VINCI Facilities' technicians in Belgium make service calls by electric cargo bike
The first bike has just been taken into commission in and around Antwerp (Belgium). This environmentally friendly mode of transport as an alternative or complement to the conventional van is the solution to a plethora of mobility and parking problems. The initiative stems from one of the employees and reflects VINCI Energies’ commitment to green growth and development.
Various advantages
The type of cargo bike that will soon be seen in the streets is an electrically powered cargo bike on which the rider sits at the front. It has a large cargo space at the back with room for equipment such as toolboxes.
This mode of transport offers the technicians numerous advantages. First of all, they can ride on the cycle path where there are no traffic jams, thus saving a great deal of time. Secondly, there is no longer any need to look for a parking space. Lastly, a bicycle does not emit exhaust fumes and using it is also beneficial to your health.
Completely hooked
The idea came from one of VINCI Facilities’ own technicians. Luc works as an electrician, lives in Berchem and often has to go into town to meet clients. He was the first to use the bike for a week and was sold immediately. ‘The service calls I made on my cargo bike went surprisingly smoothly and in the city centre I can move about much faster than in any car. In a city the slightest incident will result in traffic jams that can last hours. I only take a van for really big jobs now; I’m completely hooked on my new cargo bike!’
It was Ward Beniest, Business Unit Manager of VINCI Facilities, who went in search of a mobility solution together with Luc. He is absolutely convinced of the advantages offered by this mode of transport: ‘Our clients are very happy with the faster service and it is also a positive development for the city residents, as fewer cars will be driving around here. Moreover, it helps VINCI Facilities reduce its carbon footprint. It’s a win-win situation.’
Green growth
Using electric cargo bikes fits in perfectly with VINCI Energies’ other initiatives. ‘One of the driving factors behind the company is a commitment to green growth and development,’ explains Ward Beniest.
‘In recent years many of our employees started leaving their cars at home, for example, and bought bikes instead. We even had to expand the bike shed to twice its size to meet the exponential growth in bicycles. In the future, we will continue to follow the course we have charted out and invite all technicians who are enthusiastic about this development to join one of our green and sportive teams.’
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