Washington state may subsidize EV trucks with up to $120,000 per vehicle

Photo bySteve Wilson

In a bid to revolutionize the transportation sector and steer away from reliance on fossil fuels, Washington State has proposed an ambitious voucher program for electric heavy-duty trucks, potentially costing taxpayers up to $120,000 per vehicle. Modelled after California's successful Hybrid and Zero-Emission Truck and Bus Voucher Incentive Project, this initiative aims to not only emulate its success but also entice electric vehicle (EV) manufacturers currently favouring California to consider Washington as an attractive market.

The program's scope is broad, encompassing both light and heavy-duty vehicles weighing 8,500 lbs. or more, including on-road and off-road vehicles like large forklifts, terminal tractors, and commercial harbour crafts. Tom Brotherton, representing CALSTART, a non-profit dedicated to clean transportation, emphasized to legislators during a presentation to the state Joint Transportation Committee that this program would provide direct subsidies akin to a voucher system, streamlining the funding process for each subsidized vehicle.

One of the key advantages highlighted by Brotherton is the predictability offered by the voucher system. It allows participating private companies to anticipate funding, eliminating the need to purchase a vehicle upfront and then apply for a subsidy, which could delay their electrification plans. Depending on the vehicle type, subsidies range from $7,500 for minimum weight requirement vehicles to a substantial $120,000 for Class 8 or heavy-duty trucks.

However, this initiative is not solely about subsidizing vehicle purchases. Brotherton also stressed the necessity for Washington to build the infrastructure essential for the operation of EV trucks within the state. While the program incentivizes the installation of chargers, this benefit is exclusively available to entities that have procured an EV truck.

Despite the program's intentions, concerns emerged during the committee meeting. Representative Jeff Wilson voiced apprehension about the potential creation of a "false market" wherein subsidized EV trucks might be resold. Brotherton clarified that entities benefiting from the subsidy must retain the EV for a minimum of three years and register it in Washington State, aiming to curb this apprehension.

Yet, skepticism remained. Wilson questioned the oversight mechanism for ensuring compliance, raising doubts about effective monitoring. Senator Curtis King echoed concerns, particularly focusing on heavy-duty truck batteries and their performance in cold weather, suggesting additional considerations for vehicle maintenance in regions like eastern Washington.

The Washington Electric Vehicle Council has also proposed a similar incentive program for regular EVs through the state Department of Commerce, suggesting a $5,000 incentive for such vehicles as part of its broader transportation electrification strategy.

This multifaceted proposal highlights Washington State's determination to lead the transition towards cleaner transportation while facing the challenges of infrastructure development, subsidy management, and environmental adaptability, underscoring the complexities inherent in this paradigm shift toward electric vehicles.