ISCycle – Supporting an inclusive and sustainable transition away from fossil fuel transport
This research project explores the impact of short-term e-bike loans in workplace settings and is aimed at individuals often excluded from existing schemes, such as caregivers, people with disabilities and those outside standard employment.
About the project
ISCycle is a research initiative based at the University of Limerick, jointly funded by the SEAI and the Department of Transport. It supports an inclusive and sustainable transition away from fossil fuel transport by enabling broader access to low-carbon mobility. The project includes two strands: ISCycle 1 explores the impact of short-term e-bike loans in workplace settings. While ISCycle 2 focuses on inclusion, targeting individuals often excluded from existing schemes. Individuals such as caregivers, people with disabilities, and those outside standard employment.
Participants receive tailored e-bikes, accessories, and training, with support matched to their specific transport needs. The multidisciplinary team uses research methods to assess impacts on behaviour, sustainability, and equity. ISCycle also explores circular design and lifecycle management of e-bikes. The project generates actionable evidence for policy and aims to create scalable models for low-carbon, inclusive transport across Ireland.
Problems the project addressed
The project addresses urgent gaps in Ireland’s clean energy transition by promoting e-bike adoption as an accessible, low-carbon transport alternative to private cars. Despite their potential, e-bikes face barriers such as high cost, safety concerns, limited infrastructure and exclusion of certain populations from existing schemes (e.g., those outside standard employment).
ISCycle 1 delivers short-term e-bike loans in workplace settings, providing participants with tailored bikes, accessories, and cycle training for 4–12 weeks. ISCycle 2 focuses on inclusion, working directly with underrepresented groups, such as caregivers and older adults in disadvantaged areas. This is managed through co-design workshops and community partnerships to develop more equitable access models.
Results
Both strands use a robust, mixed-methods approach combining GPS tracking, validated surveys, and qualitative data to assess behavioural, environmental, and social outcomes. Preliminary results demonstrate strong impacts:
- 69% reported increased cycling frequency
- 55% used routes they hadn’t cycled before
- Non-cyclists pre-loan showed the largest gains in active travel
- 78% agreed ebikes could replace car use for commuting; 70% for leisure trips
- 37% of participants planned to purchase an ebike after the trial
Participants also expressed strong pro-environmental attitudes, with 76% stating they cycle because they believe in the importance of active travel. The project also pioneers research on ebike durability, repairability, and Ireland’s waste system readiness- advancing circular economy integration. By embedding equity, sustainability, and policy insight, ISCycle provides a scalable, evidence-based model for inclusive low-carbon mobility across Ireland.