E-Bike Rebates Could Deliver Big Benefits

Mo cycling, mo money.

A new UBC study shows B.C.’s income-based e-bike rebates are making active travel more affordable, accessible, and sustainable. Rebates of $350–$1,400 helped up to 60% of participants buy an e-bike they otherwise wouldn’t have.

After a year, recipients biked 40 km more per week and drove 17 km less, cutting emissions by 17%, boosting physical activity by 13%, and reducing travel costs by 12%. The program also generated $8.7 million in new retail revenue from $6.5 million in rebates.

“E-bikes bring benefits to users in cost, mobility and physical activity. But the impacts of this rebate program are also more broad, with societal benefits of reduced emissions, replacement of car trips, and generated revenue.”

— Dr. Meghan Winters

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