Glasgow City Council says it has been in contact with the delivery firm UPS regarding a pilot e-cargo bike project. First Minister Nicola Sturgeon is reported to have accelerated the scheme so that it will coincide with the 26th UN Climate Change Conference (Cop26) in the city from November 1-12.

Herald Scotland reports that UPS is looking to introduce electric three-wheelers for sustainable, last mile deliveries.

UPS notes recorded in the Scottish Parliament’s lobbying register state: “The First Minister commented that this would fit in with the government’s plans of working with businesses to deliver post-Covid sustainable economic growth.

“She committed to providing UPS with the right contacts at a local government level to pursue this. A call was scheduled with Scottish Enterprise and subsequent calls have occurred with Glasgow City Council to discuss a cycle project to coincide with Cop26.”

A spokesperson from Glasgow Council said: “The objective is to deliver the project for Cop26; the data collected from the pilot will support the choice of a long-term location in Glasgow which will be explored as part of the new city centre strategy.”

The Scottish Government is planning to introduce a low emission zone in Glasgow as well as other major cities. Vehicles that do not meet the minimum standard will face a penalty if they enter.

The LEZ Mobility Fund will provide micro-businesses and sole traders with £2,500 to replace each non-compliant vehicle with a compliant one, such as an electric vehicle or e-cargo bike.

Residents living nearby can also apply for up to two £500 grants to purchase a bike, e-bike or public transport vouchers.