Tern Quick Haul Long e-cargo bike in red

2024-2025 E-Bike Incentive Programs in Europe

Updated on 

If you live in North America, check out our article about selected e-bike subsidies in the US and Canada.

Europe has excellent cycling infrastructure and supportive policies and is well-prepared for the growing number of e-bike users. Many countries offer rebates at different government levels, so we’ve put together a list of cities and regions where e-bike subsidies are consistently available. This article is not an exhaustive list and Tern is not sponsored by any of the incentive programs we’ve highlighted—we’re just sharing them to help you! 🙂 For detailed information on each program, please visit their official websites or check with your local government.

What is an e-bike incentive program?

An e-bike incentive program is a government or organizational initiative designed to encourage the adoption of electric (cargo) bicycles. These programs typically offer financial support, such as rebates, subsidies, or tax credits, to offset the purchase or leasing costs of e-bikes. The goal is to promote environmentally friendly transportation, reduce reliance on cars, and lower carbon emissions. Incentives often vary by region, targeting individuals, businesses, or public institutions, and may include additional requirements such as using renewable energy or specific bike types.

Austria 🇦🇹

National E-Bike Subsidies

1. Subsidies for E-Bikes, (E-)Cargo Bikes, and (E-)Folding Bikes

Förderung für E-Fahrräder, (E-)Transporträder und (E-)Falträder

“Klimaaktiv” is Austria's climate protection initiative by the Federal Ministry for Climate Protection, Environment, Energy, Mobility, Innovation, and Technology (BMK). It supports climate goals through quality standards, professional training, consulting, and a broad partner network. Klimaaktiv offers subsidies for electric bikes, transport bikes, and folding bikes to encourage sustainable transportation.

Private individuals can receive up to €900 for transport bikes and €500 for folding bikes, provided they meet specific criteria like load capacity and dimensions. Businesses, municipalities, and associations are also eligible for similar subsidies, capped at 30% of costs, with a minimum purchase of five e-bikes required for some grants. Applications are open until February 28, 2025, or until funds are depleted. For details, visit the official website.

2. Other bike purchasing schemes

You could also check out the website cargobike.jetzt (in German) for a comprehensive list of national and regional bike programs in Austria and Germany.

City of Salzburg

Subsidy for Bike Trailers and Cargo Bikes (Förderung für Radanhänger und Lastenfahrräder)

The City of Salzburg offers subsidies for cargo bikes and bike trailers, with 30% funding for new purchases. The funding applies to private individuals who have lived in Salzburg for at least one year. The amounts are as follows:

  • 30% of the new price for bike trailers, up to €250
  • 30% of the new price for cargo bikes, up to €800
  • 30% of the new price for electric cargo bikes, up to €1,000
  • 30% of the new price for bikes for people with disabilities, up to €1,000
  • 30% of the conversion cost for bikes for people with disabilities, up to €1,000

The subsidy encourages sustainable transportation and supports families, particularly for child transport. It is granted based on available funds and a first-come, first-served basis. Applications can be submitted online, along with the original invoice and proof of payment.

City of Vienna

Subsidy for Cargo Bicycles for Private Individuals (Förderung von Transportfahrrädern für Privatpersonen)

The City of Vienna offers financial incentives to encourage the use of cargo bikes for sustainable transportation. These subsidies apply to both private individuals and businesses, with varying eligibility criteria and funding amounts.

  • Eligibility: Subsidies are available for the purchase of both electric and non-electric cargo bikes. Eligible parties include private individuals, businesses, and non-profit organizations.
  • Subsidy Amount: For private individuals, the subsidy covers 50% of the purchase price, up to €800 for non-electric cargo bikes and up to €1,000 for electric cargo bikes. Businesses and organizations can receive higher subsidies depending on the use case.
  • Application Process: Applicants must submit proof of purchase, proof of residence or registration in Vienna, and a completed application form. Applications are processed through the City of Vienna’s online portal.
  • Subsidy Goals: The program aims to reduce car dependency, promote sustainable transport options, and improve air quality in the city.

