California's Air Resources Board (ARB) announced today that it has funded the state's Clean Vehicle Rebate Project with an additional $6 million. Coupled with another $4.5 million from the California Energy Commission two weeks ago, the new funds should extend the rebate program until funds for next year become available.
Replacing traditional gas and diesel fired vehicles with electrics and hybrids is an important tactic in improving the state's air quality, particularly in Bakersfield and the San Joaquin Valley, which experience some of the worst air quality in the nation.
“This successful rebate program is helping establish California as the electric vehicle capital of the nation,” Air Resources Board Chairman Mary D. Nichols said. “The program is also helping
to clean the air and fight climate change by reducing our use of fossil fuels."
The rebate program provides up to $2,500 toward the purchase of certain qualified vehicles by individuals, nonprofits, government entities, and businesses. The rebates may also be combined with a federal tax credit of up to $7,500, as well as other, regional incentives.
Reflecting the strong California demand for zero-emission vehicles (ZEV) and plug-in hybrid electric vehicles, ARB said that it had issued more than $42 million for almost 20,000 rebates. With an average of 1,500 to 2,000 rebates per month, California accounts for almost 40 percent of all plug-in electric vehicle purchases nationwide although only 10 percent of the total car sales.
The program also helps California meet a directive by Governor Brown to support and facilitate the rapid commercialization of ZEVs, with a target of 1.5 million ZEVs by 2025 on California roadways.
The Clean Vehicle Rebate Project came into being as a result of Assembly Bill 118 in 2007. Funded by motor vehicle and vessel fees, the program is scheduled to end in 2015. However, the California Legislature is currently considering reauthorizing the successful program.
For more information, including which cars and models qualify, see this link:
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