New round of funding to help boost e-bike use

A fresh round of funding to promote the use of e-bikes has been announced by the Scottish Government.

Ministers said £1.14 million has been allocated for 2019/2020 from the Scottish Govern men t’ s£80m active travel budget to finance thee-bike grant fund.

The scheme, delivered by the Energy Saving Trust, aims to promote e -bikes as more sustainable alternatives to car journeys.

Applications are encouraged from councils, pub - lic sector agencies, further and higher education institutions, act iv et ravel hub sand community groups. Up to £200,000 per application is now available to help organisations and communities access e-bikes in a more affordable way.

Transport Secretary Michael Matheson said: “The advances in technology mean that e-bikes can provide a more sustainable alternative to singleo ccupancy car journeys. The only downside is that they still remain expensive for many and high costs remains a barrier to uptake.

“This is where I’m proud the Scottish Government has helped to provide affordable access through this progressive initiative. Through this new round I hope we increase opportunities for people to discover this exciting way to travel.”