For full details and application guidelines, visit the City of Vienna's cargo bike subsidy webpage.

Belgium 🇧🇪

Tax Benefits and Bicycle Rebates

Belgium offers two categories of ongoing e-bike incentives: a federal reimbursement scheme and regional or municipal bike subsidies for individual and business purchases.

Federal Reimbursement Scheme

The Belgian federal government offers a company bike reimbursement scheme but eligibility wholly depends on your employer’s policies and/or your employment contract. This federal scheme has three types: Mileage allowance, flat-rate or fixed reimbursement, and the company bicycle allowance. Let’s take a further look at each of the types.

1. Mileage Allowance (kilometervergoeding/indemnité vélo)

As of 2024, if eligible, you can claim up to €0.35 per kilometer in allowances for a one-way commute up to 20 kilometers. The maximum annual total reimbursement is €3,500. For commutes exceeding this distance or reimbursement above the limit, the extra amount is taxable.

2. Flat-Rate Reimbursement (forfataire vergoeding/l’indemnité forfataire)

In some cases, an employer may provide a flat-rate compensation for transportation costs. This means all employees receive the same fixed amount for commuting expenses. However, this type of compensation does not qualify as a tax-free cycling allowance.

As of 2024, this flat-rate reimbursement can still be tax-exempt up to a maximum of €470 per year (based on your 2023 income). Additionally, it may cover rental costs for shared bikes, provided they are used for commuting. This can be either exclusively or combined with private use.

3. Company Bicycle Allowance (fietsvergoeding/le vélo de société)

In this case, your employer can provide you with a company bike, making the costs for purchase, maintenance, and repairs 100% tax-deductible. This also includes accessories like pumps, bells, lights, reflectors, repair kits, panniers, helmets, and high-visibility vests (but not cycling clothing).

For employers, costs for adapting facilities for showers, changing rooms, and bike storage are deductible. Note that since 2017, private use of a company bike is exempt from social security contributions. The bike allowance can be combined with the provision of a company bike.

In all three cases, please read the Belgian government’s official website (in Dutch or French) carefully and check with your employer to confirm your eligibility and details.

Local Bike Subsidies

Premies voor de aankoop van een fiets/Primes à l’achat d’un vélo

On a sub-national level, Belgium offers even more e-bike incentives, most commonly in the form of rebates. To learn more about the available schemes in your locality, please consult the Belgian government website (in Dutch or French) for a non-exhaustive list of participating regions and municipalities.

Germany 🇩🇪

Germany has a wealth of e-bike incentive programs, but they vary significantly per state, region, or city. As the rules tend to be extra precise, we recommend that you conduct thorough research to see whether your area offers an e-bike program that not only suits your needs but that the bike of your choice is on the government’s list of approved bikes. You could also check out the websites cargobike.jetzt (in German) for an exhaustive list of national and regional bike programs in Germany and Austria. Below is a tiny selection of what some programs may look like.

City of Stuttgart

E-Cargo Bike Funding Program (Förderprogramm E‐Lastenrad)

Stuttgart's electric cargo bike subsidy program offers financial support to families and single parents who wish to purchase or lease an e-cargo bike. Depending on one’s circumstances, applicants can receive up to €1,100, including €600 upfront and an additional €500 after three years of use. The program encourages more sustainable transportation alternatives to cars. The subsidy is also available to those with a Bonuscard or FamiliesCard. For detailed eligibility and application steps, visit the official page.

State of North Rhine-Westphalia

Federal Funding for the Purchase of Cargo Bikes (Elektromobilität NRW)

The federal program supports the purchase of electric cargo bicycles (E-Lastenfahrräder) and electric cargo trailers (E-Lastenanhänger) for freight transport in various sectors. Eligible applicants include private companies and public institutions. The program offers a subsidy of 25% of the purchase costs, with a maximum of €3,500 per bike or trailer.

