California Center for Sustainable Energy

Why purchase an Alternative Fuel Vehicle ( AFV)?

AFV's are good for the environment. These vehicles produce fewer emissions than traditional cars, reduce our dependence on petroleum-based fuels and may slow global climate change.

Who is eligible to participate?

Fueling Alternatives is a state-wide program available to qualified individuals, businesses, non-profit organizations, federal, state, regional or local government agencies.

What vehicles qualify for rebates?

There are three general categories of AFVs eligible for rebates; Zero Emission Vehicles ( ZEVs), Other Alternative Fuel Vehicles ( AFVs) and Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicles ( PHEVs).  ZEVs include full-function battery electric and fuel cell electric vehicles, City ZEVs (CEVs), Neighborhood ZEVs ( NEVs), and Zero Emission Motorcycles.  For placement on the eligible vehicle list, manufacturers must meet the criteria as detailed in the section 3.2.2 of the  Fueling Alternatives Guidelines (89.05 kB).   

View the most current list of eligible vehicles by make, model and rebate amount.

How do I apply for a rebate?

1. Download a Fueling Alternatives rebate application and instructions
   
   •  01 Fueling Alternatives Requirements Form (196.31 kB).
   •  02 A Fueling Alternatives Application Form (181.27 kB)
   •  02 B Fueling Alternatives Multiple Vehicles Form (289.6 kB)
     
     
2. Return a signed copy of the application along with other required documentation via certified mail or priority mail with delivery confirmation to the following address:
   California Center for Sustainable Energy
   
   Attn: Fueling Alternatives Rebate
   8690 Balboa Avenue, Suite 100
   San Diego, CA 92123

Tax Information:
CARB will not be issuing Information Returns Form 1099 unless advised to do so by the Internal Revenue Service.

How do I know when vehicles are added to the Qualifying Vehicles list?

The list of eligible vehicles will be edited regularly as more vehicles are added to the program. To receive updates and breaking news on the Fueling Alternatives program please join CARB's zero emission vehicle (ZEV) listserve.

Fueling Alternatives is a limited program. Funding will be insufficient to incentivize all eligible vehicle purchasers over the duration of the program.  Incentives will be provided on a first-come-first-served basis.