|
The California Air Resources Board (CARB or Board) invites you to participate in a virtual workshop where we will discuss proposed program policies for the Governor’s proposed new zero emission vehicle (ZEV) incentive program. We are continuing the conversation started during the March public workshop, where we gathered feedback on the Governor’s proposed new ZEV incentive program included in the proposed Budget. This session will provide an update on the proposed program policies for the new ZEV incentive program.
The workshop will be held virtually via Zoom:
Date: Wednesday, May 20, 2026
Time: 9:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.
(approximate end time; may be earlier than listed)
Location: Zoom webinar
All interested parties are invited to attend the workshop virtually. Please register for the meeting. After you register, you will receive an email with information about how to join the meeting by digital/computer device or telephone on the day of the meeting.
Workshop materials will be available on CARB’s webpage approximately one week before the workshop. This workshop will be recorded and posted approximately two weeks after the workshop date. A link to the recording will be made available and posted on the CARB Events Calendar webpage.
Background
In January the Governor’s Budget proposed a $200 million new upstream incentive program for the deployment of ZEVs. The program aims to strengthen the state’s ZEV market and support American auto innovation as companies face unpreceded uncertainty due to recent federal government actions. The design of the program is also aimed at reducing the upfront cost of ZEVs for Californians, making them more affordable for first-time buyers.
Under this proposal, the California Air Resources Board (CARB) would partner with participating automakers via grant agreements to “buy-down” the upfront sticker price (i.e. Manufacturers Suggested Retail Price – MSRP) of ZEVs, with the participating automakers matching the state’s contribution, effectively doubling the incentive available to ZEV buyers. The incentives will be offered at the point-of-sale for first-time buyers or lessees of new or used ZEVs, with higher incentives for new vehicles and lower for used ones. The program will follow price caps established by the federal Inflation Reduction Act of 2022: $55,000 for new passenger vehicles, $80,000 for vans, SUVs, and pickup trucks, and $25,000 for used vehicles to expand access to more affordable ZEVs. Incentive amounts would be determined through a CARB administered public process.
CARB will safeguard program funds by reviewing and approving invoices submitted by participating automakers/original manufacturers (OEMs) through a reimbursement process, supported by additional legal protections outlined in each grant agreement’s terms and conditions.
|
