Archived News Release: July 22, 2020 - As part of the A2ZERO Carbon Neutrality Initiative, Ann Arbor is announcing the new Community E-bike Discount Program. The program was created to increase the availability and prevalence of electric bicycles (e-bikes) in the Ann Arbor community by creating discounts and incentives for the purchase of certain e-bike models. The program comes as a partnership between the City of Ann Arbor Office of Sustainability and Innovations, Human Electric Hybrids LLC, and Common Cycle, Ann Arbor's non-profit bicycle co-op.
E-bike models within the discount program were chosen because of their reliability, replaceable batteries, comfort for people of various body types and robust warranties. Two e-bike models were selected for discount, the Magnum Pathfinder (MSRP $1,599) and Raleigh Detour iE ST (MSRP $2,599). Both models are road and bike-lane legal, and come ready with accessories including racks, chain guards and lights. Both e-bike models are eligible for a $100 discount plus $50 in-store credit. Less than 100 bicycles are currently available as the program is currently being piloted.
“We are excited to bring this new program to Ann Arborites interested in integrating a more sustainable mode of transit into their lives," says Dr. Missy Stults, sustainability and innovations manager for the City of Ann Arbor. “E-Bikes present a viable options for those looking to move toward less carbon-intensive modes of travel all while enjoying some physical activity on our more than 90 miles of bike lanes and our increasing number of trails."
The City of Ann Arbor is working to achieve carbon neutrality by 2030. Nearly 20% of all community greenhouse gas emissions come from the transportation sector, which, Stults says, is why one primary strategy in A2ZERO is reducing transportation-related emissions. Decreasing reliance on fossil-fuel powered vehicles, increasing use of public transit and increasing micro-mobility options, including making it easier for people to walk and bike, are tools that can help achieve significant emissions reductions in the transportation sector.
To learn more about the Community E-bike Discount Program, visit www.a2gov.org/evs.
The Solarize Ann Arbor program is a key component of the city's A2ZERO carbon neutrality plan, which was unanimously adopted by Ann Arbor City Council June 1, 2020. To learn more about the city's carbon neutrality work, see www.a2zero.org.
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