- Ford expects a spike in EV demand ahead of October 1’s tax credit deadline.
- Trump is scrapping the tax credit as part of his One Big Beautiful Bill Act.
- The Mustang Mach-E qualifies for tax credit only when leased, not purchased.
With major changes to federal EV incentives on the horizon, EV buyers in the US may want to act fast. In just over two months, the long-standing federal EV tax credit is set to expire on September 30, a shift that will make many new models $7,500 more expensive. For shoppers hoping to lock in current savings, the clock is ticking, and Ford believes demand will ramp up before the deadline.
Read: Ford Swaps Employee Pricing For A Deal That Might Actually Save You More
In a recent letter sent to dealers, Ford wrote that “demand is expected to increase as the deadline approaches for eligible vehicles.” It urged dealerships to ensure they submit Time of Sale reports before October 1st for shoppers who choose to have the tax credit applied immediately at checkout.
Mach-E Buyers Still Have Options
Not all of Ford’s EVs are eligible for the entire tax credit. For example, the Mustang Mach-E isn’t eligible for the credit when purchased as it’s built in Mexico. But, it is eligible for a $7,500 credit if leased. Importantly, it is also currently available with Ford’s so-called Zero, Zero, Zero promo, meaning now is probably going to be the best time to buy a Mach-E for a long time.
Replacing its previous employee pricing-for-all offer, Ford’s new Zero, Zero, Zero promotion includes zero percent financing for 48 months, no down payment, and no payments for the first 90 days. According to CarsDirect, the Ford Mustang Mach-E is currently available for zero percent financing for 60 months, making the deal even sweeter.
Used EVs Also Affected by Incentive Shift
It’s not just new car buyers who will feel the impact. While the full $7,500 tax credit applies only to new EVs, used electric vehicles can currently qualify for credits of up to $4,000. With living costs still climbing, these incentives have helped make EVs more accessible to a broader range of buyers. Once the credit is removed, that affordability could take a hit.
