The global e-bike market is poised to grow by nearly 10% between 2022 and 2030. In fact, our 2023 eBikes.org report found that there will be about 77.2 million e-bikes worldwide by about 2030.
There are many reasons behind the push for e-bikes - and EVs in general. They're sustainable, efficient, and easy to maintain, making them the perfect solution for the rideshare and delivery industry.
That's why companies are already relying more heavily on electric-powered vehicles than traditional transportation forms. Choosing EVs - particularly e-bikes - over carbon-emitting vehicles will likely lead to some significant changes in the rideshare and delivery world.
There's no way around it: EVs are on the rise everywhere. According to our 2023 survey, 15% of the U.S. population already owns at least one e-bike, and 17% of city dwellers plan to buy an e-bike within the year. We also found that the EV market in general - mostly cars and trucks - sold about 14 million units that same year.
Now, these aren't just individuals buying EVs. Many companies across a wide variety of industries are switching to EVs to reduce costs and improve sustainability.
For example, AT&T surpassed its 2020 goal and reduced its U.S. ground fleet emissions by over 38%, in part by switching to primarily hybrid passenger sedans. Comcast is also piloting electric and hybrid vehicles for its fleet. Even Heathrow Airport is getting into the EV game with up to 200 electric I-Pace Jaguars for chauffeuring around passengers.
The same trends is happening on delivery and rideshare industry.
Here's a reason more people (and companies) are turning to e-bikes for their transportation needs. They provide a perfect balance of eco-friendliness and efficiency - exactly what the delivery industry needs.
Cost Savings
According to 2021 data, the average delivery truck in the United States uses approximately 1,765 gasoline gallon equivalents annually. Light trucks and vans (like the ones you might see Amazon use) use an average of 636 gasoline gallon equivalents.
The 2021 average gasoline price was USD 3.10 per gallon. That means operating one delivery truck in '21 cost around USD 5,470 in fuel alone, while light trucks and vans paid about USD 1,970 in fuel expenses.
In subsequent years, the average gas price has only increased, with the 2023 average reaching USD 3.63 per gallon. That bumps yearly delivery vehicle costs up by about another USD 1,000.
EVs, on the flip side, calculate their electricity in eGallons instead of gallons. As of January 2024, the national average cost is USD 1.41 per eGallon, making EVs more than two times cheaper to operate than gas-powered vehicles.
Eco-Friendliness
While cost is a pretty persuasive factor for most businesses, it's also essential to consider environmental impacts.
Research from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency shows that EVs produce lower levels of greenhouse gases than an average new gasoline car - even with power plant emissions. In fact, electricity often comes from renewable energy sources like wind or solar power, which can reduce environmental impact even further.
With lower emissions comes better air quality - something our 2023 eBikes.org survey found that's significantly important to 70% of city dwellers. Another study even linked higher rates of EV usage to improved air quality.
Now, imagine the impact of most delivery and rideshare companies switching to electric vehicles.
Ease of Use
Driving an EV is just like driving any other car. But handling an e-bike is not like riding a traditional bike; it's easier.
With a traditional bike, you have to rely solely on your own strength to get the bike going and maintain speed. An e-bike takes that challenge away by giving you a motorized boost while you pedal. This removes the hassle of stopping and starting in traffic and minimizes the challenge of traveling up hills - especially in infamous cities like San Francisco.
The motor also makes carrying cargo far easier. Delivery drivers can tote around heavy packages and bags without feeling weighed down. They can keep delivering all day - and making more money - without needing a long break to rest.
Also, because e-bikes typically top out at 20 or 28 mph, they usually don't require a special license to drive (make sure to check your local laws, though!). That's one of the key differences between e-bikes and another standard delivery vehicle: motorcycles.
