Many look to federal EV tax credits to save money when making the switch to electric. But there are plenty of other ways to score a deal on your electric ride, especially if your chosen vehicle was cut from federal tax rebates. Beyond traditional tax breaks, interested drivers can look to other EV rebates to cut costs.

Have you already checked out our guide to federal tax incentives? Ready to learn other ways you can find EV deals as you make the switch to electric? In this quick read, we’ll cover four avenues to go down when searching for ways to get a deal on an electric vehicle.

Manufacturer Incentives

Many automakers offer their own incentive programs for purchasing or leasing an EV. These incentives may include cash rebates, discounted rates, or financing offers. Before you head to a dealership, research manufacturer promotions for the EVs you’re most interested in to uncover potential savings. For example you can search “Kia EV Manufacturer Incentives” in your browser.

State and Local Rebates

While federal tax rebates are the first place people look for savings, they’re not the only place to find tax cuts.

Several states and local governments offer their own incentives for EV buyers and lessees. These incentives can include cash rebates, tax credits, immediate price reductions, or reduced registration fees. Check with your state’s department of transportation or energy office to learn more about available incentives in your area. We touch on state rebates in our tax incentive resource.

Utility Company Programs

Utility companies are getting in on the action, too. Some provide subsidies and rebates for EV owners, particularly those who install EV chargers at home. Incentives may come in the form of discounted electricity rates for EV charging, free installation of home charging stations, or even cash rebates. Contact your utility provider or shop around to inquire about available programs and incentives.

Dealer Discounts and Negotiations

Don’t overlook good ol’ fashioned negotiation when buying or leasing an EV. Dealerships may offer discounts, rebates, or special financing options to incentivize EV sales.

When shopping around, be intentional about timing. Visit toward the end of the month when sales reps are willing to negotiate to make their quotas. Stop by toward the end of the year when vehicles are on the brink of being replaced by newer models. Research competitive pricing, leverage multiple quotes, and don’t be afraid to move on. When negotiating the best EV deals, you need to be patient.

Looking for more tips and tricks of EV ownership? Check out these:

• Discover ways to stay connected to EV owners in your area
• The benefit of buying an EV over leasing one
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