New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani has issued cease-and-desist letters to major online retailers such as Amazon, Wayfair, Walmart, Temu, and Target. These letters demand an immediate halt to the sale of prohibited motorized scooters and e-bikes in New York City. Non-compliance could result in fines of $2,000 starting August 18. This move addresses the sale of products that exceed legal speed and wattage limits, with some models lacking proper vehicle identification numbers (VINs).

The legal action, which targets illegal sales of high-speed e-bikes and scooters, follows the tragic accident involving a 17-year-old, Gabriel Nacato, who was fatally struck by an SUV while riding an e-bike in Lower Manhattan. Mayor Mamdani emphasized the dangers of these vehicles, stating that many marketed as bicycles are actually motorcycles. New York City’s legal speed limit for e-bikes is 15 mph, with certain bikes allowed a maximum speed between 20-25 mph. Scooters should not weigh more than 100 pounds or exceed 20 mph.

“Let’s be clear, these are motorcycles being marketed to New Yorkers as bicycles,” said Department of Transportation Commissioner Mike Flynn.

Following the incident, Amazon responded, indicating they will review the questioned products and collaborate with the mayor and City Council to resolve the issue. An Amazon spokesperson emphasized that safety is a priority and that e-bikes sold on their platform must adhere to safety standards and Amazon’s policies. So far, Target has not responded to requests for comment.