A Taste of Commuting: Promoting Sustainable Transportation in the Antwerp Transport Region
The Pendelproeverij, or "A Taste of Commuting," is an exciting initiative designed to encourage sustainable and alternative transportation methods in the Antwerp Transport Region. With growing environmental concerns and the need for efficient mobility solutions, this program provided residents and employees in the area a chance to try out various transportation options for free over four weeks. The ultimate goal is to inspire lasting changes in commuting habits, benefiting both the environment and overall quality of life. While a similar program already existed for companies within Antwerp, this initiative now expands to the entire Antwerp Transport Region.
The Pendelproeverij is a collaboration between Lantis and B2Bike BV. Lantis focused on mobility projects in the Antwerp region, including the Oosterweel link, park-and-ride facilities, bike-sharing systems, and cycling infrastructure. These projects aim to benefit drivers, cyclists, and commuters by promoting sustainable travel and improving the overall transportation network.
Transportation Options Offered by Pendelproeverij
The Pendelproeverij provides a variety of transportation choices, such as:
Speed pedelecs;
Electric bikes;
Electric cargo bikes;
Folding bikes;
City bikes;
Public transport and shared mobility subscriptions;
P+R tickets;
A combination of the above.
Participants can also select accessories like child seats, bike bags, helmets, and reflective vests to enhance their commuting experience.
One highlight of the Pendelproeverij is the opportunity to test speed pedelecs – high-performance electric bikes that can reach speeds of up to 45 km/h (28 mph). Participants can also experience the convenience of electric cargo bikes for transporting children or carrying groceries. Additionally, temporary subscriptions are offered for various public transport options like buses, trains, bike-sharing systems, water transportation, bike rentals, and Park & Ride facilities. This allows participants to optimise their daily commute and reduce their carbon footprint by combining different transportation modes.
Benefits and Impact of Pendelproeverij
The Pendelproeverij is entirely free for participants, and all bikes and accessories provided during the trial period were insured against damage and theft. To ensure safety, the Flemish Foundation for Traffic Safety set up a test course for participants to familiarise themselves with electric motors, cargo bike cornering, and speed pedelec braking power. Participants could also opt for a combination of choices, making it more convenient to combine different transport modes. The program's impact was also monitored through participant surveys before and after the trial period.
Nearly 500 participants
In May 2023, the first official Pendelproeverij was launched at the Wommelgem business park in the presence of Koen Kennis, the chairman of the Antwerp Transport Region, following a successful test run at Lantis. This innovative program attracted 69 participants from 5 companies, who were eager to explore the various Pendelproeverij options.
The enthusiasm continued in June, as round two commenced in Brasschaat at Campus Coppens, a business park, and the AZ Klina Hospital. The hospital staff’s interest was so immense that a second opportunity to participate was arranged for August.
In the fall, the Pendelproeverij was also offered to two municipalities and companies. From 2024, the program will alternate between municipalities and companies, ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to experience the benefits of the Pendelproeverij.To date, more than 500 participants have been captivated and have tested different options. Together they biked more than 109,000 km, saved more than 14,000 kg CO2 and burned approximately 800,000 calories.
Author: Franziska Kupfer (Lantis, Transport Region Antwerp)
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