Oregon eBike incentives are still waiting for government action.
In 2010, the IRS established an EV tax credit for the plug-in hybrids and battery-electric vehicles. Over a decade later The Electric Bicycle Incentive Kickstart for the Environment (E-BIKE) Act was sponsored by Earl Blumenauer (Oregon) prioritizes electric bicycles as a zero-carbon mode of transportation by making them more affordable and accessible for all Americans.
Currently EV sales are stalling. Ford Motor Company is loosing money on every EV sale, making up the cost with profitable models in their truck series. EBikes sales are growing even with incentives stalled by state governments.
Charging infrastructure is a major concern for EV buyers. Homeowners can install a charging station at their home, but renters may not have that option. Ebikes can be charged at a common plugin at work or home. Commuters using an eBike can normally travel to and from work on a single charge as most people live less than 10 miles where they work. With most of that distance at lower speed limits an eBike fits well in your daily schedule. Fair weather bikers enjoy less traffic delays as bike lanes are less congested. While Oregon is known for it’s rain, almost 40% of the days are rain free in Portland.
Oregonians can save on the purchase or lease of an eligible electric bike by taking advantage of the Clean Vehicle and Charge Ahead Rebate programs offered by the Oregon Department of Environmental Quality. Unfortunately, this initiative is temporarily suspended as of May 2023 and it will only start after March 2024. So far only Eugene Utilities offers a $300 rebates for a new e-bike purchases made since January 1, 2022. You must submit your invoice/bill to apply.
Washington state is focusing their incentives at brick and mortar businesses to boost local retailers and big name manufactures. Small companies will be cut out of the incentives, limiting buyers choice of eBikes to Aventon, Giant, Trek and a few others.
While an eBike can not replace your daily driver it is an option to keep more ICE (Internal Combustion Engine) off the roads.