Maine’s new electric vehicle rebate program gives low- and moderate-income residents up to $8,000 off the purchase of a new EV. The program, run by Efficiency Maine, also includes a $1,000 bonus that expires April 30, 2026.
Maine residents can now save up to $8,000 on a new electric vehicle through Efficiency Maine’s rebate program.
The rebate amount depends on income level. Low-income buyers can get $8,000 off a new vehicle or $4,000 off a used one. Moderate-income buyers can get $6,000 off a new vehicle or $3,000 off a used one. To qualify as low-income, a person must participate in MaineCare, HEAP, SNAP, or TANF. Moderate-income status applies to individuals with an adjusted gross income up to $70,000, or up to $100,000 for joint filers.
New vehicles must be priced at $55,000 or less, except pickups and vans, which can cost up to $80,000. Used vehicles must be from the U.S. Department of Energy’s approved list, be model year 2019 or newer, cost under $40,000, and have fewer than 72,000 miles. Leased vehicles don’t qualify.
Applicants must be Maine residents, at least 18 years old, and hold a valid driver’s license. They’re also required to buy and install an off-peak charger at their home before purchasing the vehicle. The charger must connect to Wi-Fi, be installed within 90 days, and be set up for off-peak charging. Street parking disqualifies applicants. A $300 discount reportedly brings the charger’s cost down to $129.
To apply, buyers complete an income verification form and get a verification letter. They then present that letter and charger confirmation at a participating dealership, where the discount is applied instantly. For direct manufacturer purchases, buyers must mail in a rebate claim within 60 days. Processing takes up to six weeks.
Each person can only receive one rebate, and households are limited to two rebates every 36 months. Buyers must also keep the vehicle registered in Maine for 36 months. Income verification letters must be dated within 12 months of purchase.
The program is partly funded by the Volkswagen Environmental Mitigation Trust. Previous participation in Efficiency Maine programs may affect eligibility. Direct manufacturer purchases are available only through Polestar, Rivian, and Tesla.
References
- https://www.edmunds.com/electric-car/tax-credits-rebates-incentives/maine/
- https://www.kbb.com/car-advice/electric-vehicle-rebates-by-state/
- https://www.efficiencymaine.com/electric-vehicle-incentives-for-low-and-moderate-income/
- https://afdc.energy.gov/laws/all?state=ME
- https://bradfordtaxinstitute.com/Endnotes/ME_Electric_Vehicle_Rebates.pdf
- https://themainemonitor.org/buying-electric-vehicles-2025/
- https://www.efficiencymaine.com/em-electric-vehicle-incentives/
