Food delivery workers in New York City can now exchange uncertified e-bikes or illegal mopeds for safer, UL-certified e-bikes and spare batteries at no cost, thanks to the city’s first municipal e-bike trade-in program.
Launched by NYC Department of Transportation Commissioner Ydanis Rodriguez, the initiative aims to improve public safety and reduce the risk of deadly fires caused by uncertified lithium-ion batteries, according to a press release.
“Safer e-bikes, batteries and charging practices are key to a cleaner and more sustainable transportation future and to protecting all New Yorkers from deadly fires,” said Rodriguez. “Delivery workers have one of the toughest jobs in New York City, and this trade-in program gives them safe, reliable equipment while giving their families and neighbors greater peace of mind."
The $2 million program is part of the broader Charge Safe, Ride Safe action plan. It seeks to provide over 400 new e-bikes in 2025 while enhancing street safety by removing illegal, faster and heavier mopeds.
Non-UL certified batteries are a leading cause of e-bike fires, which spread rapidly, generate extreme heat and are difficult to extinguish. FDNY Commissioner Robert S. Tucker applauded the initiative.
"The FDNY has been working tirelessly to educate the public about the dangers of lithium-ion batteries for the last three years,” said ucker. “Part of that work has focused on getting uncertified lithium-ion batteries off the streets, and we are grateful to the DOT for their work and partnership on an initiative we know will better protect delivery workers, first responders, and our city.”
Eligible applicants must be NYC residents aged 18 or older who earned at least $1,500 in 2024 as food delivery workers and own an operable uncertified e-bike or moped. Applications are open online from Jan. 27 to Feb. 17, with support available in English, Spanish, French, Bengali and Chinese.
To receive the e-bike and spare battery, selected participants will have to complete an online safety training course to ensure e-bike users maintain safe riding practices for themselves, for pedestrians, and for other road users.
Click here to access the application portal.
