Project "E-TOUR"

European 4FP project running from 2000 to 2003.

The European project E-TOUR (electric bicycles on city roads) was set up to demonstrate, promote and evaluate the vehicles. Initial experiences with these bicycles indicate that employers form the most interesting target group for introducing the electric bicycles. The vehicles are mainly shared by employees for business purposes and for commuting through the city. They are also used for the delivery of small parcels. It has been shown that regular use of an electrically powered bicycle can improve physical health. This bicycle can be of immense value for a healthier society. In addition the average energy consumption of an electrically powered bicycle is only about 15 Watt per kilometre. This means that a 1m² solar panel is sufficient for 10,000 kilometres per year. E-TOUR plans to introduce the bicycles on a large scale in the city.

Project website: http://etecmc10.vub.ac.be/publications/etourfinal.pdf