Pictured above: Huw Evans, environmental manager for Keele University

Staff at Keele University are trialling a brand new power-assisted bike this week, in a bid to reduce car use and carbon emissions on campus. 

Gliding through Keele University's green spaces, environmental manager Huw Evans is promoting cycling the easy way with a free trial arranged by Lichfield-based electric bike specialist PowaStation. Tackling steep hills with the touch of a button and not a bead of sweat in sight, the brand new Urban Mover UM36 U-Glider is the green alternative to the car, providing economical, green transport with a boost of extra power to help staff around campus as well as travelling to and from work.

Evans said: "Keele University is committed to protecting the environment and promoting sustainability. We're looking for ways to encourage our staff and students to leave their cars at home, even it's just for one day a week. 

"There are a variety of options ranging from car share schemes to cycle clubs, but for people that don't 'do' cycling, this electric bike from PowaStation could be the answer."

PowaStation director Graham Green added: "We've offered Keele University this trial to help demonstrate how electric bikes really can make cycling easy for everyone. Suitable for all ages, all abilities and with no insurance or license required, an electric bike is the ideal hybrid. Many of us are put off by the backbreaking hills we encounter on our daily journeys, but these bikes make your daily commute a breeze."