California launched a new incentive that will provide income-eligible Californians up to $2,000 toward the purchase of a new e-bike – the latest example of how the state is expanding access to zero-emissions transportation options to residents who need the boost the most.
The California E-bike Incentive Project was launched in partnership with more than 20 community-based organizations that will do outreach and provide application assistance. Once approved, income-eligible individuals can redeem the voucher from retailers at the point of purchase. A rider safety video is provided and required before collecting the voucher.
Application for the voucher requires proof of income, among other things, and is only available to people 18 and older.
E-bikes feature a battery and electric motor that can be activated to assist with pedaling, increasing the ease to travel longer distances. The California legislature appropriated funding for the e-bike project to help lower cost barriers to a technology that can help replace car trips, reducing greenhouse gas emissions and lowering transportation costs for low-income Californians. According to the Institute for Transportation & Development Policy, e-bikes can be a suitable alternative to car travel, particularly for shorter trips.
The first installment of the launch offers $3 million to help fund up to 1,500 e-bikes. During an initial pilot, key aspects of the program were tested in four locations across California that face disproportionate environmental burdens – Barrio Logan in San Diego, East Bay Area, downtown Fresno and in partnership with a few tribal governments.
The e-bike project is the latest incentive program to prioritize equitable outcomes so that low-income residents are not left behind as we move toward a zero-emissions future. In September, California launched a new income-based grant and loan assistance program to help with the purchase of clean vehicles. A recently approved funding plan focuses incentive resources on supporting small businesses with the switch to cleaner technology for their fleets.
The program started accepting applications on Dec. 18, and they will be processed in the order received until vouchers are exhausted. Eligible applicants will be notified of the receipt of the voucher, which can then be used at participating retailers.
For more details, visit: www.ebikeincentives.org.
