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Friday, April 11, 2025 | Department of Environmental Protection
 The Trump administration has announced 25% tariffs on imported automobiles as well as blanket 10% tariffs on imports from over 90 countries. Montgomery County DEP may not be experts on global trade, but this month we've collected a rundown of recent news articles about the tariff policy and other recent policy changes that could impact the EV market locally and globally.
Here are some things to know:
Tariff chaos sends some drivers racing to buy, while others pump the brakes (NPR) - The threat of tariffs has triggered something of a gold rush on America's auto lots. Automakers are offering big discounts and some buyers are racing to shop before prices rise. But it's a boom driven by anxiety that also contains some warning signs for the economy — and for budget-minded shoppers in particular.
Electric Vehicle industry braces for tariff impact (CBS News) - Video interview with Albert Gore III, Executive Director of Zero Emission Transportation Association.
Here's Every Single EV About To Get Hit With Tariffs (Inside EVs) - It turns out "Made in America" means a lot less when you pop the hood (or frunk) of your new car. With Trump's new 25% auto tariffs setting in this morning like a regulatory bulldozer, the whole EV market—we're talking cars assembled in China to Hyundais assembled in Georgia—is suddenly staring at more expensive production costs and potentially higher prices.
Pre-tariff ‘pull-ahead demand’ adds extra 153,000 vehicle sales in March (Car Dealership Guy)- March set off a mad race to a dealership—akin to a sugar high. But the next leg or so of the run will set the pace, as that high settles into the new reality of tariffs.
IRS fixes EV tax credit glitch for 2024 as dealerships tackle portal problems (USA Today) - Some drivers who bought electric vehicles in 2024 have found it impossible to claim their EV tax credits now when filing their tax returns, thanks to a glitch... A fix could be on the way. But you're going to need to see your car dealer, not your tax professional, first.
Moore issues executive order that could delay EV sales penalties (Maryland Matters) - Gov. Wes Moore (D) issued an executive order [April 4] that could delay initial penalties for electric vehicle manufacturers who do not meet sales goals under a prescriptive state plan that is supposed to take effect next year. The order will maximize the Maryland Department of Environment’s enforcement discretion “to ease compliance” with the rule – including by declining to enforce penalties for model years 2027 and 2028.
UK to relax electric car rules as US tariffs hit (BBC) - The government has announced a relaxation of electric vehicle (EV) sales targets to help the car industry in the face of trade tariffs from the US. A ban selling new petrol and diesel cars will still come into effect in 2030, but manufacturers will now have more flexibility on annual targets and face lower fines.
EU, China will look into setting minimum prices on electric vehicles, EU says (Reuters) - The European Union and China have agreed to look into setting minimum prices of Chinese-made electric vehicles instead of tariffs imposed by the EU last year, a European Commission spokesperson said on Thursday.
 Applications are now open for the Montgomery County Food Truck Generator Electrification Pilot Program.
Montgomery County is taking noise and pollution off the menu for food trucks by providing incentives to replace gasoline- and diesel-powered generators with clean and quiet battery power systems.
Mobile food service businesses (a.k.a. food trucks and trailers) licensed in Montgomery County can receive zero-interest financing and cash incentives to purchase and install battery power systems thanks to a generous grant from the Maryland Energy Administration (MEA).
Each replaced fuel generator will save businesses thousands of dollars in fuel and maintenance costs, take 4 cars' worth of carbon emissions off the road, and reduce unhealthy noise and air pollution for the benefit of employees and customers.
There are two options for receiving incentives.
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Loan Incentive Option: Receive a zero-interest, 24-month loan for up to $25,000 plus $1,000 installation incentive. Or,
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Direct Payment Option: Receive 20% of the cost of equipment and installation up to $5,000.
Want to Apply for Incentives?
Please complete the Application Form now available on the program website. Full program details, eligibility information, and participating vendors can are provided on the program website.
There are lots of exciting opportunities available for job seekers. Check out DEP’s Green Job Portal for climate and sustainability jobs.
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 Greater Washington Region Clean Cities Coalition
Earth Day - 5K Walk & Alternative Fuel Vehicle Display and Green Expo
Where: The National Mall
When: Saturday, April 19, 2025. Expo and Display: 10AM - 3PM
 10th Annual Montgomery County GreenFest
Visit the Website for more details
Where: Marian Fryer Town Plaza - 2424 Reedie Dr, Wheaton, MD
When: Saturday, April 26, 2025, 11am - 4pm
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