The California E-Bike Incentive Project, offering up to $2,000 in vouchers for new electric bikes, officially opened for applications on Wednesday. This initiative aims to promote zero-emission transportation and prioritize residents with the greatest need, according to the California Air Resources Board (CARB).
Partnering with over 20 community-based organizations, CARB will facilitate outreach and provide assistance to applicants. E-bikes are lauded by transportation experts as eco-friendly alternatives to cars, offering commuters exercise and the ability to travel greater distances than traditional bicycles.
Here’s everything you need to know about the program:
Who Can Apply?
To qualify, applicants must:
- Be California residents aged 18 or older.
- Meet income requirements:
- Priority applicants with an annual household income below 225% of the federal poverty level (FPL), or $33,885 for individuals, can receive the maximum voucher amount of $2,000.
- Applicants with income under 300% of the FPL, or $45,180, qualify for a base incentive of $1,750.
- Live in disadvantaged or low-income communities, as defined by CARB and the California Office of Environmental Health Hazard Assessment, to receive priority status.
For more details on income thresholds, visit the E-Bike Incentive Project’s website.
How to Apply
Applications can be submitted online starting Wednesday, December 18, at 6 p.m. PST. Processing is on a first-come, first-served basis.
For paper applications or applications in languages other than English or Spanish, email your name, address, and requested language to info@ebikeincentives.org. Paper applications can be returned by U.S. mail or email and must be postmarked or timestamped between December 18 and January 1, 2025.
Application Review Timeline
The review process can take up to 60 days. Applicants must receive their voucher before purchasing an e-bike, as vouchers cannot be applied retroactively. Approved applicants will also need to watch a safety video to finalize the process.
Eligible E-Bikes
The program covers e-bikes with motors of 750 watts or less. A full list of eligible bikes is available at ebikeincentives.org.
Cost of E-Bikes
E-bikes typically range from $600 to $4,000, with the average cost around $2,000, according to Consumer Reports.
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Voucher Usage
Vouchers can be applied to the cost of an e-bike and related accessories such as:
- Helmets
- Bike locks
- Racks and baskets
- Fenders
- Mirrors
- Reflective clothing
- Lights
- Assembly and delivery fees
Accessories must be purchased at the same time as the e-bike, and the voucher cannot be used for separate accessory purchases.
Redemption Details
Vouchers must be redeemed at an approved retailer within 45 days of approval. If the e-bike is unavailable during this window, a one-time extension of 45 days can be requested.
Waitlist Information
A waitlist will only be created if there is a short gap between the depletion of funds and the availability of new funding. Updates about future waitlists will be posted on the program’s website.
Missed the Application Window?
New application windows will open every 3-4 months. During the first window, 1,500 vouchers will be awarded. Future windows will be announced on the program’s website.
More Questions?
For additional information, email info@ebikeincentives.org.
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