Key facts
- California has launched a new instant rebate program for first-time electric vehicle buyers.
- The MyFirstEV program offers $3,500 for new EVs priced under $50,000.
- A $1,750 rebate is available for used EVs costing less than $25,000.
- The program aims to make EVs more accessible to families.
- This initiative follows the federal government's abolition of the IRS clean vehicle tax credit.
California Governor Gavin Newsom has signed a new instant rebate program aimed at increasing electric vehicle adoption, particularly for first-time buyers. The MyFirstEV Zero Emissions Vehicles program, effective immediately, provides a $3,500 rebate at the point of purchase for new electric vehicles costing less than $50,000. Additionally, a $1,750 rebate is available for used EVs priced under $25,000.
This initiative comes after the federal government, under President Trump and congressional Republicans, abolished the IRS clean vehicle tax credit earlier this year. The removal of the up to $7,500 federal credit, which had income and vehicle price caps, led to a significant drop in EV sales across the US, prompting automakers to reconsider product lines.
Newsom stated that California is accelerating its clean future efforts, contrasting with federal policies he described as polluting the air and surrendering the clean car industry. He emphasized that the new rebate program makes it easier for families to choose cleaner vehicles that are also more economical.