01 June 2016
From today, all Jersey residents (over the age of 14) will be able to receive a £300 discount off the purchase of an electric bike (ebikes).
The Department for Infrastructure is introducing the discount as part of the car2cycle scheme which supports the aims of the States of Jersey Sustainable Transport Policy by making ebikes more attractive and affordable.
Ebikes are more sustainable as they have zero emissions, there are no parking fees or petrol costs, they offer a healthy alternative for commuting and make cycling easier.
Anyone interested in purchasing an ebike with the £300 discount must complete an application form and take this along with photo identification and proof of address to Sand Street Parking Control or Driver and Vehicle Standards (DVS). Upon receipt of an approved application form, you have four weeks to redeem the discount at participating retailers.
car2cycle scheme
Department for Infrastructure Minister, Deputy Eddie Noel, said “We know from consultation that one of the key barriers to cycling is Jersey’s hills. Ebikes make cycling easy as well as providing a means of active travel. The aim of the car2cycle scheme is to influence a change in behaviour from car use and by providing a discount to the cost of purchasing an ebike we hope that more people will take up cycling, particularly those who may be less active or have a steep hill to tackle getting home!”
Deputy Anne Pryke added “I have been using my electric bike for a while now, and it has kick started me to get out of the car and back into the saddle for my commute. It’s such an enjoyable way to travel, and it gives me an extra push when I need it. Not to mention, I am feeling much fitter and I don’t have to wear lycra!”
Director of Operations at Jersey Post, Andy Jehan, concluded “Following successful trials with two Electric Bikes, Jersey Post have ordered a further 20. These bikes have greater carrying capacity than the traditional cycle and make it much easier for staff to get to and from their delivery routes. With the support of the Department for Intrastructure scheme we will be able to deploy these new cycles rather than increasing the size of our vehicle fleet.
Feedback from our staff who have trialled the electric bikes has been very positive, particularly from those who have to go up hills either on their way to or from their delivery.”
Minister of Health and Social Services said, Senator Andrew Green, “Maintaining a good level of fitness is important for one’s health and wellbeing. Electric bikes can help people who perhaps don’t feel quite fit enough for ordinary bikes, but will still be able to benefit from the exercise.”
Applications forms are available from participating retailers and online
View more information on the discount and car2cycle scheme
gov.je