NEW YORK (BRAIN) — The city's free e-bike and battery trade-in program has started for eligible food delivery workers to exchange uncertified devices to reduce fire hazards.
Delivery workers now can receive UL-certified e-bikes and batteries from the city. The trade-in program also allows for exchanges of uncertified e-mopeds and gas-powered mopeds that can't be legally registered with the Department of Motor Vehicles.
The limited supply of e-bikes and lithium-ion batteries are eligible to food delivery workers who:
- Have earned at least $1,500 last year.
- Live in one of the five boroughs.
- Are at least 18-years-old.
- Own and use an eligible mobility device to complete deliveries.
Devices can be traded in included:
- Non-UL-certified e-bikes and e-mopeds with battery, spare batteries, and charger.
- Mopeds that can't be registered with the DMV and lacks a vehicle identification number.
If the number of eligible applicants is greater than the number of available e-bikes, the DOT will hold a lottery. The application period began Monday and closes Feb. 17.
The City Council approved the program in September 2023 in an effort to curb the growing number of lithium-ion battery fires. That same month, the city began requiring all e-bikes, other powered mobility devices, and lithium-ion batteries to meet certification requirements like UL to be sold in the city.
