Obama Administration Encourages Electric Cars with Instant Rebate

http://www.google.com/hostednews/ap/article/ALeqM5g00Fqop9TvHXNUVWoD4uDii2vBJw?docId=a6e5d8ec1c544d16aba8718b99bdfbfb

Obama administration wants rebate on electric cars

SMYRNA, Tenn. (AP) — U.S. Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood told a group of Nissan executives and workers on Tuesday that the Obama administration wants consumers to be able to get a tax rebate at dealerships when they buy electric cars.

The federal government currently offers a $7,500 tax credit on the purchase of electric vehicles, but that can't be taken until buyers file their income taxes.

The Leaf carries a manufacturer's suggested retail price in the U.S. of $32,780, much higher than most similar-sized, gas-powered cars. With the tax credit, the price is more like $25,000.
"We'd like for people to get a $7,500 rebate on the day they buy the Leaf," LaHood said, comparing it to the way the popular Cash for Clunkers program worked. Combined with state incentives, the rebate will allow people "to own a Leaf for what most average people can afford," he said.

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This should be an incentive for people to buy a new electric vehicle, I think. Waiting until you file your taxes doesn't provide the same type of incentive.

Sid

people. A rebate right up front would be great. I would love my next car to be electric.

I wonder if the Leaf is so spendy because of the rebate?

I can't wait for an affordable electric car!

If you file a return and claim the credit you'll get a refund check in the amount of the credit so it works for you too!

Sorry, it's not a refundable credit. That does suck.