Citkar: Telekom tests Loadster in service

Deutsche Telekom AG has put the four-wheeled E-Cargobike Citkar Loadster into test operation at its Münster and Berlin locations. Telekom has been piloting alternative mobility concepts in service since 2017 and aims to gather insights on which alternative drives 8,000 technicians in the field could use to complete their 30,000 daily assignments while arriving punctually at customers' locations.

"The colleagues should reach the customers quickly, comfortably, and efficiently. This should happen in an environmentally and resource-friendly manner. Cargo bikes offer the possibility to bypass traffic jams without further burdening inner cities and can park directly at the customer's location," explains the Berlin cargo bike manufacturer of the requirement profile.

In addition to e-bikes and electric vehicles, Telekom is also testing scooters. However, the advantage of the Loadster lies in its high load capacity, allowing technicians to carry tools, materials, and measuring devices. Thanks to the driver’s cabin, it can also be used in worse weather conditions.

"Citkar's goal is to improve urban mobility with solutions that bring added value and enthusiasm. We are particularly pleased that Telekom wants to test the possibilities of our cargo bike in everyday customer service operations," comments CEO and founder Jonas Kremer.

Otherwise, the Berlin start-up company reports the successful launch of sales through the nationwide network of the bicycle dealer "Lucky Bike," where various models can be configured and ordered online. The range extends from the "Pure" pick-up without a cabin for 10,115 euros with an open platform to the "Max Box" with a large 1.35m³ GfrP cargo box and a payload of 230 kilos and two 800-Wh batteries for 18,800 euros. Additionally, the company points to the new subsidy from the state of Brandenburg for commercially used cargo bikes of up to 4,000 euros.