
As federal tax incentives for electric vehicles expire in the United States, automakers are implementing diverse strategies to maintain sales momentum. From dramatic price cuts to manufacturer-backed rebates, companies are working to keep EVs attractive to consumers despite the loss of the $7,500 federal tax credit. Meanwhile, international markets show contrasting approaches to EV adoption incentives.
In a bold move, Hyundai has significantly reduced prices across its IONIQ 5 lineup, with the 2026 model now starting at just $35,000, representing a price cut of nearly $10,000 compared to the previous year [1]. This aggressive pricing strategy comes as a direct response to the expiration of federal tax incentives, with every trim level seeing major price reductions while adding new features [2].
Several other manufacturers are taking similar actions to maintain market competitiveness. BMW has launched substantial rebates across its entire EV lineup, offering $7,500 on new electric vehicles and $5,000 on select plug-in hybrids [3]. Stellantis brands, including Jeep, Dodge, and Chrysler, will continue to offer incentives equivalent to the expired federal tax credit [4].
The impact of these changes varies across manufacturers. Ford is preparing for a potential 50% drop in EV sales following the loss of the federal tax credit [5]. Meanwhile, Honda has found success with its electric SUV through aggressive discounting [6].
The situation in the United States contrasts sharply with other markets, particularly Italy, where government incentives make some EVs extremely affordable [7]. Additionally, Chinese EV manufacturers are positioning themselves to enter the US market with competitive pricing as their primary strategy [8].
- The 2026 Hyundai IONIQ 5 gets a big price cut and now starts at just $35,000
- Hyundai Slashes 2026 Ioniq 5 Prices by Nearly $10K
- New BMW EV Buyers Get $7,500 Rebate, $5,000 on Select Plug-In Hybrid
- Jeep, Dodge, Chrysler vehicles will still qualify for the $7,500 EV credit past the deadline
- Ford Braces for 50% EV Sales Drop After Loss of $7,500 Tax Credit
- Honda’s electric SUV is a hit, thanks to steep discounts
- As U.S. Ends Rebates, Italians Can Pick Up an EV For "Less Than a Bicycle"
- China’s EV Giants Are Coming for America—And Price Is Their Secret Weapon