Riding a bike is good for the body and the environment. But the bike is not always an adequate substitute for the car. But far too often the car is used even for smaller distances, which the state of Hesse now wants to curb with a very special promotion: "Road traffic still accounts for the largest share of CO2 emissions in Hesse. That is why we are committed to a traffic turnaround," said Environment Minister Priska Hinz. "That means we are creating incentives so that citizens can do well without their cars. This includes expanding local transport and improving cycle paths. But we also want to support every individual who makes their contribution to the climate: That is why we are promoting the purchase of private cargo bikes with immediate effect. For this purpose, we provide 900,000 euros annually," Hinz continues.
Practical and emission-free
Hinz further explains: "Cargo bikes are practical, emission-free and, thanks to our funding program, now affordable for more citizens. In the city, the bicycle is the fastest means of transport for short distances, it causes no exhaust fumes and no noise. With a cargo bike, you can transport your children, the shopping for the whole family and even a larger purchase sometimes."
The funding is intended to provide an incentive to anyone who wants to switch to a bike. Thus, citizens as well as associations and small businesses can then have cargo bikes or trailers with or without electric drive subsidized. The state will provide 500 euros for a cargo bike without electric drive and 1,000 euros for an electric cargo bike. Freight and child trailers are subsidised with 100 and 200 euros respectively, depending on whether they have a motor or not. Filling out the application takes no more than 5 minutes, an estimate of costs and a copy of the identity card are also required.
