce carbon emissions and operational costs.

The project was funded by Active Travel England's Capability Fund.

Marc Beaumont, head of sustainability at Hull & East Yorkshire Hospitals NHS Trust, said: "The eCargo bike is a fantastic addition to our fleet and will help to contribute to our net zero ambitions.

"With its own solar field, Castle Hill is already leading the way when it comes to hospital sustainability, and we hope to use the electricity we generate ourselves to recharge the new eCargo bike batteries."

Andrew Bradley, sustainable travel lead, net zero travel and transport for NHS England, said: "We hope this project will be the first of many, showcasing what is possible."

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