UPS to Test Electric Bikes for Deliveries in Seattle

United Parcel Services of America Inc. plans to launch a pilot program in downtown Seattle next month that will employ electric-assist bicycles to deliver packages to certain areas.

The delivery giant has conducted similar tests in Pittsburgh and several cities in Europe. But the year-long Seattle program adds some new aspects, including a detachable cargo trailer.

UPS, in conjunction with researchers at the University of Washington and the Urban Freight Lab, will evaluate the effectiveness of the program. The assessment will look at the design and reliability of the bicycle and carrier, and how well the service meshes with Seattle’s infrastructure.

UPS partnered with Portland-based Silver Eagle Manufacturing and Truck Trikes Co. to design the electric bike and cargo carrier. Riders can operate the bicycle entirely on their own, as a pedal-assist system or on full electric power.

The detachable 95-cu-ft modules can carry packages weighing as much as 400 lbs. Couriers will drive on sidewalks and designated bike lanes to make their deliveries, picking pick up pre-loaded containers from a designated city parking spot and returning them empty.

In addition to avoiding the tailpipe emissions of delivery trucks, UPS says the e-bikes can save time and money. The bikes also can go to locations not directly accessible by cars and trucks, such as down narrow alleys or navigating tight corners, steep inclines or off-road sites.

UPS got its start in Seattle as a bicycle messenger company in 1907.