UPS has opened a micro hub in Cambridge, the hub, operating from a converted shipping container, will serve as a consolidation and dispatch point for packages destined for the city centre.

The Cambridge cycle hub will be home to three electric-assisted quad cycles, known as eQuads.

These innovative vehicles, developed by UK-based company Fernhay, will provide final-mile delivery to residential and commercial properties in the city with zero tailpipe emissions.

Artur Drenk, Director of Sustainability, UPS EMEAI, said: “As cities worldwide adopt eco-friendly transportation measures, such as low-emission and zero-emission zones, we are at the forefront, aligning our operations with more sustainable solutions.

“The Cambridge hub is evidence of our dedication to serving customers and communities while reducing our footprint on the ground.”

The eQuads will replace the need for two conventional diesel vans, reducing emissions and congestion in the city centre.

A key advantage of the eQuads is their ability to use cycle lanes and dual-use pedestrianised zones, ensuring safe access to areas where cars and trucks are restricted.

This aligns with Cambridge's Clean Air initiative, a citywide effort to reduce emissions in the city centre by promoting more sustainable methods for local deliveries.

The investment in the Cambridge cycle hub supports UPS's global sustainability goals of network decarbonisation.

The UK has long been a testing ground for UPS's sustainable innovation, with the company's Central London package facility featuring a smart charging grid for its electric vehicle fleet.

UPS is also participating in the London Light Freight Walking Trial, part of the Clean Air Logistics for London project, which involves an operator and an electric-assisted walker delivering to recipients in Fitzrovia.

UPS said it has ambitious sustainability goals and has deployed more than 18,300 alternative fuel and advanced technology vehicles serving customers around the world.