California launches MyFirstEV instant rebate program for first-time buyers

What you need to know: Californians buying their first zero-emission vehicle can now get $1,750-$3,500 off a new or used model from select automakers through California's MyFirstEV program. By matching the state's $135 million investment, these automakers are helping deliver a combined $270 million in total savings to help more Californians go electric.

SACRAMENTO - Today, Governor Gavin Newsom announced that three automakers are now offering instant rebates through California's MyFirstEV program. Now Californians can walk into any Hyundai, Lucid or Tesla dealer or sales center and buy or lease their first zero-emission vehicle (ZEV) with a $3,500 discount on a new model or $1,750 off used.

Additional automakers are planning to launch later this month and throughout the fall, including:

• August: Ford, Rivian, Chevrolet, Kia
• September: Toyota/Lexus, Honda, and Subaru
• November: Mitsubishi
• TBD: Nissan and Volvo are still determining launch timelines.

"California is once again leading with bold, decisive action and expanding access to the benefits of zero-emission vehicles with the launch of the MyFirstEV program," said California Air Resources Board Chair Lauren Sanchez. "This program means more than just new technology for California families - it means cleaner air for their children, lower maintenance costs, and the opportunity to be part of California's clean air future."

Yana Garcia, California's Secretary for Environmental Protection added, "MyFirstEV makes EV ownership possible for more Californians, and with this program, we continue to lead through innovative policies that clean our air, protect health and provide more affordable options for working people."

How it works

For Californians who have been waiting for the right moment to go electric, that moment is here. The MyFirstEV program is making it easy by giving shoppers instant savings right at the dealership and built into the sales process.

Here's what buyers need to know:

• The program is open to any Californian buying or leasing their first ZEV
• $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
• Availability will vary by manufacturer and dealership
• Participation is first-come, first-served and the funding will be available until it runs out
• Vehicles ordered or purchased before a participating manufacturer has launched will not be eligible to receive an incentive

Interested Californians should contact participating automakers for more information. Links to manufacturer websites are available on the MyFirstEV program webpage and information will be added as it becomes available.

Why it matters

California has made great progress in cleaning the air. Still, nearly 18 million residents live in areas with unhealthy air and 1,500 die from air pollution every year in Southern California alone.

With transportation accounting for 60% of California's smog-forming pollution and 40% of its greenhouse gas emissions, the state must continue cutting vehicle emissions to meet national air quality standards, fulfill state goals, and fight climate change.

Cleaner vehicles will also save Californians billions of dollars in vehicle maintenance and healthcare costs as the state continues to advance ZEV deployment.

Related efforts

MyFirstEV is part of a recent $600 million investment to help advance California's clean air and climate goals. Funded with Cap-and-Invest proceeds and smog-abatement fees, this year's budget included:

• $150 million for the Community Air Protection Program, which can support clean transportation projects
• $19.8 million for Californians with lower incomes through Clean Cars 4 All
• $35 million for clean off-road equipment through the Air Quality Improvement Program
• $135.5 million for California's Clean Truck and Bus Voucher Incentive Project (HVIP)
• $130 million to replace polluting heavy-duty engines through the Carl Moyer Program