Federal budget cuts could mean EV tax credit loss for Ohio drivers

Terri Dee

Supporters of electric vehicle ownership say there are a number of advantages to owning one.

Studies show EVs can convert 85% to 90% of their energy into forward movement, a majority of the electricity used in an EV is American-made and EVs can be charged at home, just like a cellphone.

Despite the benefits and their popularity, Rep. Mike Johnson, R-La., the Speaker of the House, has proposed removing a $7,500 tax credit for EV owners as part of President Donald Trump's goal to restructure the country's budget.

John Higham, board member of the Electric Vehicle Association, wondered if it will cause potential buyers to back away.

"Do I think if this $7,500 tax credit suddenly disappeared, it's not going to kill the electric vehicle?" Higham asked. "It might slow the acceleration of the adoption of the electric vehicle, but it's certainly not going to reverse the trend."

Trump's budget proposal could pass between the end of May and the end of July. Higham acknowledged the tax credit is a strong motivator for people to buy or lease an electric car and he expects a 10% to 12% growth rate for purchases. Higham admitted the number could drop to between 8% and 9% if the tax credit disappears.

As of December 2023, the Department of Energy reported slightly more than 51,000 Ohioans own an electric vehicle.

The Republican controlled House has proposed legislation to extend the tax credit until the end of 2025 and analysts said the largest EV automaker, Tesla, owned by Trump associate Elon Musk, would be affected the most if the tax credit ends. Higham noted the fallout of repealing the tax credit could break down along party lines.

"That economic engine that is in those red districts, where there's new battery manufacturing put in, new automotive manufacturing put in, those are the voters that are going to feel it the most, are in those red districts," Higham observed. "There are Republican congressmen who are saying, 'Not quite so fast.' It is harder to repeal than I think most people realize."

In 2024, it is estimated the federal government spent about $2 billion in advance point-of-sale EV tax credit payments. Buzz about the tax removal may push consumers to buy EVs sooner than later to take advantage of the credit before it disappears.