Source: FSJA

Mayor Adams announces New York City’s e-bike trade-in program

New York City Mayor Eric Adams has introduced the final regulations for the city’s pioneering e-bike and lithium-ion battery trade-in program—the first of its kind in the U.S.

The program provides an opportunity for eligible food delivery workers to trade in unsafe e-bikes and batteries for certified, high-quality alternatives. Part of the broader “Charge Safe, Ride Safe” initiative, this program aims to mitigate risks associated with uncertified lithium-ion batteries and enhance street safety.

With a goal to reduce e-bike-related fires and illegal mopeds on the streets, the program has already contributed to a decline in injuries and fatalities. In 2024, 222 battery-related fires led to 88 injuries and four fatalities, a reduction from the 14 deaths during the same period last year.

Mayor Adams stated: “My top priority is keeping New Yorkers safe, and that includes from new and emerging threats like the dangers posed by uncertified lithium-ion batteries.” He highlighted the program’s dual focus on protecting delivery workers and minimising fire risks.

Program details: replacing unsafe e-bikes and batteries

The $2 million program allows New York City delivery workers to exchange uncertified e-bikes and lithium-ion batteries for UL-certified alternatives, which meet national safety standards. Recognising that many workers need two batteries to operate daily, the program provides participants with one certified e-bike and two compatible batteries.

Deputy Mayor for Operations Meera Joshi emphasised that while e-bikes are essential in reducing pollution, they must not compromise safety. The program aims to provide safe, zero-emission e-bikes for workers, ensuring peace of mind for them and their communities.

The Department of Transportation (DOT) will manage the program. Commissioner Ydanis Rodriguez explained, “This program will do this while also protecting all New Yorkers from deadly fires“.

Eligibility and application process

To qualify, applicants must meet criteria which include:

• New York City resident.

• Own an eligible e-bike or lithium-ion battery.

• Earning at least $1,500 as a food delivery worker in 2024.

• 18 years old and over.

Applications will open in early 2025, with a DOT awareness campaign to inform eligible participants about the program.

Alongside the trade-in program, DOT is expanding bike lanes, piloting public e-bike charging stations, and promoting safe e-bike practices to encourage safer, greener e-mobility.

Regulatory and infrastructure changes

New York City also plans to introduce new regulations allowing e-bike charging and battery-swapping cabinets on public sidewalks. These installations, currently prohibited, will require FDNY and Department of Buildings approval to meet safety standards.

Council-member Keith Powers, who supported Local Law 131 that led to the program’s creation, endorsed the initiative as a critical investment in e-bike safety. Public charging station pilots from companies like Popwheels and Swobbee are already showing positive impacts, reducing the need for home charging and increasing safety.

Widespread support for the initiative

The trade-in program has gained strong support from city and state officials. FDNY Commissioner Robert S. Tucker stressed the importance of removing uncertified lithium-ion devices from city streets, noting that the initiative enhances safety for delivery workers and the general public.

New York State Senator Cordell Cleare also praised the program’s role in preventing fire-related incidents while also emphasising, “While that is a reduction from the 18 deaths last year, it is still four deaths too many.“

Other council members, including Carlina Rivera and Oswald Feliz, also voiced their support for the initiative. Council-member Rivera further emphasised the importance of expanding public charging stations to support safe e-bike usage across the city,