On Your Ebike!

Tasmanians are being encouraged to save money on fuel and on the upfront cost of e-bikes. Advocates and a Tasmanian small business spruke the state government rebate for e-bikes, and launch their own offering.

Margaret Steadman is President at Sustainable Living Tasmania and 2017 Tas Senior Australian of the Year. She is a passionate advocate for sustainable living, active transport and champion for electric bikes.

“I do own a car, but I wanted to reduce my carbon footprint and my main mode of transportation is now my e-bike," Margaret said.

“I use it everyday, frequently several times a day, to go to the shops, to visit my friends - everything. It’s so much more convenient and enjoyable than driving in the city," said Margaret.

“Riding an e-bike is like being young again; it is easy to ride Hobart’s hills and so convenient to park," Margaret said.

“It would be great if there were more separated cycleways, I think that would encourage more people to ride," said Margaret.

Alison Hetherington from Bicycle Network says the government’s e-bike rebates can help slash transport costs.

“If you want to save money, swapping car trips for an e-bike will slash your transport costs," Alison said.

“The upfront price of an e-bike can put some people off, which is why the government’s rebates of up to $500 for an e-bike and up to $1000 for a cargo e-bike are such a boon," said Alison.

“Once you have a bike, you can get up to 80-100 km per charge which typically costs less than 20 cents, and you don’t have to pay for parking or registration," Alison said.

“The rebates are open for three months from 17 November and will finish once all the $200,000 is spent so don’t think about it for too long," said Alison.

Ahmet Bektas, owner of the Tasmanian small business Teros is hosting an open day for Electric Cargo Bikes this Saturday.

“In an Australian first, the Tasmanian Government’s e-Mobility rebate scheme provides up to $1,000 towards an electric cargo bike – one of the fastest growing segments in electric transport. 

“To double this pioneering incentive, Teros and Tern Bicycles have teamed up to match the rebate value in accessories on any Tern cargo bike.

“Need to carry kids, groceries, work gear or family dog? Or all of the above? 

“You can now use our matching rebate to fit out your new cargo bike to perfectly suit your needs.

“To try out different cargo bikes and learn more, get in touch and organise a Test Ride on our Electric Cargo Bikes!