On the occasion of our first tenth birthday, we would like to take stock of the evolution of lifestyles and our reference market in this decade.
When we were born, 10 years ago, the idea of creating eco-friendly charging stations that use solar energy might have seemed futuristic and not ready for the market at the time. Our idea, however, was not just a happy and casual intuition. It was the result of a vision that progress towards smart and eco-friendly solutions had to be foreseen, accompanied and encouraged.
Over the last ten years, Italian cycling mobility has significantly changed due to a growing awareness of sustainability, well-being and infrastructures for bicycles. This trend is part of the European framework for the promotion of cycling, in which Italy has committed to targeted policies and significant investments, at urban and extra-urban level, through the creation of dedicated infrastructures and the promotion of “soft mobility” (PG Mobilità Ciclista e …)(RapportoMobilita2023_Def).
Growth of Cycling Mobility: a Widespread Phenomenon
Since 2014, the number of Italians who have chosen the bicycle as a means of transport has increased steadily. The 20th Report on the Mobility of Italians highlights that cycling and pedestrian infrastructures have grown, especially in cities and metropolitan areas. Milan, Turin and Bologna, for example, have distinguished themselves as leading cities in promoting cycling, implementing integrated and safe cycling networks (RapportoMobilita2023_Def).
One of the main factors that has contributed to the spread of bicycle use has been the development of tourist and urban cycle paths. Projects such as the National Network of Tourist Cycle Paths (RCN) and the integration of urban cycle paths have encouraged the use of bicycles for daily travel and for sustainable tourism (PG Mobilità Ciclista e …). The initiative of the General Plan for Cycling Mobility of 2022-2024 is an example of national efforts to promote greener and more accessible mobility (PG Mobilità Ciclista e …).
Environmental and Social Benefits
The increase in cycling mobility has had important environmental and social impacts. Cycling significantly reduces greenhouse gas emissions, especially in urban areas, where most short trips are concentrated. In addition, improved infrastructure has contributed to greater road safety, making the cycling environment more attractive and safe for all age groups (PG Mobilità Ciclista e …) (RapportoMobilita2023_Def).
In particular, the increase in cycle tourism has favored the economic development of rural areas and small towns. Cycle tourism allows you to reach territories that are less accessible by other means of transport, contributing to the revitalization of local economies. This has also been possible thanks to the construction of support infrastructures, such as bicycle rest stations, e-bike charging and service areas along cycle paths (PG Mobilità Ciclista e …).
Infrastructure and Intermodality
Infrastructure dedicated to cycling mobility has seen a strong increase. Cycle paths have been integrated with other public transport systems to facilitate intermodality, allowing cyclists to combine the use of the bicycle with means of transport such as trains and buses (PG Mobilità Ciclista e …). This strategy not only improves accessibility, but also the flexibility of travel, making the bicycle a convenient choice for the “first and last mile” (PG Mobilità Ciclista e …).
Future Prospects
Looking to the future, the Italian cycling model aims to further increase the share of bicycle trips through the improvement of the infrastructure network, safety and cultural promotion of the use of two wheels. The Sustainable Urban Mobility Plans (PUMS) will continue to play a central role in the evolution of this trend (PG Mobilità Ciclista and …).
In Summary
Over the past decade, Italy has made significant strides in promoting cycling mobility, through targeted policies and investments in infrastructure. This evolution reflects a greater focus on sustainability, social well-being and economic development in less connected areas. The bicycle, once considered only a means of leisure, is now a fundamental pillar of sustainable mobility in the country.
As far as we are Concerned
In light of these data, the facts now prove us right. The use of electric vehicles is becoming increasingly popular and, in the context of personal mobility, the use of electric bicycles or scooters characterizes both urban and leisure travel.
Our Story
In these 10 years of activity we have carried out approximately 200 installations of charging stations throughout the country, analyzing the contexts and designing ad hoc solutions for each individual intervention. Solar e-bike charging is our main sector. Our stations, columns, solar panel charging benches are distinguished by their ease of installation (they are not connected to an electrical system) and flexibility of use.
The Added Value
Our charging stations can be equipped with various optional features that are functional for the client Public Administration but also, and above all, for the citizen who uses them. For those who are often on the move, it is essential to be able to count on a public charging station: charging of their cell phones and tablets, emergency calls, surveillance cameras, Wi-Fi connection point.
Our smart charging technologies, integrated into public infrastructures, are designed to make cyclists’ stops more comfortable and functional, both in parks, along cycle paths or in the city, offering the possibility of charging their vehicle, or smartphone, in public in a practical and safe way.
Useful and Ecological
Our charging stations are designed to ensure that your smartphone or other mobile device never runs out of power. In a square, a park or along a cycle path, even in the mountains, you will be able to find a public charging point to deal with any eventuality.
All this without neglecting sustainability, and this is why we offer ecological solar-powered solutions for outdoor activities: practical wireless battery charging stations, which also represent a meeting point between technology and street furniture.
Advanced Options
Thanks to the integration with IoT technology, our Smart City technological stations can offer advanced services such as the environmental sensor platform to monitor air quality or collect useful data to improve the livability of spaces. Our smart public lighting solutions and technological street furniture transform public places into real technological hubs for sustainable mobility.
Our Products
A range aimed at making outdoor spaces easier and more convenient to use, at the service of users who need to recharge their personal devices while paying attention to energy saving and the well-being of our planet.
Do you want to find out more about GaraGeeks and environmental sustainability products? Contact us .