Are Deliveries About to Get Greener? The UK Welcomes the Chariot FS2 Trike | April 05th, 2024

Plus, Ford announced the delay of its electric three-row SUV until 2027 and Uber and Waymo introduce Uber Eats deliveries via autonomous vehicles in Phoenix.

Issue [#233] - Every week, we deliver analysis and curation of emerging mobility news - post a job listing here!

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Micromobility

The European Declaration on Cycling, signed in Brussels, signifies a significant advancement in prioritizing cycling across the EU. With commitments from all EU Transport Ministers, it sets a precedent for cycling policies at all levels of governance, aiming to elevate cycling as a primary mode of transportation and economic growth | ZAGDaily

Despite the global popularity of electric bicycles, major automakers have repeatedly struggled to succeed in this market. Even with notable attempts dating back to the 1990s, including ventures by automotive legends like Lee Iacocca and companies like Ford and Harley-Davidson, the automotive industry has faced significant challenges in translating its expertise into successful e-bike ventures | Electrek

Today, 18 European mobility companies launch a joint call to action in Brussels, aiming to propel Europe as a leader in transport innovation. The EU Future Mobility Task Force presents a report to European Commissioner for Transport, Adina Vălean, advocating for sustainable, affordable, and connected mobility solutions. Commissioner Vălean states, 'Europe has the potential to become a global leader in mobility innovation.' Their joint efforts demonstrate true European values of collaboration | Tech.eu

Product Launches & Updates

Ford announced the delay of its electric three-row SUV until 2027, alongside commencing work on the next electric truck in 2026. Hybrid options will extend across its production line. Ford cites the need for market maturity and emerging battery tech. "Additional time for market development," Ford stated | The Verge

Revolutionizing last-mile delivery, Delivery Mates and Cargo Cycling join forces to introduce the game-changing Chariot FS2 trike to the UK. Combining sustainable innovation with operational excellence, this partnership sets the stage for faster, more efficient, and profitable deliveries, marking a pivotal moment in the future of urban logistics | ZAGDaily

BYD's electrifying debut into the pickup truck arena is imminent, with the global launch of its first all-electric model slated by 2024. As images of its camouflaged truck emerge, BYD's move underscores its ambition to dominate the EV market globally, challenging established players and driving innovation in sustainable transportation | Electrek

Ridehailing, Carsharing & Delivery

In a hilarious yet eye-opening take, John Oliver delves into the complex world of food delivery apps, revealing how their convenience masks deep-seated issues. From exploiting restaurants with hefty fees to compromising food quality, these apps are facing scrutiny for their impact on both businesses and delivery workers. It's a cautionary tale wrapped in humor, showing that beneath the surface of convenience lies a web of exploitation | The Verge

Waymo takes a lighthearted approach with their self-driving cars, introducing a whimsical "Grandma mode" complete with cozy decor and a nurturing voice reminiscent of a grandmother's. It's a humorous nod to their reputation as the "Grandma of Robotaxis," adding a touch of fun to the autonomous driving experience | The Verge

In an exciting expansion of their collaboration, Uber and Waymo introduce Uber Eats deliveries via autonomous vehicles, starting today in Phoenix. Consumers in Tempe, Mesa, and Chandler can now enjoy their favorite meals from local merchants like Princess Pita and BoSa Donuts, with the option to opt-out at checkout. "The addition of food delivery to Uber’s ongoing partnership with Waymo reflects both companies’ mission to encourage zero-emission trips," says the announcement | Uber

DeliverZero and Uber Eats team up to tackle plastic waste on the West Coast, offering customers in LA and the Bay Area the option of eco-friendly packaging for a small fee. With over 11,000 single-use containers saved since its launch, this initiative not only champions sustainability but also promises cost savings for restaurants, heralding a greener future for food delivery | Modern Delivery

Investment & Deals

BlaBlaCar, the world’s leading community-based travel app, has secured a €100 million revolving credit facility to fuel its growth ambitions, bringing its total funding to over €637 million. With 27 million active members annually across 21 countries, BlaBlaCar matches drivers with passengers, offering affordable and sustainable travel solutions. Nicolas Brusson, CEO of BlaBlaCar, stated, "This €100 million financing will enable us to pursue an ambitious growth strategy, including M&A, where we currently explore several opportunities." | Tech.eu

Volta Trucks overcomes bankruptcy, restarts focused EV business plan. After a brief bankruptcy period, Volta Trucks is back with renewed capital and a streamlined strategy. The company is set to continue supplying electric last-mile trucks to customers in the coming year | Electrek

Alsym aims to provide electricity to a billion people with its innovative battery. Volta Trucks overcomes bankruptcy, resumes EV business plan | TechCrunch

Maniv expands in all directions with $140M fund. Venture firm Maniv has experienced significant growth in its eight-year journey, increasing its investor base, startup portfolio, geographic focus, footprint, and fund size | TechCrunch

Cities & Policy

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has launched its third investigation into Fisker’s Ocean SUV, focusing on door malfunctions. With 14 complaints, the NHTSA's Office of Defects Investigation notes an "intermittent failure" of the door latch system. Customers' reports of being stuck prompted Fisker's cooperation. This probe comes amidst Fisker's financial struggles, halting Ocean production and facing a potential partnership collapse with Nissan | TechCrunch

Excited law clerks bring fresh energy to the local press as the historic congestion pricing case unfolds in a nondescript courtroom. After hurdles, New York's congestion pricing law is finally on trial. Lawyers spar over FHWA's process, with Judge Gordon seeking clarity. Environmental mitigations are scrutinized as the legal saga continues | StreetsBlog USA

South Korea's $100 billion baby-making trains tackle low fertility. With the world's lowest fertility rate, South Korea explores the potential of trains to address the issue | Jalopnik

DC Metro's design and wayfinding evolution: The good, the bad, and the ugly. Enhanced signage aims to improve ridership, but original designers may not have endorsed it | Bloomberg

Tesla implicates Apple in upcoming Autopilot crash trial. Tesla aims to demonstrate that an Apple engineer was playing a game on their phone during a fatal accident involving a Model X and a safety barrier | The Verge

Demand for electric buses surges in U.S. cities, but manufacturers struggle to meet it. Shrinking bus manufacturers pose a challenge for public transit agencies aiming to transition to greener fleets | Fast Company

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