Beyond ULEZ: Cargo e-bikes for zero-emission deliveries

The start of 2025 marked a new chapter for urban logistics in the Netherlands, with 14 cities, including Amsterdam, Rotterdam, Utrecht, and The Hague, implementing zero-emission zones. Designed to decarbonise freight, these zones ban polluting vans and trucks from city centres. By 2030, all vehicles entering these areas must meet zero-emission standards. With 30 Dutch cities expected to adopt similar measures, the Netherlands is leading the charge towards cleaner, healthier urban environments.

The initiative builds on the country’s long-standing 'carrot and stick' approach to transport policy. Dutch cities have spent decades creating dense cycling and public transport networks while restricting car use through traffic calming measures and limited access. Now, this strategy is being applied to urban freight, addressing the surge in deliveries driven by e-commerce.

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To smooth the transition, a five-year phase-out period has been introduced. This allows older, more polluting vehicles to operate under transitional rules until 2030. The framework gives municipalities the flexibility to decide when and how to implement zero-emission zones.

The rise of cargo e-bikes

One of the most striking aspects of the Dutch approach is the growing role of cargo e-bikes. Nimble, efficient, and with no exhaust emissions, they are becoming essential for navigating cities where polluting vehicles are restricted. Currently, the Netherlands has around 9,500 locally produced freight bikes, and the global market for cargo bikes is projected to reach €2.4 billion by 2031.

Could the UK follow suit?

While London’s Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ) has made strides in improving air quality, a comprehensive zero-emission freight strategy is still lacking. The introduction of similar zones in British cities could drastically cut emissions and improve urban liveability.

However, there are barriers to overcome. Unlike in the Netherlands, e-bikes in the UK do not benefit from widespread subsidies. For a zero-emission zone policy to succeed, the UK would need to provide incentives for businesses to switch to electric and cargo bikes similar to those offered for other types of EV.

Imagine a future where major cities like Manchester, Birmingham, and Edinburgh embrace zero-emission zones. Delivery companies could use cargo bikes for last-mile logistics, while local councils offer grants to help small businesses upgrade their fleets. Streets could be transformed, with less noise, cleaner air, and more space for pedestrians and cyclists.

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With the right policies and investments, the we could usher in a freight revolution that benefits businesses, residents, and the planet alike.

Insurance for e-bikes

We cover all road-legal e-bikes as standard. If the output of your electric bicycle does not exceed 250 W/15.5 mph, we’ll cover it.

We also include Cycle Rescue as standard. If your e-bike suffers a puncture, mechanical fault, or even a flat battery, you can call on our breakdown team 24/7.

Every cycle insurance policy of ours includes the following as standard:

• Theft, accidental damage & vandalism
• E-bike battery theft cover
• Cycle Rescue (breakdown cover for your electric bicycle and you)
• No devaluation of your bike over time
• £2m third party PLUS £20,000 personal accident cover
• Shed and garage storage
• Low standard excess of 5% (£50 minimum)

Read a full list of everything we include as standard.

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The ethical choice

The ETA was established in 1990 as an ethical provider of green, reliable travel services. Over 30 years on, we continue to offer cycle insurance , breakdown cover and mobility scooter insurance while putting concern for the environment at the heart of all we do.

The Good Shopping Guide judges us to be the UK's most ethical provider.

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