As Portland's bike-friendly identity continues to shape local policy, infrastructure and beyond, corporations are taking note. Where Uber brought a "pedal" option and Nike planted their bright orange Biketown flag, UPS has launched their first "eBike" program in the U.S. right here in the Rose City.

“Portland, like all cities, is looking for ways to fight urban congestion and pollution,” said Portland Mayor, Charlie Hales. “It’s great when a company like UPS brings us a unique solution that will help us combat climate change and protect the environment.”



In an effort to streamline sustainable delivery methods in urban areas, the tricycle design you may soon see cruising along Portland's streets got its start across the Atlantic in Hamburg, Germany, as part of a pilot program in 2012, according to a statement from UPS. But that wasn't the first time UPS has tried using pedal power -- The company deploys standard bicycles seasonally here in town, and it's actually how the company got its start in the early 1900s.

“Early in our 109 year history, UPS operated as a bike messenger company,” said Mark Wallace, UPS senior vice president of global engineering and sustainability. “While we have evolved and developed a vast network of ground and air vehicles, the bicycle may be making a comeback as we navigate through crowded urban areas and continue our focus on environmental sustainability.”

In Hamburg, UPS set up centrally-located storage for the electronically-assisted tricycles to use as pick-up locations. This will likely be a template for what's to come in Portland. And, if it works here, the company's statement said additional U.S. cities might see an eBike fleet roll in come 2017.

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