A thorough explanation of the Hyogo Prefecture Electric Assist Bicycle Subsidy Program [Summary of Application Methods and Requirements]

Many slopes | Hyogo Prefecture Electric Assist Bicycle Subsidy was born

Ako City is the only city in Hyogo Prefecture that offers a subsidy system for the purchase of electric assist bicycles.

The city introduced this system to address two important issues: providing transportation support for families with children and promoting traffic safety measures.

According to statistical data, the rate of dual-income households in Ako City is 5% higher than the prefectural average, and the risk of traffic accidents when taking children to and from nursery school has long been a concern.

In light of this social situation, a subsidy system aimed at promoting the spread of vehicles that comply with safety standards was launched in fiscal 2021.

Subsidy details and eligibility requirements

Specific examples of support amounts

This system, which subsidizes 50% of the purchase cost (up to 40,000 yen), is expected to have a substantial burden-reducing effect. For example, if you purchase an electrically assisted tandem bicycle with a BAA mark for 80,000 yen, you can receive a subsidy of 40,000 yen.
However, it is important to note that the application deadline is "within four years of purchase," and there are many cases where the deadline passes without the person being aware of the existence of the system.

Three strict application criteria

Requirement items Details
Residency requirements
  • Have lived in Ako for at least one year
  • Continue to reside at the time of application
Family Composition Requirements
  • Raising two or more preschool children
  • Must submit a certificate of nursery school attendance etc.
No duplicate receipt
  • There is no history of receiving benefits in the same household

How to choose a vehicle that meets safety standards

The Importance of the BAA Mark

Bicycles that meet the "Two-Person Bicycle Safety Standards" set by the Japan Bicycle Association are always marked with the BAA mark (two-person compatible version). This mark also has the words "SG Standards Compliant" written on it, and is proof that the following four safety requirements are met.

Safety standard items Detailed specifications
Frame Strength
  • Durability 1.5 times greater than JIS standard
  • Aluminum alloy frame
Braking performance
  • Braking distance within 3m from 10km/h
  • Hydraulic disc brake specifications
Fall prevention
  • Stand ground width = 80% or more of vehicle width
  • Auto-locking double stand
child seat
  • Five-point harness standard equipment
  • Shock-resistant cushioning material used
  • Adjustable headrest included

Points to check when purchasing

Check items Judging Criteria
Warranty information
  • Exact match of model number and serial number
  • Dealer stamp required
operating instructions
  • Where it says "for two people":
    • Cover or safety page
    • Whether or not the maximum load capacity is stated
Frame engraving
  • Check the expiration date of the BAA mark (2024 edition)
  • Engraved position: Bottom right side of the frame

▼ Special precautions for used cars

  • All used vehicles are excluded (including those with the BAA mark)
  • Required documents:
    • Original manufacturer's warranty
    • Proof of purchase (within the last 3 months)
    • Copy of crime prevention registration card

Towards future expansion of the system

Following Ako's pioneering example, Kobe and Himeji have also begun considering introducing similar systems. A unified prefectural system is expected to be formulated by the end of fiscal 2024, and it is expected to be linked to the Ministry of the Environment's "Green Lifestyle Promotion Project."

Download form

Application for subsidy for purchasing bicycle for two children (Word: 24KB)