Amazon and Other Retailers Face Legal Action Over Sale of Prohibited Motorized Devices in NYC

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Amazon has addressed the cease-and-desist letters sent by New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani to 40 major retailers regarding the sale of restricted motorized scooters and e-bikes. These letters targeted online retailers like Wayfair, Walmart, Temu, Target, and Amazon. Mamdani demanded that these retailers halt the sale of illegal scooters and e-bikes to NYC consumers and businesses. Failure to comply by August 18 could result in fines of $2,000 according to Mamdani.

Reasons for Cease-and-Desist Letters

The letter’s issuance is tied to legal limitations on speed and wattage for these devices. Some products sold by these retailers surpass legally allowed speeds and wattage limits. Additionally, certain mopeds lack proper Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs). Mayor Mamdani has initiated legal proceedings against online retailers selling hazardous motorized devices. This includes high-speed e-bikes, stand-up e-scooters, and other products forbidden on NYC streets.

The legal speed for e-bikes in NYC is capped at 15 mph, and overall speed must fall between 20 to 25 mph, contingent upon the bike type. Scooters must not exceed 100 pounds in weight or a speed limit of 20 mph. Department of Transportation Commissioner Mike Flynn emphasized, “Let’s be clear, these are motorcycles being marketed to New Yorkers as bicycles.”

Incident Prompting the Action

These actions followed a fatal incident involving 17-year-old Gabriel Nacato, who was struck by an SUV while riding an e-bike in Lower Manhattan. He was traveling from Bensonhurst, intending to apply for summer jobs with a career counselor. “The vehicle he was riding is capable of reaching more than 30 miles per hour, a speed that should never be reached in our bike lanes,” stated Mamdani.

Amazon’s Response

An Amazon spokesperson informed Nexstar’s WPIX that the large corporation is reviewing the questioned products and is ready to collaborate with the mayor and City Council to rectify the issue. The spokesperson remarked, “Safety is a top priority and we require e-bikes sold in our store to meet applicable safety standards and Amazon policies.” Meanwhile, Target has yet to convey its response to WPIX’s inquiry on the matter.