New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani sent cease-and-desist letters to major retailers, including Amazon, Wayfair, Walmart, Temu, and Target. The demand: halt sales of prohibited motorized scooters and e-bikes to city residents and businesses. Those failing to comply face $2,000 fines starting August 18.
Reason for the Action
The action targets scooters and e-bikes that surpass legal speed limits and wattage restrictions. Some mopeds also lack proper Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs), adding to their prohibition. In New York City, e-bikes must adhere to a speed limit of 15 mph, with a maximum allowance range of 20 to 25 mph. Scooters should not exceed 100 pounds or 20 mph.
Department of Transportation Commissioner Mike Flynn highlighted, “These are motorcycles marketed as bicycles to New Yorkers.” The crackdown occurred after a tragic incident involving a 17-year-old, Gabriel Nacato, who was fatally hit by an SUV while riding an e-bike capable of exceeding 30 mph.
Amazon’s Response
Amazon, a key recipient of the letter, stated it would review the products in question. They expressed willingness to collaborate with city officials to rectify the issue. An Amazon spokesperson emphasized, “Safety is a top priority, and we require e-bikes sold to meet necessary safety standards and Amazon policies.” Target, however, has not yet responded to inquiries regarding the situation.
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