Carbon CLEVER Cycles scheme launches in Inverness
A new pilot electric bike hire scheme has been launched in Inverness . Carbon CLEVER Cycles is a collaborative project between The Highland Council, Co-wheels car club and SSE which allows users to hire an e-bike from two convenient locations in Inverness, at Falcon Square and Council Headquarters at Glenurquhart Road.
The project is part of the Council’s vision and commitment to make Inverness carbon neutral by 2025.
There are 12 e-bikes available for hire (6 at each location), with rentals starting at £1.75 per hour. An e-bike is a bicycle with an electric motor which provides power-assistance when pedalling, providing users with the confidence to tackle hills, headwinds and busy junctions with ease.
Cyclists will be provided with a helmet, hi-vis vest, panniers, bike lock, and 13amp portable charger. A pump is also available in each locker.
The scheme will be operated by Co-wheels car club and users are required to register via their website in order to hire an e-bike.
Funding for the project was provided by SSE (£40,000), with contributions from The Highland Council (£10,000) and Inverness Common Good Fund (£5,000).
Leader of The Highland Council, Councillor Drew Hendry said: “The Council is committed to both reducing its own carbon emissions and working with partners, stakeholders and the people of the Highlands to reduce the carbon footprint of the region through the Carbon CLEVER Highlands initiative.
“The Carbon CLEVER Cycles pilot project is an excellent example of forward thinking and will promote active travel in Inverness. It is an exciting pilot which has the potential to grow and develop.”
George Baxter, Head of Development Strategy, SSE said: "We're delighted to be supporting the Carbon CLEVER initiative to help Inverness reach its goal of becoming carbon neutral. The new e-bike lockers have now been installed and the people of Inverness can now try out these top-of-the-range e-bikes. Some of my colleagues in our Inverness office have already tested them out and were very impressed so I'm sure residents and visitors to the Highland Capital will enjoy using them too."
Richard Falconer, Director at Co-wheels car club added: “Co-wheels are really excited to be working with The Highland Council and SSE on such an exciting project. Our self-service e-bikes are the perfect way to enjoy Inverness and discover new parts of the Highlands. The bikes will be a real asset to Inverness providing residents and visitors alike with a sustainable environmental alternative to using the car for short journeys.”
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