To qualify, the vehicle must meet specific criteria, including being newly manufactured, having a max gross vehicle weight (MGVW) of at least 170 kg, and being on the list of eligible electric cargo bicycles and trailers under the Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Climate Action. (Good news, Tern e-bikes are also on this list!) Applications are processed through the Federal Office for Economic Affairs and Export Control (Bundesamt für Wirtschaft und Ausfuhrkontrolle, BAFA).

Ireland 🇮🇪

Cycle to Work Scheme

The Cycle to Work Scheme in Ireland allows employees to purchase bicycles and cycling equipment tax-free as part of their work benefits. Under the scheme, employers can provide up to €3,000 for a bike and related safety equipment, which the employee can repay through salary deductions over 12 months. The limits depend on the bicycle type:

  • €3,000 on cargo and e-cargo bikes
  • €1,500 on pedelecs and e-bikes
  • €1,250 for other bikes

This scheme encourages sustainable commuting and helps employees save on taxes. The tax-free amount applies to the cost of the bicycle and accessories like helmets, locks, and lights. The scheme is available to full-time employees who have been with their employer for at least six months.

To participate, employees need to apply through their employer, who purchases the bicycle and equipment on their behalf. The purchase can be made at any bike shop, but if you are a public servant, the shop must be listed as an approved supplier.

Participation in the scheme is not mandatory for your employer. For more information and eligibility details, visit the Irish Revenue website.

Italy 🇮🇹

Cycling is gaining popularity in Italy, with regional funding initiatives offering vouchers to promote its growth. The primary idea behind this financial assistance for 2025 is to encourage the purchase of electric bicycles through vouchers that can be used for purchases or bike-sharing services combined with public transportation, as seen in Lombardy. See this website (in Italian) for more information.

An incentive is also provided in the city of Florence, where the municipal initiative “Pedala, Firenze ti premia” (Ride, Florence Rewards You) offers 20 cents per kilometer ridden, with a maximum monthly reimbursement of 30 euros.

Who is eligible for the bike bonuses?

You must reside in the region issuing the grant to apply for the bonus. You must also use bike-sharing services or scrap old polluting vehicles and choose eco-friendly alternatives, such as electric bicycles. The process may vary by region, but generally, it involves:

  • Registering on the regional portal dedicated to incentives using SPID (Italian Digital Identity System) or an electronic ID card.
  • Filling out an online application form, providing personal details and purchase information, including the invoice or receipt for the bicycle, as well as your IBAN for reimbursement.
  • Submitting a declaration of compliance certifying that the bicycle meets current regulations.

Netherlands 🇳🇱

Company Bike Scheme (Fiets van de zaak)

Bike Country’s national government offers tax credits for employees who lease an (e-)bike from their company. Under this scheme, employees are expected to ride their bike to work daily but are also encouraged to use it outside working hours. The objective of this tax break is to encourage more physical activity and to use bikes more often for recreational activities. The company bike scheme can be financed in different ways.

1. Monthly Allowance (Bijtelling)

When a company provides a bike to its employees, it must add 7% of the bike's original purchase price (including VAT) to the employee's monthly gross salary. This additional 7% is then subject to taxation.

2. Own Contribution (Eigen bijdrage)

It’s also possible for the employer to ask the employee for a monthly contribution for the bike’s purchase or maintenance. This amount is then deducted from the additional 7% mentioned under point 1.

3. Employer-funded (Werkgever vergoedt soms de bijtelling)

Under the Dutch Work-Related Costs Scheme (werkkostenregeling, WKR), employers can offer tax-free reimbursements and benefits for work-related expenses, such as tools, travel, and employee perks. This includes the option to provide employees with a bicycle as part of their benefits. For more details, visit the Dutch government's WKR webpage (in Dutch).

