In 2023, sales of electric cargo bikes increased by 20% in major European cities, proof of their success. We believe this number will continue to grow this year. These electric bikes are the vehicle of families with children, urban delivery professionals, and eco-citizens who want to adopt an alternative to polluting transport. Are you also considering buying an electric bike cargo to simplify your daily life? Before reaching for your wallet, you need to know the different types of electric bike cargos available on the market, the most well-known being the longtail and the compact.
Welcome to the future of sustainable mobility!
The electric bike cargo longtail: for long trips and heavy loads
The longtail is the ideal tool when you have trips to make or loads to carry. This type of electric bike cargo can support up to 100 kg. It can perfectly replace the car, especially for daily commutes. To go to work, do shopping, or transport equipment, the electric bike cargo longtail combines comfort, robustness, and practicality. With its large load capacity, it will be very useful for carrying up to 4 shopping bags or even a tool trailer without any problem.
A design made for heavy loads and smooth riding
The electric bike cargo longtail is easily recognized by its extended platform at the rear, capable of accommodating bulky items. This platform allows for carrying loads of 50 to 100 kg. Its geometry is specially designed so that the bike remains easy to steer, even with a heavy load. It can carry 2 children and their bags without losing comfort or stability.
Numbers that make the difference: load capacity and comfort
The longtail is a powerful electric bike, capable of carrying up to 100 kg, or even more depending on the chosen model. Unlike the classic bike whose weight capacity is often very limited, this bike of the future is much tougher. It can carry heavy loads such as groceries, sports equipment, or professional tools.
In terms of comfort, these cargo bikes do not disappoint. Most models are equipped with suspensions and ergonomic saddles to ensure a pleasant ride, even when riding with a significant load. Longtail electric bike cargos are much more comfortable than classic bikes, even over long distances.
A versatile choice for families and professionals
The longtail is not only for families who want to transport children or groceries. It also suits professionals who need to transport equipment or tools daily.
For example, the vehicle can carry up to 8 shopping bags or work equipment weighing about 50 kg. Also, this vehicle is much more ecological and economical than a car, with a much lower operating cost (about €0.10 per trip compared to €2 for a car on average).
An electric bike cargo for everyday use: robust, reliable, and practical
Your longtail electric bike cargo accompanies you everywhere and at any time: a family outing, a professional trip, or even transporting equipment, it meets all needs. This vehicle combines impressive load capacity figures (up to 100 kg), optimal comfort thanks to its careful design, and stability that makes it reliable for all types of trips. A solid choice for those looking for an alternative to motorized transport.
The compact electric bike cargo: agility and maneuverability at the service of the city
You are among those looking for an agile means of transport in urban environments. The compact electric bike cargo is the solution. This "compact" model is perfectly suited to the narrow streets of the city while offering practical load capacity. With its ease of transport and great maneuverability, it simplifies daily trips and makes them more efficient. This compact electric bike cargo allows you to move easily in the city without giving up load capacity.
A small size, but a large load capacity
The compact cargo electric bike is designed to be shorter and lighter than the longtail. With a generally smaller frame, it is easier to maneuver in confined urban spaces.
Although it can carry slightly less weight (usually between 30 and 50 kg), it remains robust enough for daily use. For example, you can easily load groceries, boxes, or small professional equipment. Its smaller size also makes it easier to park, carry in elevators, or store at home.
Maneuverability and agility: its main strengths in the city
The biggest asset of the compact cargo electric bike lies in its maneuverability. Thanks to its shorter size, it is extremely responsive and easy to steer in heavy traffic. It can easily weave between cars or pedestrians and park quickly in tight spaces. Another strong point of this bike is its lightness (between 20 and 25 kg depending on the models).
The ideal bike for urban trips and small deliveries
The compact cargo electric bike is ideal for quick city deliveries, weekly shopping, or transporting small parcels. For example, it can easily carry up to 4 shopping bags or a small piece of furniture. Its maneuverability in crowded streets and ability to slip into tight spaces make it the perfect companion for fast and practical urban use.
