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Advanced technology generally costs more than outgoing approaches especially in the transportation realm. Acknowledging this fact of life, our munificent federal government instituted tax credits for those who purchase or lease battery-electric (BEV) and plug-in hybrid (PHEV) vehicles. While the PHEV dollar amount depends on battery size, all BEVs qualify for a generous $7500 credit.

The fine print limits this give back to each manufacturer’s first 200,000 sales. Tesla and Chevrolet are closing in on that figure so, if a Model 3 or Bolt EV are on your shopping list, you must act fast to avoid disappoint come tax return time. Tesla buyers will be eligible for the full $7500 this year, then $3750 in 2019, then no federal credit starting in 2020. Extensions are theoretically possible, but don’t count on them occurring under the current Trump administration.

Green-minded states are also doing their share to encourage BEV ownership. The most generous example is Colorado which provides a $5000 credit to BEV buyers. Maryland offers $3000. California and several other states will lower your out-of-pocket expense by $2500.

While tax credits to offset the cost of home and business recharging infrastructure expired in 2016, there are bills before Congress to reenact them. Let your government representatives know how you stand on this vital issue.

Public utilities have done their part by offering electric rate discounts to customers who charge their electric vehicles during evening hours—when excess generating capacity exists—with or without a smart meter.

To read more on this subject, visit  https://pluginamerica.org/why-go-plug-in/state-federal-incentives/

Another good source listing the 38 BEV and PHEV vehicles currently on the market and how their driving efficiency surpasses conventional alternatives is  www.fueleconomy.gov