E-Bike program focuses on equity and environment
Oct 28, 2024
This Multimodal Movement segment on KITV brings awareness to the e-bike and the Hawai‘i Department of Transportation’s (HDOT) rebate program, designed to provide affordable transportation choices for moderate and low-income individuals. Equity and the environment are part of the program’s focus. It makes commuting more affordable, helps reduce traffic, and improves air quality.
“The state is really excited about our program that allows us to subsidize e-bikes and e-mopeds up to $500 or 20% of the purchase price for residents here. It’s a big thing for us,” said Ed Sniffen, HDOT director. “We’d love to be able to expand the transportation choices of people, especially if you can’t afford it. E-bikes and e-mopeds help extend the range that you could travel without jumping in your vehicle.”
While e-bikes are gaining popularity, the HDOT is reminding folks about safety:
- Remember, you must be 15 or older to ride an e-bike.
- Wear a properly fitted helmet.
- Do not ride an electric bicycle or electric moped on any sidewalk.
- Do not “pack” or carry passengers.
- Follow the rules of the road.
For more information on e-bike and e-moped rebate: hidot.hawaii.gov
These Multimodal Movement segments on KITV share information and highlight the benefits of riding the bus, biking, walking and rail, among other options. They also encourage folks to think about changing the way they travel. Viewers see how everyday multimodal transportation users go about their day without having to depend on driving a car, how making the choice is easy, and how it helps to reduce carbon emissions and traffic. The goal is to increase awareness of multimodal transportation choices and encourage residents to change their routines and mindset about getting around.
Another significant benefit of not owning a car is saving money on gas and maintenance. In Hawai‘i, personal vehicle ownership costs an average of $16,200 per household per year, and vehicle ownership costs continue to increase. Factoring in all public costs (state and county expenditures, social and economic trade-offs, and real estate value of land set aside for roadways and parking), the total comes to an estimated $40,600 per household per year.
Watch the Multimodal Movement segment featuring the e-bike. To view more Multimodal Movement videos, click here.