Comparison between the two types of cargo electric bikes: Longtail vs Compact
The longtail and compact cargo electric bikes each have their advantages, but the choice depends on your specific needs. To help you choose the one that suits you best, here is a detailed comparison.
Longtail vs Compact: What are the main differences?
|
Criteria |
Longtail Cargo Electric Bike |
Compact Cargo Electric Bike |
|
Load capacity |
Large capacity (up to 100 kg) – ideal for heavy loads |
Reduced capacity (up to 50 kg) but suitable for light to medium loads |
|
Length |
Longer, with a larger rear luggage rack |
Shorter, easy to handle and store |
|
Maneuverability |
Less maneuverable in the city, but stable over long distances |
Very maneuverable, perfect for navigating narrow streets |
|
Comfort |
Optimal comfort for longer trips, but heavier |
Less comfortable over long distances, but light and practical in the city |
|
Agility |
Less agile, especially in densely populated areas |
Very agile, ideal for weaving through dense traffic |
Which cargo bike for which need?
It all depends on your priorities
• Opt for a longtail if you need to carry heavy loads (up to 100 kg), make long trips, or need more space for your children or shopping.
• Choose a compact if you are in the city, have shorter trips, and prioritize maneuverability, agility, and ease of storage.
The right cargo bike will therefore depend on your transport habits and how you want to use it daily.
The ecological and economic benefits of electric cargo bikes
Electric cargo bikes are not only practical and modern, they also offer considerable ecological and economic benefits. By choosing this mode of transport, you contribute to a greener future while saving in the long term.
Energy savings and emission reduction: a beneficial choice for the planet and your wallet
Switching to an electric cargo bike is above all a gesture for the environment. By replacing a car or motorcycle for your urban trips, you significantly reduce your CO2 emissions. An electric bike consumes about 0.5 kWh for 50 km, which is less than €0.1 of electricity per trip, compared to €5 to €10 of fuel for a gasoline vehicle for the same trip. Moreover, over short distances, an electric cargo bike generates almost no greenhouse gas emissions.
Savings related to automobiles
In addition to the positive ecological impact, the electric cargo bike allows for considerable savings. You save on fuel, maintenance costs (fewer parts to replace), and often on parking, especially in the city. For example, a car owner can save up to €2000 per year by using an electric cargo bike instead of their car for urban trips.
Subsidies and aid for purchase: take advantage of financial benefits
More and more governments offer financial aid for the purchase of electric bikes. In France, for example, subsidies of up to €500 are available for the purchase of an electric bike, depending on the model and conditions. Some municipalities offer specific subsidies for cargo bikes. Additionally, companies often offer bonuses to encourage their employees to choose a more ecological mode of transport.
FAQ
1. What is the difference between a longtail cargo bike and a compact cargo bike?
The longtail is longer and designed to carry heavy loads over long distances, while the compact is shorter, more maneuverable, and ideal for urban trips.
2. Can children be transported on a compact cargo bike?
Yes, some compact models are designed to carry children, with suitable seats or secure platforms at the back.
3. What are the advantages of a cargo bike for professional deliveries?
The cargo bike helps reduce fuel costs, avoid traffic jams, and deliver in an eco-friendly way. It is particularly suitable for short to medium distance deliveries.
4. How long does the battery of an electric cargo bike last?
The battery life varies depending on the model and usage, but on average, it lasts between 40 and 80 km per charge.
5. Is a license required to ride an electric cargo bike?
No, it is not necessary to have a license to ride an electric cargo bike, as long as the speed does not exceed 25 km/h (European standard).
Conclusion
In summary, the electric bike cargo is an excellent means of transport, combining practicality and ecology. No matter your choice, a longtail model for carrying heavy loads or a compact model for more agility in the city, each type has its advantages. Besides being good for the environment, your electric bike allows you to save money while making your daily trips easier.
Adopting a cargo bike means choosing a modern, economical, and environmentally friendly solution.