Appiah’s DB Schenker delivery truck has been replaced by a cargo bike – not only to the delight of Appiah himself, but also appreciated by Oslo city dwellers and benefitting the environment in the process.
Having just delivered a package to the district of Grünerløkka from Filipstadkaia via the centre of Oslo, the courier from DB Schenker says: "It feels good to think that I'm not polluting." Grünerløkka is made of narrow, one-way roads, but for Appiah this is not a problem. Although the bike is big, it is surprisingly easy to manoeuvre, even when turning 180 degrees on a narrow street. Plus, bike lanes are wide with plenty of room for his electric cargo bike.
The cargo bike is an Armadillo from Velo bikes, with two batteries that run for about 25 km each. Behind the seat is a large cargo space that fits up to 125 kg of goods. This corresponds to about 20 to 30 packages, depending on their sizes and can be parked almost anywhere.
From the bike seat, Appiah explains: “Riding an electric cargo bike in Oslo is great. It is almost faster for me to deliver goods this way than with a van.”
Contribution to better air quality
Appiah grew up in the district of Grønland in Oslo. He has been cycling all his life - to school, football practice and the shops. Even though cycling has primarily been his means of transport, Appiah still enjoys the ride.
“I notice that Oslo has become a better city for cycling. There have been many new roads and nice bike paths in recent years. I really appreciate that,” says Appiah.
He is happy that cycling is a part of his working day now. The fresh air and physical activity are good for both his body and mind. On the electric bike he can adjust how much muscle power he must use, and as a result, how much the electric battery is used. When cycling uphill and through fresh snow a little help is always appreciated!
“This job provides opportunities for exercise, because there is a lot of pedaling in one day, but obviously I notice the difference from the time I drove a car,” he explains.
Exhaust-free
The cargo bike is not just a summer mode of transport. Throughout the year and regardless of the weather, Appiah uses his cargo bike. As the saying goes, “it’s not poor weather, just poor clothing,” so Appiah dresses appropriately. In the winter, he can be seen with wool baselayer and water and windproof outlayers - plus the bike tyres are equipped with studs.
“It is important to inspect the bike every morning to check that all screws and bolts are secure. Sometimes we test that the air pressure is correct. Otherwise, not much equipment or preparation is required,” he observes.
Benjamin Appiah thrives well on the job in the city he is so fond of. On the cargo bike he feels more connected to the other street users. He regularly experiences passers-by greeting him and taking photos as a result of his cargo bike. Most importantly though, he thrives because he knows he is making a contribution to cleaner air in Oslo.
“It feels good to contribute to a better environment. I notice first-hand how bad it can get with exhaust from petrol and diesel cars when I cycle behind large vehicles on the road. It's not particularly comfortable, and I'm glad I'm not one of them,” says Appiah.
2020 Vision
Oslo aims to be a zero-emission city by 2020 when it comes to the delivery of goods. It requires everyone to contribute, including the business sector. The logistics company DB Schenker is one of the world's largest, and plans to be 100% emission-free by 2020. Appiah's bike is one of the practical measures on the road to achieve these complementary goals.
“A lot of customers find it funny when they see me coming on my cargo bike, because not many people have seen such a vehicle before. It's good advertising for Schenker too, with its logo on the cargo box,” Appiah points out.
Appiah is truly an ambassador for Oslo European Green Capital 2019: “That is very nice. I love Oslo, and I think the city deserves the title. It will be exciting to see what will happen during the (European) Green Capital year, and what impact it will have,” concludes Appiah with an optimistic smile.