California could soon offer first-time EV buyers up to $3,500 off

California could introduce a new rebate for first-time electric vehicle buyers, potentially cutting the upfront price by as much as $3,500. The MyFirstEV program, developed by the state and described in a press release from the Governor’s office, would offer up to $3,500 toward a qualifying new zero-emission vehicle or $1,750 toward a qualifying used EV. Automakers must opt in and contribute funds alongside the state. Cars.com reported that 13 brands have agreed to participate, including Ford, GM, Honda, Hyundai, Kia, Lucid, Mitsubishi, Nissan, Rivian, Subaru, Tesla, Toyota and Volvo, with a total state commitment of $135 million. The rebate is designed to apply immediately at purchase or lease, not as a later tax credit, and the program is expected to begin later this summer.