China’s Aging E-bike Replacement: 1.66 Million Units Swapped
- China's electric bicycle (e-bike) trade-in program is showing strong progress in 2025, with significant subsidies distributed to encourage the adoption of newer, safer models.
- As of this week, China has allocated 1 billion yuan ($139.48 million) in subsidies to over 1.65 million consumers participating in the e-bike trade-in program, according to the...
- Given the "higher safety performance and broader applications of lead-acid battery electric bicycles," China is increasing subsidies for consumers who trade in their old lithium battery bicycles and...
China’s E-Bike Trade-In Program Gains Momentum in 2025
Table of Contents
- China’s E-Bike Trade-In Program Gains Momentum in 2025
- China’s E-Bike Trade-In Program: Q&A Guide for 2025
- What is China’s E-Bike Trade-In Program?
- Why is China Promoting Lead-Acid batteries over Lithium-Ion in E-Bikes?
- How Does the E-Bike Trade-In Program Work?
- How Much Subsidy is Offered Under the E-Bike Trade-In Program?
- Who is Involved in Implementing the E-Bike Trade-In Program?
- What are the Key Benefits of the E-Bike Trade-In Program?
- What Impact Did Previous E-Bike Replacement Initiatives Have?
- E-Bike Trade-In Program: Summary table
- How Many E-Bikes are currently in Use in China?
- What Does the Future Hold for the E-Bike Trade-In Program?
China’s electric bicycle (e-bike) trade-in program is showing strong progress in 2025, with significant subsidies distributed to encourage the adoption of newer, safer models. The initiative aims to replace older e-bikes with more advanced versions, particularly focusing on shifting from lithium battery models to lead-acid battery e-bikes.
Subsidies boost E-Bike Replacements
As of this week, China has allocated 1 billion yuan ($139.48 million) in subsidies to over 1.65 million consumers participating in the e-bike trade-in program, according to the Ministry of Commerce. From January 1, 2025, to tuesday, more than 1.66 million new e-bikes have been purchased through the program.
Policy Focus: Lead-acid Batteries
Given the ”higher safety performance and broader applications of lead-acid battery electric bicycles,” China is increasing subsidies for consumers who trade in their old lithium battery bicycles and purchase new lead-acid battery models, according to the ministry.
Trade-In Program Details
China’s Ministry of Commerce, along with four other departments, has announced new policies for the electric bicycle trade-in program for 2025. Individuals who trade in their old electric bicycles for eligible new models will qualify for subsidies.
Key benefits of the E-Bike Trade-In Program:
- Financial incentives for consumers
- Promotion of safer e-bike models
- Reduction of environmental risks associated with old batteries
2024 Results
In 2024, nearly 1.4 million e-bikes were replaced through similar initiatives.
E-Bike Usage in China
China has a substantial number of bicycles in use. According to an association,”China has 200m bicycles in use”.
Looking Ahead
The e-bike trade-in program reflects China’s commitment to promoting safer and more sustainable transportation options. By providing subsidies and encouraging the adoption of lead-acid battery models,the program aims to enhance safety and environmental protection.
China’s E-Bike Trade-In Program: Q&A Guide for 2025
China’s electric bicycle (e-bike) trade-in program is gaining meaningful traction in 2025. This Q&A guide provides a thorough overview of the program, its objectives, and its impact on consumers and the environment.
What is China’s E-Bike Trade-In Program?
The E-Bike Trade-In Program is a government initiative in China designed to encourage the replacement of older electric bicycles with newer, safer models. The program specifically aims to shift consumers from e-bikes powered by lithium-ion batteries to those using sealed lead-acid (SLA) batteries.
Why is China Promoting Lead-Acid batteries over Lithium-Ion in E-Bikes?
According to the Ministry of Commerce,the shift toward lead-acid batteries is primarily driven by “higher safety performance” compared to lithium-ion batteries. While lithium-ion batteries offer higher energy density and lighter weight, they also pose a greater risk of thermal runaway and fire, particularly in older or poorly maintained e-bikes. The promotion of the “broader applications of lead-acid battery electric bicycles,” may also be due to the more established recycling infrastructure for lead-acid batteries compared to the more nascent lithium-ion battery recycling industry.
How Does the E-Bike Trade-In Program Work?
The program works by offering subsidies to consumers who trade in their old e-bikes and purchase new models that meet the program’s criteria. The specific steps usually involve:
Trading in an old e-bike: Consumers bring their used electric bicycles to participating dealers or designated collection points.
Purchasing a new, eligible e-bike: New e-bikes must meet certain safety and technical standards, frequently enough including the use of lead-acid batteries.
Receiving a subsidy: Upon purchasing an eligible new e-bike, consumers receive a subsidy to offset the cost. The amount of the subsidy is persistent by the government.
How Much Subsidy is Offered Under the E-Bike Trade-In Program?
As of this week china has allocated 1 billion yuan ($139.48 million) in subsidies to over 1.65 million consumers participating in the e-bike trade-in program.
Who is Involved in Implementing the E-Bike Trade-In Program?
The E-Bike Trade-In program is a collaborative effort led by China’s Ministry of Commerce, along with four other government departments.
What are the Key Benefits of the E-Bike Trade-In Program?
The E-Bike Trade-In Program offers several significant benefits:
Financial Incentives: Subsidies reduce the financial burden for consumers looking to upgrade their e-bikes.
Enhanced Safety: Encourages the adoption of e-bike models with enhanced safety features, particularly those using lead-acid batteries.
Environmental Protection: reduces environmental risks associated with improper disposal of old batteries. By promoting trade-ins, the program ensures that old batteries are properly recycled.
What Impact Did Previous E-Bike Replacement Initiatives Have?
In 2024, nearly 1.4 million e-bikes were replaced through similar initiatives. This indicates a strong consumer interest in upgrading to newer e-bike models when incentives are available.
E-Bike Trade-In Program: Summary table
| Feature | Details |
| ——————— | ————————————————————————————————————————– |
| Objective | Replace old e-bikes with safer, newer models; shift from lithium-ion to lead-acid batteries |
| Incentive | Subsidies for consumers who trade in old e-bikes and purchase eligible new ones |
| Battery Focus | Promoting lead-acid batteries due to higher safety performance |
| Participating Bodies | China’s Ministry of Commerce and four other departments |
| benefits | Financial incentives, enhanced safety, reduced environmental risks |
| 2024 Results | Approximately 1.4 million e-bikes replaced |
How Many E-Bikes are currently in Use in China?
China has a considerable number of bicycles in use. According to an association,”China has 200m bicycles in use”.
What Does the Future Hold for the E-Bike Trade-In Program?
The e-bike trade-in program demonstrates China’s dedication to encouraging safer and more lasting modes of transportation. By continuing to offer subsidies and promoting lead-acid battery models, the program intends to support safety and environmental conservation.