Summary
- Washington launched instant rebate program for electric vehicles with rebates up to $9,000
- Dealerships apply rebates at point of sale, eliminating need for customers to apply
- Individuals and households up to 300% of federal poverty level eligible for rebates
- Used electric vehicles eligible for rebates
- Program aims to make EVs more affordable and accessible, especially for ride-share drivers
Article
Washington state recently launched an instant rebate program in August 2024 to make it easier and cheaper for residents to purchase or lease electric vehicles. The program offers rebates of up to $9,000 for leasing or purchasing an electric vehicle, with participating dealerships applying the rebate at the point of sale. This is aimed at encouraging more Washingtonians to experience the benefits of driving an electric vehicle, such as lower gas costs and reduced emissions.
Individuals and households making up to 300% of the federal poverty level are eligible for the rebate program, with qualifying residents earning up to $45,180 annually or a family of four with a household income up to $93,600 eligible for rebates. The program covers new electric vehicle leases of three years or more with rebates of up to $9,000 or $5,000 for new EV purchases or two-year leases. Used electric vehicles are also eligible for a $2,500 rebate on purchases and leases.
There is $45 million earmarked for the program, which is expected to provide between 7,500 to 9,000 rebates depending on the type of vehicle and lease versus purchase options. The rebates come from the state’s general fund and not from revenue generated from carbon auctions under the Climate Commitment Act. Participating businesses, including dealerships, used car lots, and manufacturers selling directly to buyers like Tesla, can provide the rebates. More than 200 businesses had enrolled in the program as of the launch.
As of June, there were approximately 194,232 electric vehicles registered in Washington, with EVs accounting for around one in every five new cars sold in the state. The rebates offered by the state can be combined with federal and automaker incentives, potentially making monthly lease payments for some EV models less than $100 for qualifying consumers. This program aims to level the playing field for those who may not be able to purchase a new vehicle or choose not to own one, while also benefiting frontline communities disproportionately affected by air pollution from traditional vehicles.
The instant rebate program has been welcomed by individuals whose livelihoods depend on having a vehicle, such as ride-share drivers. Kathryn Jensen, who works with ride-share drivers, noted that this program makes EV purchases more accessible and affordable, especially for those who travel long distances frequently. By encouraging more people to drive electric vehicles, the program not only reduces emissions but also benefits communities exposed to air pollution from traditional vehicle exhaust. Additionally, electrification should be part of a broader strategy to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, including bolstering public transportation services and reducing the overall number of vehicles on the road.
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