Electric Bikes Are Soaring in Sales
Genevieve Fraser
· 3 min read
While electric bicycle sales have long been experiencing
significant increases around the world
, never before has the United States seen the kind of growth that has been recorded during the coronavirus
pandemic.The
World Economic Forum
reported that from 2019 to 2020, there was a 145% increase in electric bicycle sales in the U.S.So, what is making electric bikes so popular?
Why electric bikes?
Bicycles have become a go-to option for many who prefer not to drive, use rideshare services, or take public transport, for whatever reason.
If given the choice, many would probably look for alternatives to crowded buses where they risk exposure to COVID-19. The use of bikes in general promotes effective social distancing.
Others want to reduce their
carbon footprint
, and a bicycle provides an excellent option that is both cleaner and more affordable than a car. Electric bikes can enable you to travel faster than purely pedal-powered ones, and with less exertion, especially if you are travelling longer distances.Let Jerry find your price in only 45 seconds
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Electric bikes can be pricey
You might be surprised by the price tags on many of the electric bicycles out there. Some can be upwards of 10 grand, but according to
Electrek
, there are still lots of great bikes at more affordable prices. You could likely find a respectable option for between $1,000-$2,000.However,
Electric Ride Lab
explains that although e-bikes can be pricey, they are definitely worth it. The money that you might spend on fueling a gas-powered car for a year would likely cover the upfront costs, and charging the bike costs next-to-nothing.The U.S is looking into an e-bike rebate
A rebate program might be on the horizon for those looking to more affordably purchase an electric bike. Electrek shares that a newly-proposed bill sees consumers receiving a rebate of 30% (or a maximum of $1,500) on e-bikes costing no more than $8,000.
This is a good move to get people out of vehicles and onto e-bikes, reducing emissions and preventing the further spread of COVID-19.
With such massive e-bike sales growth, there is a need for the public and private sectors to collaborate on regulations for safer cycling, facilitate cycle-share schemes, and introduce convenient charging points.
As the world grapples with the effects of climate change, we need to look to a low-carbon future, and e-bikes can certainly help with this transition.
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