Jukka Kukkonen, a professor at the University of St. Thomas School of Engineering, recently spoke about Minnesota’s new electric vehicle (EV) rebate in an MPR interview. He explained that state and federal rebates aim to make EVs more affordable. However, he questioned whether a $2,500 tax break for a new car or a $600 one for a used car would significantly influence buying decisions.
Kukkonen suggested that while rebates might not directly affect purchases, they could spark discussions about EVs and motivate more people to test-drive them. He stressed that the real impact comes from people experiencing driving an EV, which could influence their decision.
On the topic of incentives’ effectiveness in encouraging people to switch from gas-powered cars to EVs, Kukkonen confirmed their impact. He pointed out an increase in test-drives and interest in EVs, especially in states offering such incentives.
Kukkonen’s comments follow Minnesota’s introduction of rebates for new and used EVs. This initiative is part of a larger effort to encourage the use of eco-friendly vehicles and lower carbon emissions.