Expected Prices of Electric Cars Increasing In California

[fordfocuselectric]

People in California who are interested in purchasing electric cars, such as the 2012 Ford Focus Electric, might be thinking twice, as the state is running out of money and can no longer fulfill the promised $5,000 rebates the state was giving to people who purchased all-electric vehicles. However, the state is now considering how it can provide $2,500 rebates to those who already purchased cars and were on the wait list. This has not affected the $7,500 federal tax credit offered to spur sales of electric vehicles, including the 2012 Ford Focus Electric, but not the Chevrolet Volt, which is classified as a plug-in hybrid until emmisions-control upgrades are performed next year. California Ford Focus Electric Forum participants might not be surprised that rebates are shrinking, as it was a generous incentive compared to other states.

Of course, monetary incentives are helpful to increase sales, but if the electric-car industry wants to be a viable option, then it has to reach the point where it is competitive with traditional internal-combustion-engine cars. Other possible incentives, such as carpool-lane permits, could also increase sales, especially in traffic-congested areas, such as California.

As seems apparent on Ford Focus Electric forums, early adopters of the electric car are willing to pay a premium to be involved in the cutting edge movement. The demand for electric cars is such, that consumers are likely to absorb some price increases and shrinking rebates.

 

[klaus]

Luckily I'm not buying a Ford Focus Electric in California, although I'm sure this is just a sign that people buying the Ford Focus Electric anywhere in the country!