Continuation of heavy goods transport programme expected in the upcoming spring season
Hamburg, the second-largest city in Germany, has taken a significant step towards sustainable urban freight traffic with the introduction of its first cargo pedelec for hire named StadtRad. This move is part of a broader effort to reduce the burden on city streets caused by package deliveries, a substantial part of freight traffic.
Cargo bikes offer several advantages over cars, including avoiding traffic congestion, not requiring parking spaces, and being emission-free. Recognising these benefits, the city has expanded its StadtRad fleet by 20 cargo pedelecs.
To further encourage the switch to cargo bikes, the city is offering a total of 700,000 euros in support. Entities with a primary residence in Hamburg can apply for funding of up to 33% of the purchase price for cargo bikes. This funding is available for private individuals, businesses, and other entities within the city.
The environmental authority in Hamburg is continuing its #moinzukunft funding program this spring to relieve freight traffic. From April 1, private individuals and companies can receive a subsidy of up to 2,000 euros for an electric cargo bike and 500 euros for a regular cargo bike.
The #moinzukunft funding program provided 1.5 million euros for funding in autumn 2019, which was quickly exhausted. Cargo bikes are considered an important part of the mobility transition, especially in metropolitan areas like Hamburg.
The market for cargo bikes offers a growing number of practical and exciting models. One such example is Nüwiel, a company that produces bike trailers for E-Scooters.
For those interested in applying for funding, it's important to note that application and approval are required before purchasing the cargo bikes in Hamburg. The innovation portal for Hamburg, future.hamburg, provides more information on the application process and other sustainable mobility initiatives in the city.
While the specific Minister for the Environment in Hamburg who supported the financing of the transition to cargo bikes could not be explicitly named, it is worth noting that Carsten Schneider holds this position at the federal level in Germany since May 2025. In Hamburg, this position is titled as Senator, and no specific Hamburg senator for environment was mentioned in the provided information.
The U3-Fiete, the most ridden bike in the world, serves as a testament to the city's commitment to cycling and sustainable mobility. With the introduction of StadtRad and the expanded funding for cargo bikes, Hamburg continues to lead the way in urban mobility transition.
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