In Germany employers can offer the employees a bike leasing program through one of several providers (like Jobrad). This is tax exempt and allows people to pay the monthly rate from their gross salary. The contract lasts three years after which you can return the bike or buy it for a small price. This greatly accelerated e-bike prevalence in Germany.

The vast majority of e-bikes in Germany are pedelecs that offer electrical support for riders up to 250 watts and only up to a speed of 25km/h (15mph). Bikes that go faster or where one doesn’t need to pedal at all need a license plate and special insurance.