E-bikes will become more affordable for residents of British Columbia in the near future.
Starting June 1, B.C residents older than 19 will be able to claim a rebate for their e-bike purchase.
The minimum cost for an e-bike is currently $2,000 before taxes and rebates could cover as much as 70 per cent of this amount, depending on a person’s income.
Residents who make less than $38,950 per year can receive a rebate of up to $1,400. Those making between $38,951 and $51,130 are eligible for a rebate of $1,000. Residents with an annual salary of $51,131 or more would get a rebate of $350.
“E-bikes add a new dimension to everyday travel, even in rural communities,” stated executive director of the BC Cycling Coalition Michael Koski in a press release. “For those struggling with the cost of a car, this funding will provide wider access to a transportation option that is affordable, efficient and eco-friendly. E-bikes make cycling accessible to a wider range of people, improve personal health and help smaller communities by making more people mobile.”
The province is investing more than than $6 million into rebates in order to encourage the use of active transporation and public transit as part of its CleanBC climate goals. The government estimates that up to 9,000 people will be able to lower the cost of e-bike purchases with this rebate program.
The province is partnering with HUB Cycling to provide the Streetwise Cycling Program, which will offer online and in-person programs on bike-handling skills like hand signals, route planning, balancing and manoeuvring.
Businesses can continue to access the e-cargo bike rebate through the Specialty Use Vehicle Incentive.
For more information on the rebate visit bcbikerebates.ca
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