What is Baltimore's E-Bike Voucher Pilot Program?

We are introducing a pilot initiative to help Baltimore City residents buy electric bicycles.

This program promotes environmental sustainability, transportation independence, and economic empowerment. Residents can apply for vouchers to purchase e-bikes from approved vendors.

A cornerstone of the program is breaking down financial barriers to e-bike access. By providing financial support, especially income-qualified individuals, we aim to make e-biking an affordable and sustainable transportation option for more residents.

The e-bike voucher pilot program also aims to advance environmental sustainability by encouraging the adoption of e-bikes as a green transportation option. Baltimore City's key goals in achieving environmental targets include reducing greenhouse gas emissions and alleviating traffic congestion.

How can I participate?

Once the application period opens in September 2024, anyone who is a Baltimore City resident* at the time of application can apply for the voucher program.

Submitting an application does not guarantee you will receive a voucher.

*Individuals employed or contracted by the City of Baltimore who have been involved in the development, application lottery and/or review process, voucher distribution, vendor reimbursement, or evaluation of the e-bike voucher pilot program are not eligible to apply. Additionally, individuals employed by the participating vendors and immediate family members of any individuals in these excluded groups are also ineligible.

How does the voucher system work?

Once the application period has ended, applications will be randomly pulled through a lottery, and then vetted for completeness and program compliance.

Application evaluations will continue until the program budget is met. If your application is approved, you will receive an approval email and instructions on how to redeem your e-bike voucher at one of our approved vendors.

You must use the voucher within 45 days.

It’s important to note a voucher approval email must be obtained before purchasing, as previous e-bike purchases are not eligible for the program.

How much is the voucher worth?

We are offering $750 for Baltimore City residents and up to $2,000 for income-qualified Baltimore City residents. At least 50 percent of the vouchers will be reserved for income-qualified residents, ensuring equitable access to the benefits of e-biking.

To be eligible for up to $2,000, applicants need to provide proof of SNAP, TANF, or Medicaid. Proof of enrollment can include an Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT card for SNAP or TANF; Medicaid ID card).

SNAP or TANF	Medicaid

How many residents will be participating?

This initiative aims to support up to 50 participants in the pilot program.

Where can I use the voucher?

We will announce the final list of approved Baltimore bike shops participating in the pilot once the application period opens.

The voucher can only be used at these approved locations.

What kind of e-bike can I get?

The e-bike incentive program will follow the State of Maryland’s laws and regulations relating to e-bike operations (Senate Bill 935).

The State defines an e-bike as a bicycle with a motor of up to 750W and a maximum speed of 28 mph on flat surfaces. The motor must be designed to disengage at 28 mph.

The following list outlines the different types of e-bikes that will be eligible for purchase at approved vendors according to Maryland law:

• Class 1: e-bikes equipped with a motor that provides assistance only when the rider is pedaling and ceases to assist when the bicycle reaches a speed of 20 mph;
• Class 2: e-bike equipped with a motor that assists whether or not the rider is pedaling the bicycle (throttle) and ceases to assist when the bicycle reaches a speed of 20 mph and
• Class 3: e-bike equipped with a motor that provides assistance only when the rider is pedaling and ceases to assist when the bicycle reaches a speed of 28 mph.

Additional Resources:

E-Bike Smart

This safety guidance by People for Bikes will take you through a series of short videos that explain what an electric bicycle is, how to handle your e-bike battery, where you can ride e-bikes, and best practices for rider safety and etiquette when on your e-bike.

SHIFT Driving

This new online driving education course from Bicycle Colorado focuses on filling the knowledge gaps in existing driving education, specifically on sharing the road safely with bicyclists and pedestrians.

Battery Fire Safety Fact Sheet

What to do about battery safety.