27 villages trial e-bikes as car alternative

In Central Denmark Region, 27 villages will be provided with electric bicycles to assess if they can replace cars for residents. Originally, 65 villages applied, but 27 were chosen based on set criteria, including their motivation. The large interest led to an expansion of the project, noted Bent Graversen, Chair of the Committee for Regional Development. In a sharing scheme, residents can book e-bikes online and use them for 12 months. Active villages may keep them and continue the program. This initiative follows reduced bus services, prompting families to acquire additional vehicles. The trial aims to determine if e-bikes can meet short-distance travel needs but won’t replace public transit, emphasizes Graversen. Costs for the e-bikes, locking systems, maintenance, and the booking platform are covered by the region. The Land Village Council supports the trial, viewing it as an enhancement of mobility in rural areas. E-bikes will be deployed in August.