California Launches $135.5 Million Electric Vehicle Rebate Program

California Governor Gavin Newsom on Friday announced the rollout of the state's new electric vehicle instant rebate program for first-time buyers or lessees, touting it as part of an investment in the state's clean-vehicle future.

MyFirstEV Program Offers $3,500 Off New EVs, $1,750 Off Used EVs

The MyFirstEV program offers $3,500 off any new zero-emission vehicle priced up to $50,000, and $1,750 off a used EV priced up to $25,000 through the manufacturer's certified pre-owned vehicle program. California's $135.5 million investment in the program is matched by participating automakers at the point of sale.

Participating Automakers Include Hyundai, Tesla, Ford, and More

The program began Friday with Hyundai/Genesis, Lucid, and Tesla participating in the initial rollout. Other EV manufacturers participating later this month will include Ford, Rivian, Chevrolet and Kia. Next month, Toyota/Lexus, Honda and Subaru will join the program, while Mitsubishi will begin in November. Nissan and Volvo's participation dates are still being determined.

Program Aims to Boost Clean Vehicle Adoption in California

Buyers would have to sign a document attesting that the electric vehicle is the first one they have bought or leased. The MyFirstEV program, which Newsom signed into law last month as part of Senate Bill 168, is part of California's $600 million push toward more clean-vehicle usage included in the 2026-2027 budget.

The money is also earmarked for clean transportation projects, clean bus and truck voucher incentives, replacement of heavy-duty polluting engines, and help for clean vehicle purchase for Californians with lower incomes.

Newsom Touts California's Clean Energy Leadership

Newsom had promised to renew a rebate program for electric vehicles in the state if the Trump administration eliminated the federal tax credit, which was accomplished after Congress passed the administration's