Cargo e-bikes

An image of a cyclist riding a large cargo e-bike. Photo credit: Bunch Bikes

About this project

The Province of Ontario's cargo e-bike pilot program lets municipalities in Ontario now choose where and how large cargo e-bikes can be used. The pilot project runs from March 1, 2021, to March 1, 2026 in Ontario.

The provincial pilot program only applies to large cargo e-bikes that weigh more than 55 kilograms and have an electric motor between 500 and 1,000 watts. Smaller power-assisted box bikes are classified as e-bikes but are not part of this pilot program. These smaller e-bikes are already permitted in London and Ontario on streets, bike lanes, cycle tracks, and on multi-use pathways but only when pedaling.

The City of London is opting into the pilot for personal use (privately-owned) cargo e-bikes. This means that municipal by-laws will be updated to reflect where personal cargo e-bikes can be used.

The City is also opting into the pilot for commercial use cargo e-bikes. This means that a program will be developed, including licensing, permitting, and updates to municipal by-laws.

What is a cargo e-bike?

Cargo e-bikes are a type of power-assisted bike with a large platform or box to carry items like packages and boxes for deliveries, or transporting children. Riders must be aged 16 and up.

Residents and businesses could potentially use cargo e-bikes:

as another way to pick up or deliver products
to reduce their carbon footprint
as an alternative to delivery trucks

Courier companies like FedEx and UPS are already using large cargo e-bikes in Toronto, as well as in Europe and the United States.