The British Columbia government is offering a new e-bike rebate program. Experts warn against using safer bikes and batteries – BC
The dangers of rechargeable batteries are sparking another alert among first responders after a recent battery-powered fire broke out in a downtown Eastside apartment.
On Thursday, responders were called to three separate fires at SROs in the neighborhood.
One fire occurred on East Hastings and Columbia streets, the second on West Pender and Hamilton streets, and the third on Abbott and Water streets, according to Vancouver Deputy Fire Chief Matthew Trudeau.
“Responders were able to help with the final extinguishing but encountered a number of batteries. The source of the fire was a rechargeable battery intended for either an e-bike or an e-scooter,” Trudeau said.
“Half of last year’s fire deaths were directly related to rechargeable batteries.”
While crews said on at least one call that the fires had caused severe burns, there was no information as to whether those involved were occupants or the unit itself.
This comes just as the British Columbia government is announcing the new BC Electric Bike Rebate Program, which will allow residents to receive up to a $1,400 rebate on an e-bike purchase, based on income.
Beginning June 1, 2023, British Columbia residents can receive a discount when purchasing a new electric bicycle. The amount of the refund depends on the income.
bcebikerebates.ca
According to the Website, You must provide a statement of income for last year’s taxes, obtain a permit, purchase a bike that costs at least $2,000, and submit your receipts to request a refund.
The website also warns against using aftermarket, cheap, counterfeit or refurbished e-bike batteries and only charging the e-bike battery with the charger provided by the manufacturer.
Local bike shop owner Simon Coutts says the website hasn’t yet specified which retailers are eligible and says bikes and batteries without Canadian certification could be a recipe for disaster.
“If something really does happen that is hot or there’s a big problem, then buyers should be on their guard,” Coutts warns.
He says you only have to look at the craze for the “hoverboards” a few years ago and how that evolved.
“Hoverboards aren’t actually sold. You can’t find her anymore. The reason is that they came, flooded the market and then had a lot of problems,” Coutts shared.
“They are very dangerous. People let them charge overnight and then things happen.”
Coutts reckons the program won’t dramatically increase demand for e-bikes, but says there is interest in the region in getting an e-bike as an alternative to the car for the daily commute.
“I think it would be more for a commuter. Someone who wants an alternative mode of transportation rather than driving to work,” Coutts explained.
“[They] You don’t have to pay for gas or wait in traffic. You can easily ride to and from work via the bike lanes. I already have many customers who do that.”
The program starts on June 1st.
© 2023 Global News, a division of Corus Entertainment Inc.
by Julie Nolin, 2023-05-26 06:05:38
