California Governor Gavin Newsom (D) has outlined a proposed $200 million EV incentive program available to first-time EV buyers as a point-of-sale rebate.
Automakers To Match Incentive Amount
The automakers participating in the program would be required to match the incentive amount offered to customers, according to the California Air Resources Board (CARB) Chair Lauren Sanchez, via a post on LinkedIn on Monday.
Sanchez shared in the post that the administration's goal was to "move fast to support the market while ensuring accessibility and impact by prioritizing first-time ZEV buyers, including used cars."
The bill, which has yet to be approved by lawmakers, proposes incentives on passenger vehicles priced up to $55,000, while SUVs, Pickup trucks, and Vans priced up to $80,000 also qualify. The incentive would also be applicable for used EVs up to $25,000.
The final amount of the incentive is yet to be decided and will be determined by the CARB.
The program comes after President Donald Trump announced the axing of the $7,500 Federal EV Credit last September. Newsom has been a vocal critic of Trump's anti-EV stance. The Governor, in 2024, had said that he would propose a new EV credit program.
CARB Hails Canada-China Deal
Check out more of Benzinga’s Future Of Mobility coverage by following this link.
Image via Shutterstock
© 2026 Benzinga.com. Benzinga does not provide investment advice. All rights reserved.

