Maryland Hybrid Electric Vehicle Laws and Incentives
State Incentives
Hybrid Electric Vehicle (HEV) and Electric Vehicle (EV) Tax Credit
A tax credit is allowed against the excise tax imposed for the purchase of qualified HEVs and EVs. For qualified EVs, the tax credit may not exceed $2,000. For qualified HEVs, the credit may not exceed: a) $250 if the vehicle battery provides at least 5% but less than 10% of maximum power available; b) $500 if the vehicle battery provides at least 10% but less than 20% of maximum power available; c) $750 if the vehicle battery provides at least 20% but less than 30% of maximum power available; d) $1,000 if the vehicle battery provides at least 30% of maximum power available. Additional tax credits of $125 to $500 are available for HEVs equipped with regenerative braking systems that meet certain requirements, depending on the amount of energy created from breaking. A qualified EV must meet the definition set forth in the Internal Revenue Code. A qualified HEV must meet the current vehicle exhaust standard set under the federal Tier 2 program for passenger vehicles. (Reference Maryland Statutes, Transportation Code 13-815)
Hybrid Electric Vehicle (HEV) Exemption from Vehicle Testing Requirements
Qualified HEVs and zero-emission vehicles are exempt from certain mandatory motor vehicle emissions and inspection testing requirements for the first three years after the vehicle is originally registered in the state, if the vehicle obtains a rating from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency of at least 50 miles per gallon during city fuel economy tests. A qualified HEV must meet the current vehicle exhaust standard set under the federal Tier 2 program gasoline-powered passenger vehicles, and can draw propulsion energy from the following on-board sources of stored energy: 1) gasoline or diesel fuel; and 2) a rechargeable energy storage system. This exemption expires September 30, 2012. (Reference Maryland Statutes, Transportation Code 23-206.3 through 206.4)
