Electronic cargo bikes have been hailed as viable car replacements for regular errands like grocery shopping or taking the kiddos to school – and now you can try one out for free in North Vancouver.
Evo Car Share has teamed up with the city and district municipalities to offer residents a chance to rent e-cargo bikes with a few button presses of a mobile app.
Eight e-cargo bikes are available for pick up and return at six locations across North Van, including four public libraries and two multi-unit residential buildings.
The bikes come in two styles: a three-wheel front-loading bike, suitable for carrying groceries or garden supplies; and a longtail design, which can seat a couple of small children on the back.
The pilot program has begun and is running until Oct. 18. It will resume next March again until October of 2025. Municipal staff will use information gathered during this time to inform the possibility of similar programs in the future.
The idea started with a motion put forward by District of North Vancouver Coun. Jordan Back in 2023. Staff from both North Vancouver municipalities saw an opportunity to collaborate, and sought out a third-party vendor to run the rental service.
Back, who owns an e-cargo bike himself, said they can offer many people an easy and enjoyable way to get around their community.
“Personally, I love the freedom that comes with being able to go places by bike, and my e-cargo bike allows me to do everything from dropping off two kids at daycare to picking up groceries, replacing what would have otherwise been car trips,” he said.
“I am so excited for this pilot, as it will give anyone the opportunity try an e-cargo bike and see how it could fit into their life,” Back said. “And also provide council with valuable information.”
How to rent an e-cargo bike in North Vancouver
Bikes can be rented from four public libraries: DNV branches in Lynn Valley, Capilano and Parkgate, as well as North Vancouver City Library.
Here’s how:
- If you haven’t already, download the Evo app from your app store and sign up. Select “e-bikes/e-scooters” if you don’t want to opt in to car share.
- Press the “Evo Return” button. Then, select a location to pick up and drop off the bike, as well as a date and time.
- Show your booking confirmation in-person at your reserved time and location, and collect the keys.
- Check safety instructions at the pick-up location or online, wear a helmet and start riding.
- Return the e-cargo bike to the same location and return the keys to the library counter.
The e-cargo bikes can also be rented from two residential buildings: The Royals at 155 15th St. East, and The Lonsdale at 108 13th St. West.
Renters must sign up for the Evo app and be building tenants. Bookings can only be made in-person at the property offices.
Only same-day rentals are allowed. You can be fined for not showing up for your rental, or keeping one over your scheduled time.
