California E-Bike Incentive Program: Vouchers Up To $2,000

The California E-Bike Incentive Program is a groundbreaking initiative aimed at making environmentally-friendly transportation accessible and affordable to all, especially residents in disadvantaged and low-income communities. By offering point-of-sale voucher incentives for the purchase of electric bicycles (e-bikes), the program not only promotes sustainable transportation but also aims to improve air quality and reduce greenhouse gas emissions across the state.

How the California E-Bike Incentive Program Works

To participate in the "E-bike incentive vouchers for income-qualified Californians" program, California residents must be at least 18 years old and earn a gross annual household income below 300% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL). Eligible applicants stand to receive up to $1,000 in incentives, with additional provisions for those qualifying under more stringent financial criteria, including the purchase of cargo and adaptive e-bikes. The process to access these benefits starts with an online application that gathers essential details, checks residency, and confirms income levels. Approved applicants receive an e-bike incentive voucher, which can be redeemed at participating retailers. 

Benefits of Participating in the Program

The program offers numerous benefits, from environmental advantages like reduced vehicle emissions to personal health and economic benefits. By encouraging the switch to e-bikes, the program not only promotes a healthier lifestyle through increased physical activity but also contributes to the economic well-being of individuals and families by offering an affordable transportation option. Additionally, it plays a crucial role in reducing traffic congestion, further contributing to environmental conservation.

How to Get Involved

Interested individuals can first learn about the voucher process. The application process is straightforward, with eligibility based on residency, age, and income criteria. Once approved, applicants will have 45 days to redeem their voucher, with an additional 45-day extension upon request. The program also emphasizes the importance of safety and maintenance, offering resources and encouraging the purchase of e-bike-related accessories like helmets and locks to ensure a safe and enjoyable riding experience.

Retailers Approved to Meet E-Bike Eligibility: Mokwheel

Mokwheel, as a leading brand in the electric bike market, has being included in the California E-Bike Incentive Program. Mokwheel's lineup, featuring models like Basalt, Scoria, Tor Plus, Mesa Plus ST, Asphalt, and Mesa Lite, offers something for everyone. Below are specifications of the six Mokwheel electric bikes eligible for the program:

Each of these Mokwheel e-bikes is designed with the rider in mind, featuring adjustable suspension, intelligent pedal assist, and durable 6061 aluminum alloy frames. From the solar charging capabilities of Basalt and Scoria to the budget-friendly Mesa Lite, Mokwheel ensures high quality, durability, and performance across its range. With prices ranging from $899 to $1,699 and the potential to receive up to $2,000 in incentives through the program, acquiring a Mokwheel e-bike becomes an even more attractive proposition for Californians.

FAQs about the E-Bike Incentive Program

What items are eligible to be covered by the incentive voucher?

Incentive funds can be applied as a discount at the time of purchase towards the cost of an e-bike that meets program criteria, and e-bike related accessories including– helmets, bike locks, racks, fenders, reflective clothing, and any sales taxes associated with these purchases.

Eligible accessories must be purchased at the same time as the voucher redemption for the e-bike. The incentive voucher cannot be used in a separate purchase of e-bike accessories.

Can the voucher be combined with other incentives?

Yes, but not with other CARB-led incentive programs. The total cannot exceed the e-bike's purchase price.

How much funding is available?

$7.5 million is available for e-bike incentive vouchers.

How will the incentive funds be distributed?

Applications will be accepted online on a first-come, first-serve basis. They will be processed with a hybrid needs-based methodology. Once approved, program participants will use the incentive voucher to purchase a new, eligible e-bike from approved retailers who will issue the voucher as a point-of-sale discount.

It is important to note that the California E-Bike Incentive Project is not a rebate program. Consumers must apply and be approved prior to purchasing an e-bike. No reimbursement for the purchase of an e-bike will be made prior to being approved for a voucher.

Will the needs-based methodology include prioritization for applicants?

Yes, the program will create a $5 million set-aside for priority applicants.

Priority will be given to:

Applicants who either live in a disadvantaged community or low-income community, or Applicants who have an income at or below 225% of FPL.

How will the $5 million set-aside work?

The first $2.5 million of funding will be open to all eligible applicants. Once $2.5 million is exhausted, the remaining $5 million will be limited to priority applicants.

If I miss the first round of funding, will a waiting list be established?

A waiting or reservation list will only be created if there is a short amount of time expected between when funding is exhausted and new funding becomes available.  Information about any potential future waiting or reservation list will be provided on the program website.

Can I submit a receipt for an e-bike I previously purchased?

No. Incentives cannot be applied retroactively.

How Will I Redeem A Voucher?

California E-Bike Incentive Project participants are eligible for an incentive at the point of sale, so the participant will already be approved when they come to shop at your retail location or online web store. You can help the participant redeem their incentive by following these steps.

1. Verify the approval notification

Each approved applicant will bring their approval notification containing a voucher code with their ID for you to verify with them.

Login to the retailer portal to check:

- The name on identification and incentive voucher match.

- The incentive voucher has not expired.

- The incentive voucher has not already been redeemed.

- The approved incentive voucher amount.

- Their education requirements have been met

2. Verify the eligibility of the e-bike

This checklist outlines e-bike eligibility criteria.

Selected e-bike:

- Is a new (not used) electric bike

- Is class 1, 2 or 3 with operable pedals

- Has an electric motor of less than or equal to 750 watts

- Has integrated front and rear lights

- Has a minimum one-year manufacturer warranty on all electrical components

- Is sold/delivered to participant fully assembled

3. Complete the purchase

Retailers will deduct the voucher amount from the cost of the bike. Retailers agree that e-bike will be assembled completely before handing over to the customer.

4. Upload purchase documents and relevant information into the Retailer Portal

Provide Program Administrator a copy of the sales receipt and customer signed acknowledgment of receipt, as well as an incentive payout request form that will include the e-bike serial number, e-bike model, purchase date, total purchase price, incentive amount, and assembly confirmation. 

5. Receive the incentive via Electronic Funds Transfer (ACH)

Once a voucher is redeemed and all the appropriate materials have been uploaded with an incentive payout request in the dealer portal, ACH payments should be received within 2 weeks. If a retailer is unable to receive an ACH payment, there will likely be delays in payment.

Additional Resources

For more information or to apply for the subsidy, visit the official program website. Additional resources on e-bike safety, maintenance, and best practices are also available to help applicants and participants fully embrace the benefits of e-biking as a sustainable transportation option.

Conclusion

The collaboration between Mokwheel and the California E-Bike Incentive Program represents a win-win for consumers and the environment. Mokwheel's varied and economically priced e-bike selection, designed to cater to different user needs, complements the California E-Bike Incentive Program's mission with precision. Whether commuting or off-roading, Mokwheel is your best partner. Pre-order your e-bike now!