Electric bikes can help cut urban pollution and give employees a more efficient way of getting back to work while avoiding public transport, according to a study.
British researchers cited evidence from Denmark that found e-bikes have already helped offer faster ways of travelling longer distances.
The study, by the Oxford University-based centre for research into energy demand solutions, comes as the Government seeks ways to get people to work while reducing exposure to Covid-19.
The research suggests e-bikes would cut congestion and could be beneficial in areas where residents cannot afford a car and public transport is patchy.
But even the cheapest hybrid models with a 20-mile range cost £600, while hire-bike users can quickly rack up fees.
Centre director Professor Nick Eyre told BBC News: “E-bikes give us an exciting new opportunity to reduce energy use and carbon emissions.
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"They need to be part of the plan for the major investment we need in transport to get people moving safely again.”
