NEW YORK (WPIX) – New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani has initiated a legal effort to stop the sale of certain motorized scooters and e-bikes, which has prompted a response from major online retailer, Amazon.

Cease-and-desist letters were sent to 40 major retailers, including Wayfair, Walmart, Temu, Target, and Amazon. These letters demand that the retailers immediately halt sales of the prohibited scooters and e-bikes to New York City residents and businesses. Failure to comply could result in $2,000 fines effective August 18, according to Mamdani.

Reasons for the Cease-and-Desist

The prohibited nature of these scooters and e-bikes is due to their violation of legal speed and wattage limits. Some of these products exceed the speed limits set by the city and lack proper Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs). Mayor Mamdani highlighted the illegal sale of dangerous motorized devices, which include high-speed e-bikes and stand-up e-scooters, that are unsuitable for New York City streets.

In New York City, the speed limit for e-bikes is 15 mph. The maximum allowable speed for e-bikes ranges from 20 to 25 mph depending on the model, whereas scooters should not weigh more than 100 pounds or go faster than 20 mph. Department of Transportation Commissioner Mike Flynn emphasized, “These are motorcycles being marketed to New Yorkers as bicycles.”

This action follows the tragic death of 17-year-old Gabriel Nacato, who was fatally struck by an SUV while riding an e-bike in Lower Manhattan. The incident happened as Gabriel was heading from Bensonhurst to attend summer job application counseling. The e-bike he was riding could reach speeds exceeding 30 mph, a speed deemed unsafe for bike lanes, noted Mamdani.

Amazon’s Reaction

Amazon responded, stating its commitment to examining the products mentioned. A spokesperson for Amazon affirmed the company’s willingness to collaborate with the mayor and City Council. They reiterated that safety remains a priority, and Amazon requires e-bikes sold in its store to comply with applicable safety standards and company policies.

Meanwhile, Target has yet to provide feedback or comments in response to WPIX’s inquiry on the matter.