National e-cycle programme
Updated 14 May 2022
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This publication is available at https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/national-e-cycle-pilot-programme-competition/national-e-cycle-programme-competition
We are no longer accepting applications for the national e-cycle programme competition.
In December 2021, the Department for Transport (DfT) launched a competition to find an organisation or consortium to deliver the national e-cycle support programme.
In May 2022, it was announced that Cycling UK had been selected and would lead a consortium of partners to offer:
- short-term opportunities to try e-cycles schemes: giving people a chance to ride in a relaxed and pleasant environment
- longer-term loans of e-cycles: encouraging people to see how e-cycles can be used in their daily routine
- the provision of e-cycles to help people access opportunities for employment and skills
The first pilot scheme has launched in Greater Manchester.
The term e-cycle covers:
- electrically assisted pedal cycles
- electric cycles
- e-bikes
- e-trikes
All e-cycles must comply with the electrically assisted pedal cycles (EAPCs) regulations.
Background
The national e-cycle programme provides a unique opportunity to integrate e-cycles into wider net zero and decarbonisation initiatives.
This e-cycle programme forms part of the Prime Minister’s ambitious Cycling and Walking Plan to boost cycling and walking, with a vision for half of all journeys in towns and cities to be cycled or walked by 2030. This included a £2 billion package of funding for active travel, which is the largest ever boost for cycling and walking.
E-cycles are already within the scope of the Cycle to Work scheme, which is a tax-efficient, salary-sacrifice employee benefit allowing employees to hire a cycle or cycle safety equipment.
A pilot e-cycle scheme launched in 2021 with a number of local authorities to test approaches to providing e-cycles to those with the highest need, including people who cannot benefit from the Cycle to Work scheme. The successful local authorities have been announced.
The Prime Minister also announced an e-cycle pilot scheme in Cornwall as part of the No.10-led G7 Summit announcement on the creation of England’s first nature recovery area in Cornwall.