Why can't Hong Kong embrace e-bikes right now for a cleaner, more efficient city?
By HK Lawyer AJ Halkes Barrister-at-Law
I’ve just got back from racing in Niseko and know that pure pedal power isn’t the only way to cover distances and the way Japan has used the e-bike for many years is truly impressive.
With our extensive cycle paths and a rich cycling culture (in the New Territories at least) it’s baffling why the government can’t instantly see the value of e-bikes.
A SCMP editorial highlighted a “crackdown” recently however we now lag behind almost the whole world. E-bikes are perfect for delivery services, e-bikes offer an alternative to motorcycles and cars and would enable more people to get out and enjoy our amazing countryside. Imagine a fleet of e-bikes delivering food across Hong Kong, reducing pollution, making less noise and freeing up parking spaces; a win all around.
This change would boost our economy, enhance environmental conditions, make online services and delivery more efficient and cost-effective for consumers; plus get more people active and out in the world, no matter what age, a perfect lifestyle boost!
E-bikes are thriving in Europe and our competitor Asian cities, so why is Hong Kong still lagging? Embracing new tech like tokens and crypto is great, pushing our financial sector is wonderful, but let’s also focus on simple and sustainable everyday solutions for the ground level needs of the city.
It’s time for rapid change in how we move around so we can move forward faster.
hashtagSustainability hashtagEBikes hashtagHongKong hashtagCleanEnergy hashtagSmartCity hashtagGreenTransport hashtagInnovation
I’m not racing an e-bike just yet – one day maybe…