E-bikes scheme a wheel success story

Tuesday 20 September 2016

Pedal power is winning the battle with petrol as the ‘car2cycle’ scheme has now seen more than double the response expected.

The States’ scheme to get more people out of their cars and into the saddle started in June. Around 320 people have already applied for the e-bikes in just four months, even though the States were hoping for around 150 a year.

It offers a £300 discount off the costs of a new electric bike as part of the car2cycle scheme, aimed at reducing the numbers of cars in Jersey’s roads. 

Deputy Noel said: “I’m pleased to say it has been a huge success. To get over 320 people signed up already, when we were expecting about 150 a year over the next three years, shows how well it has been received. 

“I’m delighted with the scheme and I think it is a very good use of money. We have got to try and bring about a change in behaviour so that using an e-bike as a form of transport becomes commonplace. 

“I know of one family which had two cars and a motorbike and they have got rid of one of their cars and the motorbike, so now all they have is one car and their e-bikes. They have been delighted with the scheme.

“I hope many more decide to go for it. It is a brilliant way to travel and at the same time you are getting a healthy work-out as well.”

Anyone over the age of 14 can apply to the scheme and the e-bikes have zero emissions, involve no parking fees and no petrol costs.  

The e-bikes range in price from around £900 up to £3-4,000 and the States’ grant is for 20% of the bike’s cost, up to a maximum of £300. 

If you fancy a discount off an e-bike you'll find an application form here. Take it along with a photo and proof of address to Sand Street Parking Control or to Driver and Vehicle Standards and you'll have four weeks to redeem the discount at retailers participating in the scheme.