The Hawai‘i Department of Transportation (HDOT) recently launched a rebate program for electric bikes and electric mopeds.
To qualify for a rebate, residents must be at least 18 years old and must have made their purchases at retail stores after July 1, 2022. The vehicles must have been purchased new, and electric bicycles must have a maximum speed of 28 miles per hour.
In addition, residents must not own a motor vehicle with four or more wheels; must be enrolled in school, community college, or university; and must participate in a low-income assistance program.
Rebates will be capped at 20 percent of the retail price per vehicle or $500, whichever is lower.
Eligible residents can apply online or request a paper form.
“Wide adoption of electric vehicles, including bicycles and mopeds, will help move us toward our clean energy goals while filling a key gap in mobility for many in our state,” HDOT Director Ed Sniffen said. “HDOT will continue to support programs that encourage Hawai‘i residents to use vehicles with lower emissions that enhance their transportation alternatives.”
The purpose of the rebate program is to reduce the cost of living and cost of transportation for people who receive financial assistance or don’t own cars.