E-Bikes Are Good For You & Lower Transportation Emissions Too! - CleanTechnica

The article discusses the positive impacts of British Columbia’s 2023 e-bike rebate program, which offered income-based incentives ranging from $350 to $1,400 to encourage electric bicycle purchases. A survey led by Alex Bigazzi, a civil engineering professor at the University of British Columbia, found that the program made cycling a viable travel option for a broader demographic, especially lower-income individuals who previously faced cost barriers. Participants reduced their car usage by an average of 17 kilometers per week while increasing e-bike travel by 40 kilometers weekly, mainly for commuting and errands. This shift led to a 17% annual reduction in travel-related emissions (about 1,000 tonnes of CO2), a 12% decrease in travel costs, and a 13% rise in physical activity. The rebates lowered e-bike purchase costs by 43%, boosting retailer revenue and demonstrating cost-effectiveness comparable to electric vehicle incentives but without the downsides of increased driving and congestion. The article also highlights broader urban planning implications