Jan 15, 2025
Millions for the development of secure bicycle parking
Bikeloop has been awarded 5.9 million in financial support from the research and innovation program of the Ministry of Transport for research on and further development of secure bicycle parking. The company is one of six companies that have been awarded research funds.
UNIQUE OPPORTUNITY: Founder Hedda Heyerdahl sees the support as a unique opportunity.
Bikeloop's funds will be used to develop and test future-oriented, safe, and smart bicycle parking. The project aims to make everyday life easier for cyclists and promote sustainable transport choices. The goal is to increase the cycling share in local areas by developing safe bicycle parking services tailored to users' needs, where they need it. By combining smart technology and secure parking, Bikeloop builds a network that supports cyclists no matter where they are – at home, at work, at the cinema, or during daily activities.
The developments in society, with an increasing number of expensive electric bicycles and heightened focus on sustainability, demand smarter solutions for bicycle parking and related services. Today's solutions do not meet the needs, and many leave their bicycles at home. This project aims to change that. With support from TØI, Bikeloop will collect data to understand which solutions best increase bicycle usage and reduce car dependence.
Bikeloop's project is based on a vision of creating safer and more accessible urban spaces for cyclists through the use of innovative technology. By combining practical solutions with digital innovation, the company aims to lower the threshold for choosing a bicycle as a mode of transport in everyday life. This aligns with the authorities' goals to promote greener and more sustainable transport habits.
– This support gives us a unique opportunity to realize our vision of creating a safer and more accessible urban space for cyclists. We believe that smart and future-oriented solutions like this can be a key to promoting greener transport habits, says Hedda Heyerdahl, founder of Bikeloop.
– It is a challenge to deliver better and safer transport while we must reduce greenhouse gas emissions and the burden on areas and nature. Research and innovation are crucial to succeed with these challenges, and I am pleased to see that Norwegian companies are participating in finding solutions, said Minister of Transport Jon-Ivar Nygård in connection with the announcement of the awards.
Bikeloop is working on testing complementary services such as engagement tools, home delivery of goods, parking booking, bike-sharing, and benefits programs as part of the services related to safe bicycle parking. – At the same time, we are developing a data analysis system, including integration for third-party solutions and collaborating with public and private actors for holistic solutions, to create a seamless journey, says Heyerdahl.
The other projects that have received support are Roadguard AS, Siemens Mobility AS, Telia Norge AS, ISI AS, and Kobla AS. The awards are an important step towards promoting innovation within the Norwegian transport sector and creating sustainable mobility solutions for the future.
