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Maximize EV Savings Before the Tax Credit Expires

Time-Sensitive Opportunity: If you’re considering adding an electric vehicle (EV) to your personal or business fleet, now is the time to act. The lucrative federal EV tax credits, a financial incentive for eco-conscious consumers and businesses alike, are set to expire after September 30, 2025. This impending change necessitates immediate attention.

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Understanding the Change and Its Implications

The termination of the One Big Beautiful Bill Act era tax credits is happening sooner than expected. The credits, which were initially meant to last until 2032, will now conclude on September 30, 2025, with no provisions for grace periods or future deliverable exceptions. This means:

  • New EV Credit: Up to $7,500

  • Used EV Credit: Up to $4,000

  • Commercial EV Credit: Varying from $7,500 to $40,000, depending on vehicle weight

Critical Deadlines and Acquisition Rules

To capitalize on these credits, ownership must be finalized by September 30, 2025. A vehicle merely contracted or in post-deadline delivery won't qualify.

EV Leasing vs. Buying
For leased EVs, the tax benefit typically extends to the manufacturer or dealer, who might lower leasing costs as a result. This workaround, however, ends come September’s deadline. Post-deadline leases or purchases will not benefit from the reduced costs.

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Mandatory Actions for Dealers and Buyers

  • Act Swiftly: Determine availability and delivery dates before the exemption lapses.

  • Know Transfer Options: Elect to apply the credit during purchase for immediate discounts or claim via IRS Form 8936 later.

  • Understand Eligibility Requirements:
    ○ New EVs: Must adhere to sourcing, assembly, and pricing criteria—income thresholds apply.
    ○ Used EVs: At least two years old, a ceiling of $25,000, with a potential $4,000 or 30% price credit.
    ○ Commercial EVs: Assessed by weight with no income cap.

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Market Projected Impacts

Analysts anticipate a substantial surge in EV acquisitions as consumers act to beat the deadline, potentially followed by a dip in the market. A Harvard study predicts a 6% reduction in EV market share by 2030. While this might yield $169 billion in government savings over ten years (Reuters), it underscores the urgency.

Proactive buyers still stand to gain, provided they act quickly to secure these savings.

Quick Reference Guide

Credit Type

Amount

Eligibility

Deadline

New EV (individual)

Up to $7,500

Sourcing, assembly, and price compliance

Possession by Sep 30, 2025

Used EV

Up to $4,000 (or 30%)

Minimum 2 years old, max $25K

Same as above

Commercial EV

Up to $40,000

Based on weight for business use

Same as above

Leasing loophole

Up to $7,500

Ending post-Sep 30

Included above

Final Thoughts: Don’t Delay

If switching to an EV is in your plans, expedite your decisions: confirm orders, secure delivery dates, and verify credit eligibility. Consult your tax adviser to ensure all requirements align. Don’t let this financial incentive bypass you.

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