Charge up, Washington! State launches rebate program for electric vehicles

The Washington State Department of Commerce just hit the accelerator on a new program to provide up to $9,000 in rebates for low-income households that purchase electric vehicles.

At a press conference outside Lumen Field in Seattle, Gov. Jay Inslee and Commerce Director Mike Fong launched the state’s Electric Vehicle Instant Rebate Program Thursday as the Blue Angels roared overhead.

“They’re celebrating,” Inslee said. “That is the sound of freedom. Freedom from gasoline.”

RELATED: Surge of new EV charging stations coming to Washington state

The program provides rebates for households earning less than 300% of the federal poverty level, allowing individuals earning around $45,000 and families of four earning $93,000 or less to benefit.

“We want to get as many Washingtonians as possible, regardless of their economic circumstances, to experience the thrill of having an EV,” Inslee said.

Fong emphasized that the $45 million program, the first of its kind in the nation, aims to enhance equity and address climate change. He said the rebates would address multiple goals.

"Number one is to address climate change and aggressively pursue strategies,” he said.

The rebate can be applied instantly at participating dealerships, making it easier for residents to make the switch to electric.

RELATED: Want an EV? Washington state offers $45 million in rebates

Industry professionals and advocates, including Cameron Steinback, climate justice program manager at Front and Centered, emphasized the program's significance for climate justice and equity.

“Electrifying our transportation would benefit frontline communities who are disproportionately exposed to air pollution from diesel exhaust and oil extraction, which can lead to increased risk of heart disease, lung disease, and cancer,” Steinback said.

Front and Centered is made up of communities of color, Indigenous peoples, and low-income individuals on the frontlines of climate and environmental change.

The rebate program is set to transform EV adoption in Washington, backed by the installation of 5,000 new EV chargers statewide. Inslee noted that as EV prices continue to drop, the transition will become increasingly feasible for all residents.

RELATED: More than 20% of new cars purchased in Washington state are electric

To learn more about the Washington EV Instant Rebate Program, click here.