The Slovenian Police officially received five Elan Mantis 1 electric bicycles today from Elan, marking a step toward greener and more efficient mobility in busy urban centres and popular tourist destinations. The handover ceremony took place at Elan’s headquarters in Begunje na Gorenjskem.
The event was attended by Mirko Nunić, Director of the Uniformed Police Directorate, Matjaž Leskovar, Head of the Traffic Safety Development and Planning Department within the Traffic Police Sector, and Damijan Kravanja from the Uniformed Police Directorate, along with representatives of Elan. Also present were the police officers who will be using the new bicycles in their daily patrol duties. Citizens may soon encounter them on cycling routes in areas under the jurisdiction of the police stations in Kranjska Gora, Bled, Ljubljana Center, and Koper/Piran. Thе occasion also served to highlight the role of bicycle patrol officers and raise awareness about cyclist safety, given that cyclists are among the more vulnerable road users.
Challenges
Cycling has grown increasingly popular in Slovenia in recent years, both as a daily mode of transport and as a recreational activity. The success of Slovenian athletes has further encouraged the public to take up cycling, contributing to environmental sustainability. Sales of bicycles, particularly electric ones, have risen notably. However, this trend also brings increased road safety concerns. Matjaž Leskovar emphasized: “Cyclists are among the more vulnerable traffic participants. Although fatalities among cyclists have declined over the past decade, the number of injuries has slightly increased. In about 60 percent of accidents involving cyclists, they are actually the ones who caused the incident.”
Traffic
In the Slovenian Police, bicycles are used for a wide range of patrol duties, especially in larger cities, parks, and tourist areas, as well as along cycling paths. Police cyclists focus on areas with higher safety concerns and are particularly visible in communities, helping to deter crime and increase public trust. This form of mobility proves especially effective where traditional vehicle patrols are not feasible. The police also regularly engage in preventive activities with the community, and bicycle patrols help bring policing closer to the people. “We are implementing specific training for our officers to ensure safe and confident cycling,” said Leskovar. “We welcome individuals who are passionate about cycling and wish to combine it with a career in law enforcement. We aim to acquire high-quality bicycles and gear to make patrols even safer and more engaging.”
The event also provided an opportunity to share best practices regarding cyclist safety and the use of protective gear.