- Governor Gavin Newsom announced that automakers are now offering instant rebates of up to $3,500 to Californians buying their first zero-emission vehicle (ZEV), savings that come off the price before you drive it off the lot, no applications or waiting required.
- As of today, Californians can walk into any Hyundai, Lucid, or Tesla dealer or sales center in the state to buy or lease their first ZEV through California's instant rebate program.
- The program covers battery electric and hydrogen fuel cell vehicles of model year 2026 and newer priced under $50,000, and used EVs under $25,000 qualify for up to $1,750.
- California has made progress in cleaning the air, but nearly 18 million residents live in areas with unhealthy air, and 1,500 die from air pollution every year in Southern California alone; transportation accounts for 60% of California's smog-forming pollution and 40% of its greenhouse gas emissions.
- Research shows long-term savings: the electric equivalent of a gallon of gasoline is $2.72 in California, while gasoline has not consistently dipped below $4.00 since 2021.
California Governor Gavin Newsom announced the launch of the 'MyFirstEV' program, providing $3,500 instant rebates for first-time buyers of zero-emission vehicles (ZEVs) at participating dealers including Hyundai, Lucid, and Tesla. This initiative is part of a broader effort to enhance air quality and combat climate change.12
The program is funded by $135.5 million from the state, which is expected to support approximately 73,000 new ZEV purchases. The rebates apply to new vehicles with a manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP) of up to $50,000 and also extend to used vehicles, offering $1,750 off for those priced under $25,000.34
“MyFirstEV makes EV ownership possible for more Californians,” said Yana Garcia, California’s Secretary for Environmental Protection. The program aims to reduce dependence on fossil fuels and promote cleaner air, especially as transportation accounts for 60% of California’s smog-forming pollution.
Despite challenges from federal policies, California is committed to advancing its own incentives. “California is once again leading with bold, decisive action,” stated Lauren Sanchez, Chair of the California Air Resources Board. The initiative is expected to provide significant savings for families, with electric vehicle costs averaging $2.72 per gallon equivalent compared to gasoline prices exceeding $4.00.6
The program is set to expand, with additional automakers like Ford, Rivian, and Toyota expected to join soon, further enhancing access to zero-emission vehicles for Californians.
“The rebate applies to new EVs under $50,000 and used EVs under $25,000, with low-income residents eligible for larger incentives via Clean Cars 4 All. Research shows the electric equivalent of a gallon of gasoline is $2.72 in California, versus gasoline above $4.00 since 2021.”
