The New York City Department of Transportation (NYC DOT) has opened applications for the first-ever municipal e-bike trade-in program designed specifically for food delivery workers. This new initiative, part of Mayor Adams’ Charge Safe, Ride Safe plan, allows eligible workers to trade in uncertified e-bikes or non-street-legal mopeds for safer, UL-certified e-bikes and spare batteries at no cost. The program aims to address the rising safety concerns surrounding uncertified devices and batteries, which have been linked to deadly fires and street hazards.
NYC DOT Commissioner Ydanis Rodriguez emphasized the importance of the initiative, noting that safer e-bikes and batteries are essential to creating a sustainable transportation future while protecting New Yorkers from the dangers of uncertified equipment. Commissioner Rodriguez also highlighted the challenging nature of food delivery work, stating that the program provides delivery workers with reliable equipment and offers peace of mind to their families and neighbors.
The program is backed by a $2 million allocation from the Adams Administration, with a goal of replacing over 400 uncertified e-bikes and batteries in 2025. This initiative follows the enactment of Local Law 131 of 2023, sponsored by Council Member Keith Powers, which established the framework for the trade-in program.
Uncertified lithium-ion batteries pose a significant fire risk, with fires spreading quickly, producing intense heat, and being difficult to extinguish. To combat these dangers, the trade-in program will exclusively provide UL-certified e-bikes and batteries, the global standard for fire safety and quality.
The application process is open from January 27, 2025, to February 17, 2025, and materials are available in multiple languages, including English, Spanish, French, Bengali, and Chinese. Applicants can access free technical support clinics during this period to assist with completing their applications. Selected participants must also complete an online safety training course to ensure they practice safe riding and charging habits.
To qualify for the program, applicants must be a current New York City resident aged 18 or older, have earned at least $1,500 in 2024 as a food delivery worker for a restaurant, third-party delivery service, or courier service, and own an eligible device in operable condition.
Many delivery workers currently rely on uncertified e-bikes or illegal mopeds, which cannot be registered with the New York State Department of Motor Vehicles. By trading in these devices, participants will help reduce fire and crash risks while ensuring compliance with local and state laws.
The e-bike trade-in program is part of NYC DOT’s broader efforts to promote safe, legal e-micromobility options. The department is working to expand bike lanes along high-traffic routes, increase public e-bike charging options, and educate the public on safe e-bike use.
As part of the Charge Safe, Ride Safe plan, NYC DOT will allow property owners and tenants to install electric micromobility battery swapping and charging cabinets on public sidewalks. Additionally, a partnership with the New York City Housing Authority (NYCHA) will implement a public e-bike charging program at 173 locations near 53 public housing developments, funded by a $25 million federal RAISE grant.
The FDNY has also launched a $1 million public education campaign to raise awareness about the dangers of uncertified lithium-ion batteries, noting that over half of 2023’s battery fires occurred when devices were not charging.
Elected officials and advocates praised the program as a vital step toward addressing safety concerns for both delivery workers and the broader community. Councilmember Shaun Abreu highlighted the program’s role in protecting delivery workers’ livelihoods while reducing fire risks. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand commended the initiative as a step toward preventing preventable fires, and Manhattan Borough President Mark Levine emphasized the importance of providing safe equipment for delivery workers.
Advocacy groups like Bike New York and the Worker’s Justice Project echoed these sentiments, applauding NYC DOT’s leadership and commitment to safety and sustainability. By replacing unsafe devices with certified alternatives, the trade-in program represents a significant investment in public safety and the well-being of essential delivery workers.
The NYC DOT e-bike trade-in program marks a critical step toward creating a safer, more equitable transportation system for delivery workers and New Yorkers alike. By addressing the risks posed by uncertified devices and expanding access to safe micromobility options, the city is setting a national example for protecting workers and communities.
