The Sacramento Municipal Utility District (SMUD) is inviting community members to get behind the wheel of an electric vehicle and explore thousands of dollars in potential tax savings at its upcoming EV Ride & Drive event, taking place Saturday, August 9, from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Sunrise Mall Farmers Market. The hands-on event comes just weeks before the federal EV tax credit program ends on September 30, 2025.
Hosted in the Sunrise Mall parking lot at 6041 Sunrise Blvd., the event is free and open to the public. It offers attendees a chance to test drive multiple electric vehicle models, speak directly with EV experts, and learn how to access up to $7,500 in federal tax credits for new EV purchases or $4,000 for used vehicles. To qualify, buyers must take delivery of an eligible vehicle before the September 30 deadline.
Participants will also receive a $10 voucher to use at any booth at the Sunrise Mall Farmers Market during the event. In addition to trying out the latest EV technology, visitors can learn about home charging options through SMUD’s Charge@Home rebate program, get tips from experienced EV owners, and discover long-term savings benefits like reduced maintenance, extended brake life, and lower fuel costs. The utility estimates that local EV drivers can save up to $1,500 annually on fuel alone, especially when using its discounted midnight-to-6 a.m. charging rate, which is comparable to paying just $1 per gallon for gas.
Experts from Charge Across Town will also be available to help visitors understand tax credit eligibility and guide them through the steps of securing federal incentives.
As part of its 2030 Zero Carbon Plan, SMUD continues to lead regional efforts to promote clean transportation while offering some of California’s lowest electricity rates. More information about the utility’s clean energy initiatives is available at CleanPowerCity.org.
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