Transport for London (TfL) has named two winners in its inaugural cargo bike competition.

The winning bikes will be endorsed by TfL for the next 12 months.

TfL worked in partnership with manufacturers, distributors and stockists to host the competition, which was set up to raise the profile of cargo bikes, highlighting their benefits as a sustainable option for deliveries and an alternative to car journeys for families with young children.

Christina Calderato, TfL's head of transport strategy and planning, said: “Switching trips from motorised vehicles to cargo bikes on London's roads is essential if we are to tackle some of the biggest challenges facing the capital. Anyone choosing to ride a cargo bike rather than going by car or van is directly contributing to cleaning up the air we breathe. There is also a huge range of other associated health, practical and economic benefits around choosing to travel in this way.

“The interest in this competition demonstrates just how much choice there is for businesses and families, who are thinking of making the switch to this greener and healthier way of moving goods and travelling around the capital."

Sixteen cargo bikes were put forward for judging by 10 manufacturers.

The eight judges included London's Walking and Cycling commissioner Will Norman and representatives from Mothercare, Sustrans, community cycling groups and family cycling bloggers.

Douze's G4e bike won the Best Cargo Bike – Business category. Judges were particularly impressed with the model's manoeuvrability and comfort and the bike also scored highly across the other judging criteria. Bicicapace Pelican and Harry Vs Larry Bullitt were also highly regarded in this category.

The Bakfiets Long won the Best Cargo Bike – Families category which assessed bikes which are suitable for carrying children. The bike scored highly for its affordability and judges were also impressed by the bike's ease of use. Bicicapace Justlong and Bakfiets Short were also highly regarded in this category.

Norman added: “I’m delighted that this competition has helped showcase how cargo bikes are a greener, cleaner and often faster alternative to polluting cars and vans. We were really impressed with the standard of all the entries, and hope families and businesses will be encouraged to make the switch and help clean up London’s toxic air.”