eQuad: A four-wheeled e-assist cycle to conquer urban deliveries

Looking like a cross between a smart golf buggy and a cargo bike, UPS's latest foray into electric delivery vehicles is, in fact, a four-wheeled e-assist cycle or eQuad for short.

UPS is trialling 100 of the eQuads, built by UK firm Fernhay, across London with a view to expanding their use to 7 other European cities.

As traffic congestion and ever stricter emissions legislation continue to make urban deliveries a challenge, courier companies are turning to cargo cycles.

UPS vice president of fleet maintenance and engineering, Luke Wake, told Reuters: “There are more and more opportunities for zero-emission solutions like this that can alleviate inner-city congestion. It can also help our operations be more efficient at the same time.”

Although it's hard to tell, the eQuad is a pedal-powered vehicle - albeit one that benefits from battery powered assistance to move it's 200kg cargo.

Suspension, hydraulic brakes and a width of only 840mm make the eQuad perfect for making the most of almost all areas of a city's cycle network.

The rise of the cargo bike

Around 4,000 cargo bikes were sold in the UK last year, and while the figure's small fry compared to other European countries, sales of these most practical of cycles are on the increase.

Cargo bikes offer a clean, quiet and cost effective way to carry stuff that's too bulky for a conventional bicycle. However, the fact they're bigger and heavier can make a breakdown troublesome.

Even the shortest journey comes to an abrupt halt in the event of a flat tyre, broken chain or buckled wheel and carrying kids or cargo adds an unwelcome dimension to being stuck. It's why over 25 years ago we launched Cycle Rescue - the first breakdown cover policy for bicycles and one that covers cargo bikes recumbents and tandems.

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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How much does bicycle breakdown cost?

Cycle Rescue costs just £24 per year with no hidden extras to pay if your bicycle or cargo bike suffers a breakdown.

How does bicycle breakdown cover work?

If you suffer a breakdown (including punctures) while out cycling, or are unable to continue due to an injury, our 24-hour Cycle Rescue team is on hand to arrange transport for you and your cycle to a safe location. If you would prefer to arrange a taxi for yourself, simply send us your receipts and we will reimburse you for the costs (subject to the terms and conditions).

Can I get bicycle breakdown for my cycling trip to Europe?

Yes. If you decide to venture further afield, Cycle Rescue cover includes the rest of Europe for up to 90 days per year. All for only £24 a year - or included free when you buy cycle insurance with us.

I'm new to cycling - do I need breakdown cover for my bicycle?

Lockdown resulted in an unexpected boost to cycling as folk took advantage of quieter roads. Now that many commuters have returned to work, many are choosing cycling as a healthy (and cost-effective) alternative to driving. Breakdown cover for bicycles is as useful to novice cyclists as it is to experienced riders. After all, who knows when a breakdown is around the corner? And at £24 - equivalent to a single cup of coffee per month - many are deciding that Cycle Rescue provides affordable and welcome peace of mind.