California Launches ‘MyFirstEV’ Program: Up to $3,500 Instant Rebate for First-Time Buyers
California has officially begun funding for “MyFirstEV,” a new state program that offers up to $3,500 in instant discounts for first-time electric vehicle (EV) buyers.
According to the LA Times, Governor Gavin Newsom announced the release of funds for the initiative, which allocates $135 million in state budget. Under the program structure, the state government provides financial support while participating automakers cover the remaining cost.
First-time buyers purchasing a new EV receive an instant $3,500 rebate, while used EV purchases receive a 50% discount of $1,750.
Automaker Participation Schedule
The rollout schedule varies by manufacturer:
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Currently Available: Hyundai, Genesis, Tesla, and Lucid.
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Starting This Month: Kia, Ford, Rivian, and Chevrolet.
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September: Toyota, Honda, and Subaru.
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November: Mitsubishi.
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Under Adjustment: Nissan and Volvo.
Price Caps and Exceptions
To qualify, vehicles must meet specific price criteria set for participating brands:
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Standard Price Limits: New EVs must have a Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of $50,000 or less. Used EVs must have a selling price of $25,000 or less.
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Headquarters Exception: EVs produced and sold by automakers headquartered in California (such as Hyundai and Lucid) are exempt from price limits and qualify regardless of vehicle price.
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Excluded Vehicles: Plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs) are excluded from the program.
Rebates are not applied retroactively to vehicles purchased before an automaker officially launches its program. Buyers can apply after starting the purchase process by submitting an online confirmation form at ww2.arb.ca.gov/myfirstev.
Potential Areas of Confusion for Consumers
As the program takes effect, several detailed eligibility criteria may cause confusion:
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Past PHEV Ownership: California differentiates Battery Electric Vehicles (BEVs) from PHEVs in certain green vehicle regulations, but includes PHEVs under electrified vehicles in others. It remains unclear how prior PHEV ownership affects first-time buyer eligibility.
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Headquarters Location Rules: Tesla moved its headquarters from California to Austin, Texas in 2021, but continues to manufacture vehicles at its Fremont plant. It is unclear whether Tesla will receive the price cap exemption granted to California-based manufacturers.
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Options vs. Base MSRP: For models exceeding $50,000 with added options, it remains uncertain whether eligibility is judged on base MSRP or total price including options.
Experts advise buyers to verify final criteria provided by automakers and the California Air Resources Board (CARB) rather than rushing into vehicle contracts.
