13 automakers confirmed their participation in the recently announced MyFirstEV incentive program in California.
The new scheme supports the purchase of the first zero-emission vehicle (new or used):
$3,500 off new electric vehicles with an MSRP up to $50,000
$1,750 off used electric vehicles sold for up to $25,000
The rebate is open to any Californian buying their first ZEV
There is no price cap for California-based manufacturers (including Lucid and Rivian)
As the instant rebate must be matched dollar-for-dollar by automakers, their participation is crucial.
The state shortlisted 13 automakers, some of which include multiple brands (we assume that all brands are involved in such cases). The list includes most manufacturers that offer EVs under $50,000.
Participating automakers include (alphabetically):
Ford
General Motors (Cadillac, Chevrolet, GMC)
Honda (probably including Acura brand)
Hyundai (probably including Genesis brand)
Kia
Lucid (no price cap)
Mitsubishi
Nissan
Rivian (no price cap)
Subaru
Tesla
Toyota (probably including Lexus brand)
Volvo
The list of major automakers that are not participating (at least for now) is nearly as long. It includes manufacturers that do not offer EVs under $50,000 (or only an entry-level version without options) or do not offer any EVs.
An interesting example is Stellantis, which technically has the Fiat 500e model, which would qualify for the program. The Volkswagen ID.4 is on its last legs, so the German brand is not participating, we believe.
Other automakers (alphabetically):
Aptera (not yet launched)
Audi
BMW (including Mini)
Jaguar Land Rover
Mazda
Mercedes-Benz
Polestar
Porsche
Slate (not yet launched)
Stellantis (including Dodge, Fiat, Jeep, Maserati)
Volkswagen
It’s expected that the MyFirstEV will start later this summer, contributing to the EV sales recovery after the $7,500 federal tax credit ended in Q3 2025.