The Truth Staff
The federal electric vehicle (EV) tax credits (part of the Biden administration’s 2022 Inflation Reduction Act) – which offered up to $7,500 for new EVs and$4,000 for used EVs expired for all purchases and deliveries completed after September 30, 2025. They are no longer available for current vehicle purchases
With gas prices averaging almost $4.00 a gallon, local county and city Officials joined clean transportation advocates in calling for greater federal investment in clean vehicles to promote the freedom to drive.
Last Tuesday, August 4, the officials and advocates gathered at One Government Center to spotlight how clean cars, electric vehicles
(EVs) and hybrids can strengthen Ohio’s economy, national security
and energy independence. The event was part of the national Freedom to Drive
summer event series focused on clean transportation and how it can deliver cost savings, jobs and cleaner air to communities across the country. The speakers emphasized the need for federal officials to support funding for future investments and highlighted how continued federal investments in clean transportation can reduce consumer costs, boost security and improve the public health
Toledo area residents are eager for relief from this unnecessary financial burden, the speakers also pointed out.
More fuel efficient cars coupled with hybrid and electric vehicles
represent a strategic leap towards a more affordable transportation while
bolstering American energy independence and resilience.
Speakers highlighted how Lucas County residents need federal elected officials to stand up for freedom to drive by supporting the country’s clean transportation system and the industries that support it, including how such a system is beneficial for Ohio residents.
“Clean cars, hybrids and electric vehicles (EVs) save consumers money,
lower transportation costs and are crucial to Ohio’s economic
development,” said Lucas County Commissioner Lisa Sobecki. “The Trump war continues to escalate and that is hurting our Lucas County residents.”
“We must continue to move Toledo toward clean transportation and advanced
energy infrastructures,” said Toledo City Councilmember Nick Komives. “As
it is crucial to minimizing pollution and protecting residents from asthma
and respiratory risks.”
Komives said that manufacturing electric vehicles results in “good paying jobs for skilled workers right here in Toledo.”
“Sustainabliity and EVs go hand and hand,” said Benjamin Pushka,
sustainability coordinator for Board of Lucas County Commissioners. “By
supporting clean transportation we are also giving resources that help
Lucas communities thrive. That’s why we need our federal elected officials
to support greater investments in clean transportation to ensure a more
affordable future.”
The City of Toledo has been converting to electric for its fleet of vehicles over the last several years. So far this year the city has purchased 15 electric vehicles for that fleet, said Komives.