As Queensland continues to lead the charge towards a more sustainable future, the introduction of rebates for electric vehicles (EVs), specifically e-scooters and e-bikes, marks a significant step forward. With a growing focus on reducing carbon emissions and promoting eco-friendly transportation, the Queensland Government has recognised the need to incentivise greener commuting options.
Queensland Offers E-Scooters and E-Bike Rebates
On 23 September 2024, the Queensland Government introduced a rebate scheme for e-scooters and e-bikes as part of the state’s Zero Emission Vehicle Strategy 2022-2032. The E-Mobility Rebate Scheme will have $1m in funding. The Department of Transport and Main Roads has tasked the Queensland Rural and Industry Development Authority (QRIDA) to oversee the Scheme’s implementation.
Eligibility
The Scheme is open exclusively to Queensland residents at least 18 years old and up to three people per household. To qualify for the rebate, they must have bought their e-scooter or e-bike as a brand-new unit from a Queensland store or online seller in Australia on/after 23 September 2024. The unit must be bought only for personal use; applicants using the unit for business purposes such as sole traders or companies are excluded. At the same time, applicants who may have affiliations with QRIDA must declare it to properly address conflict of interest.
For hardware requirements, the Scheme generally mandates eligible units to have a maximum speed of 25 kph under motor power, have a battery management system, and be sold with regulator-approved charger units that are also listed on the Electrical Equipment Safety System database.
The Scheme also has more stringent parameters for both categories.
E-Scooter
Approved e-scooters will include handlebar-controlled two-wheeler or tricycle units with motors that deactivate when the vehicle goes above 25 kph. They must have footboards at the wheels.
For dimensions, the unit must have a dry mass of 60 kilos, and measure up to 1,250 millimetres long, 1,350mm high, and 700mm wide. The unit should also be certified roadworthy under Queensland Road Rules Sec 15A.
E-Bikes
E-bikes per the Scheme are broken down into electrically-assisted bicycles or electrically power-assisted cycles (EPAC).
For electrically-assisted bicycles, an eligible unit should only have one electric motor with up to 200 watts’ power output; if there’s at least one motor, their combined output is not more than 200W. The unit’s maximum speed on motors only must not exceed six kph and no more than 25 kph on combined pedal motor power – the motor should stop if the speed is above 25 kph.
Eligible EPACs should have max continuous power not exceeding 250W. Like the electric-assisted bike, the EPAC must cut the motor on no-pedalling speeds over six kph and combined runs over 25 kph.
Rebate Amounts
The Scheme mandates the rebate available at $200 for each eligible e-scooter and $500 for each eligible e-bike as stated above, which will also include those with cargo capability. However, if the device’s purchase price was under $500 including GST, the applicant will be reimbursed the total cost.
Each applicant under the Scheme can only be accorded the rebate once and the QRIDA will have secure identification protocols in place to identify potential fraud.
Why Offer Rebates for E-Scooters and E-Bikes?
The shift towards greener transportation options is essential in combating climate change. Cars powered by petrol and diesel are major contributors to greenhouse gas emissions. In promoting the use of e-scooters and e-bikes, Queensland aims to reduce emissions and ease traffic congestion in urban areas. There are several key reasons why offering rebates for these electric vehicles makes sense:
Reducing Carbon Footprint
E-scooters and e-bikes produce zero emissions, making them ideal for short commutes. They help reduce the overall carbon footprint of daily transportation, contributing to cleaner air and a healthier environment. With Queensland’s commitment to achieving net-zero emissions by 2050, promoting electric vehicles aligns with the state’s broader environmental goals.
Encouraging Sustainable Transportation
Offering rebates for e-scooters and e-bikes encourages commuters to consider switching from cars to more sustainable options. By making these vehicles more affordable, the Queensland Government is actively supporting the transition to green, electric-powered transport, which is particularly beneficial for inner-city travel.
Improving Public Health
Active transport options, like e-bikes, promote physical activity, improving public health outcomes. Commuters who choose e-bikes over cars for short trips are not only reducing their environmental impact but also increasing their physical activity, which can lead to better health and well-being, especially under current state safety rules.
It is also a balancing act, however, as the presence of e-scooters and bikes on the streets have also generated injuries treated in Queensland’s emergency services, with 1,273 cases logged in 2023.
Reducing Traffic Congestion
E-scooters and e-bikes take up far less road space than cars, making them a practical solution for reducing traffic congestion in busy urban centres. By offering rebates, the Queensland Government hopes to make these compact vehicles more appealing to city dwellers.
Supporting the Green Economy
The rebate scheme is not just about encouraging individuals to make greener transport choices — it is also about supporting Queensland’s growing green economy. E-scooters and e-bikes are becoming an integral part of Queensland’s sustainable infrastructure, and the rebates are expected to create further demand for eco-friendly products and services.
The rise of electric vehicles, including e-scooters and e-bikes, is expected to boost local businesses involved in the sales, maintenance, and infrastructure of these vehicles. This, in turn, contributes to job creation in Queensland’s green economy, aligning with the state’s long-term economic and environmental strategies.
Speaking at the Scheme’s unveiling on 21 September 2024, QLD Transport Minister Bart Mellish said Queensland’s warm climate and the public’s interest to ride longer without worrying about fuel costs is a nudge to acquire e-scooters or e-bikes. The Scheme also comes as the state government closed applications for an EV rebate scheme dating back two years offering rebates of up to $6,000 for new purchases, and the Brisbane City Council voiding a scooter rental contract it had with Beam over fraud charges.
The Bottom Line
The rebates offered by the QLD government for e-scooters and e-bikes are a significant boost for individuals and businesses alike. With the state’s commitment to building a green economy, these incentives pave the way for a cleaner, healthier, and more sustainable future. By reducing the cost barrier for electric vehicles, Queensland is making it easier for everyone to be part of the solution to climate change and traffic congestion.
DISCLAIMER: This article is for informational purposes only. 2 Ezi is not affiliated with the Queensland government or any EV manufacturer, and is not a party to any rebate scheme for mobility solutions.
