California officials targeting $3,500 incentive for new EV rebate

By Alex Nieves | 05/22/2026 06:55 AM EDT

The California Air Resources Board hopes to launch the program on July 1.

A Nissan ARIYA electric vehicle is parked on a car dealer's lot, Monday, Feb. 6, 2023, in Manchester, N.H.

California plans to launch a new electric vehicle rebate program in July. Charles Krupa/AP Photo

Democratic Gov. Gavin Newsom’s proposed electric vehicle rebate program is likely to offer a $3,500 incentive for new car purchases, state officials said Wednesday.

What happened: California Air Resources Board staff told representatives from auto companies and environmental groups during a meeting that the agency’s proposed incentive program calls for the state to reimburse eligible EV buyers $1,750 and manufacturers to pony up the same amount. The program would also offer a $1,750 incentive for used vehicles.

State officials also asked manufacturers to indicate by June 1 if they’re interested in participating in the program, which CARB hopes to launch on July 1.

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Why it matters: The update comes after CARB staff told lawmakers at a March budget hearing that they were considering incentives ranging from $1,500 to $7,500.

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