Norway 🇳🇴

City of Bergen

Subsidy for the purchase of electric cargo bikes for companies (Tilskudd til kjøp av elektrisk lastesykkel for bedrifter)

The Bergen Municipality offers business owners a subsidy of up to 15% for the purchase of cargo e bikes to replace car use. The program is open year-round, and the processing time is three weeks from the date of submission.

A quick overview of the regulations:

  • Only companies registered in Bergen Municipality and the unit register (Brønnøysundregisteret) can apply; private individuals and public entities are excluded.
  • Companies cannot receive both Urban Environment Agency support and other public funding for the same purchase.
  • A maximum of NOK 15,000 or 30% of the bike's cost is granted per bike, up to 10 bikes per company.
  • Applications must describe the bike's intended use and the car transport it replaces.
  • Final report submission includes receipts for all costs, and an experience report after 6-8 weeks of use, with a 6-month implementation window.

City of Oslo

Electric cargo bike for businesses (Elektrisk lastesykkel for bedrifter)

The Oslo business owner subsidy program for new electric cargo bikes provides up to 15% of the purchase price, with a maximum of NOK 150,000 per company. Subsidies are available for up to 10 bikes per company and must be approved before purchase.  Bikes must be purchased new through dealers, and second-hand purchases or purchases from private individuals are not eligible. The program is open year-round.

A summary of the guidelines:

  • Only Oslo-based companies registered in the Brønnøysundregisteret are eligible; private individuals, public entities, and housing associations cannot apply.
  • The company must wait for application approval before ordering or initiating the bike purchase.
  • No dual funding: companies cannot receive both Climate and Energy Fund support and other public subsidies for the bike.
  • Applications must include a description of the bike's intended use and what car transport it replaces.
  • The final report must be submitted within one year of receiving the subsidy. The final report must include receipts for all costs and an experience report after 6-8 weeks of use.
     

United Kingdom 🇬🇧

Bike2Work

The Bike2Work Scheme is a UK government-approved employee benefit that encourages cycling to work by offering significant savings on new bikes and equipment. Employees can save up to 48.25% on the cost of bicycles and accessories through a salary sacrifice arrangement, where payments are deducted from their gross salary, reducing income tax and National Insurance contributions. Employers also benefit by saving up to 15.05% on National Insurance contributions and promoting a healthier, more productive workforce. The scheme is free to join for both employers and employees and provides access to a network of over 2,000 partner shops. Applications are processed online, making it a super convenient process.

Cyclescheme

Cyclescheme is a UK employee benefit that offers savings of up to 42% on bikes and accessories, paid through salary sacrifice. It partners with over 2,600 bike shops and provides flexible choices for employees, including electric bikes and accessories. The program offers exclusive discounts, including 14 days of free insurance, and can also be used for bike rentals. Visit their website for complete information, especially their help & support page.

E-Bike Subsidy Online Trackers

While we can't cover all available funding programs, there are numerous e-bike incentives across various administrative levels in Europe. For more information, we recommend the following online tools to help you explore additional funding opportunities.

European Cyclists’ Federation

The European Cyclists’ Federation (ECF) has a handy ”Money For Bikes” tracker that allows you to look for subsidies based on your bike type and target group (individuals, businesses, or public entities) all around Europe.

Ride Review

Electric Tax Rebates and Tax Credits in Europe

Ride Review is a comprehensive online platform dedicated to small electric vehicles, including electric bikes, scooters, and mopeds. The website offers in-depth reviews, news, and guides to assist consumers in making informed decisions about these vehicles. 

Additional Information

While each country has its own set of requirements, it’s possible that not just any e-bike or e-cargo bike can qualify for a rebate. Some governments may ask you for specific information, such as the bike’s maximum load capacity, wheelbase, or other dimensions. It’s also possible that your local authority may request a Declaration of Conformity (DoC) or proof of safety certification. Some newer bikes' documentation may already include the DoC. If you’re unsure what these documents are or how to obtain them, please contact your nearest (Tern) bike dealer.