Opinion
Ariel Roblin: California’s new EV incentives help drive us to a more sustainable future
Starting this month, California is offering thousands of dollars to help people buy their first electric vehicle.
California’s new EV incentives are an instant $3,500 rebate for a new electric vehicle, and $1,750 for used cars and trucks.
The aim is to expand the pool of EV drivers, rather than subsidizing those of us who are already on board.
It makes sense. By eliminating tailpipe emissions, EVs dramatically improve local air quality and reduce some emissions that drive climate change.
In the long term, that can save the state money.
Drivers also benefit from lower maintenance and operating expenses, especially with high gas prices.
Thanks to our state’s expanding charging networks, choosing an EV could be a practical step toward cleaner, more affordable transportation.
Once these incentives go into effect, buyers will receive the discount at the point of sale. That means no waiting until tax season.
At this point, these incentives are only for vehicles under specific price caps, $50,000 for new cars, and $25,000 for used vehicles.
The exception is for cars made by EV companies headquartered in California, like Rivian or Lucid Motors.
While EVs aren’t for everyone, incentives help make them more affordable and accessible to those who DO want one.
Which helps us all head toward a more sustainable, climate-resilient future.
Ariel Roblin is the president and general manager of KCRA 3 and My58. See more of her editorials here.