Research shows that once drivers try an EV, they stick with them. That’s why these incentives target those who’ve never owned one to maximize the bang for the buck.

I also note that the most expensive electric vehicles largely do not qualify

Those rebates — offered at the point of sale, or “cash on the hood” in car dealership parlance — do have limits, though income isn’t one of them. The program is open to California residents regardless of how much they earn, as long as it’s their first ZEV. It applies only to fully electric vehicles, not hybrids. For new ZEVs, the cost of the vehicle must have an MSRP of $50,000 or less, and $25,000 for a manufacturer pre-owned vehicle program.

An exception: If the manufacturer is headquartered in California and its entire fleet consists of ZEVs, there is no limit on the MSRP or used-vehicle sales price. The most notable companies that qualify in that category are Rivian and Lucid; while Tesla originally operated out of California, Elon Musk moved headquarters to Texas in 2021, meaning its vehicles are subject to the $50,000 cap — so while some lower-end models will qualify, you’re out of luck on a rebate for a new Cybertruck, Model S sedan or pricier Tesla trims.