Main Topics Covered
- Expiration of the Federal EV Tax Credit: Key dates, eligibility, and implications for buyers.
- Eligible Vehicles and Manufacturers: Overview of which models currently qualify.
- Dealership Perspectives: Reactions from various brand dealerships about demand and buyer behavior.
- Leasing Loopholes & Strategies: How leasing can still provide tax credit benefits.
- Inventory and Pricing Dynamics: Discussion of current stock levels, potential shortages, and future pricing.
- Practical Buying Advice: Strategies for timing your purchase or lease.
- 3W Floor Mats Sponsorship: Brief review and practical impressions.
---
Key Takeaways & Insights💾
- September 30th Deadline: To qualify for the $7,500 federal tax credit, buyers must take delivery of an eligible EV by September 30th, 2024—not just place an order.
- 20 Models Across 12 Manufacturers: There are currently 20 EV models from 12 automakers that qualify for the federal tax credit, but income and vehicle price caps apply.
- Leasing Offers a Workaround: Some vehicles not eligible for the purchase credit can still provide the $7,500 benefit through leasing—manufacturers may pass this on as a cap cost reduction.
- Dealer Response Varies: Most dealerships hadn’t seen a significant uptick in demand (as of the recording), with notable exceptions at Kia and Chevy, where buyers are reacting to the credit’s pending expiration.
- Pricing and Inventory: Expect a spike in demand and possible inventory shortages as the deadline approaches. Afterward, manufacturers may lower prices to stimulate sales.
- Income and Price Limits: New vehicle buyers must meet income restrictions ($300K joint, $150K single) and MSRP caps ($80K SUV/truck, $55K sedan); used EVs have lower thresholds and a $4,000 tax credit, also expiring.
---
Actionable Strategies💾
- Buy or Lease Before September 30th: If you want the tax credit, ensure you take delivery by the deadline.
- Check Vehicle & Buyer Eligibility: Confirm both your income and the specific model's manufacturing origin and price before committing.
- Consider Leasing: Especially for higher-priced or foreign-made EVs, leasing may still allow you to receive the tax credit via manufacturer incentives.
- Shop Early: As the deadline nears, inventory may dwindle and demand may
spike, reducing your choices.
- Be Wary of Dealer Games: For used EVs, verify advertised prices and
whether they include the tax credit—call ahead to avoid surprises.
- Monitor Manufacturer Incentives: After the deadline, look for potential
price drops or new incentives from automakers.---
Specific Details & Examples💾
- Eligible Vehicles: Includes Honda Prologue, Kia EV6/EV9, Hyundai Ioniq 5/9, Ford F-150 Lightning, GMC Sierra EV (under $80K), Jeep Wagoneer S, Cadillac models (within price cap), Acura ZDX, Chrysler Pacifica plug-in hybrid, Genesis GV70, Tesla (certain Model 3s, Model Y, some Cybertrucks), and Chevy Blazer/Equinox/Silverado EV.
- Dealership Reactions:
- GMC: Only high-priced Denali Sierras in stock—not eligible for credit.
- Honda: No surge in demand yet; buyers with negative equity using lease incentives to roll over balances.
- Hyundai: Ample inventory, no current rush, but expects possible spike.
- Kia: Noted increase in demand specifically due to credit expiry.
- Acura/Cadillac: No significant change in buyer behavior, but Cadillac expects a late rush.
- Tesla: Proactively contacting buyers, large inventory, clear messaging about the expiring credit.
- Chevy (via Cadillac manager): Noted uptick in demand, especially for Equinox and Blazer EVs.
- Leasing Loophole Example: A $90K German-made EV leased by the host’s wife qualified for the $7,500 credit as a lease cap cost reduction.
---
Warnings & Common Mistakes💾
- Assuming Placing an Order is Sufficient: You must take delivery by September 30th, not just order.
- Overlooking Income or Price Caps: Exceeding these makes you ineligible.
- Waiting Too Long: Risk of depleted inventory and limited choices as the deadline approaches.
- Falling for Used Car Price Tricks: Some dealers advertise prices assuming the tax credit—confirm before visiting.
- Leasing Pitfalls: Not all manufacturers pass on the full $7,500 to the lessee—verify the deal specifics.
---
Resources & Next Steps💾
- Check IRS and Manufacturer Websites: For up-to-date eligible vehicle lists and detailed requirements.
- Consult Your Accountant: To confirm personal eligibility based on income and filing status.
- Dealership Outreach: Contact local dealers early to confirm inventory and eligibility for the credit.
- Monitor Manufacturer Promotions: Especially post-September 30th for price changes or new deals.
- Watch Related Videos: The host mentions a prior video on used EV dealerships and their tactics.
- 3W Floor Mats: Sponsored product; the host recommends them for Tesla owners.
---
This summary synthesizes the video’s key advice, dealership observations,
specific EV eligibility criteria, time-sensitive strategies for buyers, and the
broader market context around the EV tax credit’s expiration.