Michigan Hybrid Electric Vehicle Laws and Incentives
State Incentives
Hybrid Electric Vehicle Research and Development Tax Credit
For tax years beginning on or after January 1, 2008, and ending before January 1, 2016, a taxpayer engaged in research and development of a qualified hybrid system that has the primary purpose of propelling a motor vehicle may claim a tax credit under the Michigan Business Tax. This tax credit is equal to 3.9% of all wages, salaries, fees, bonuses, commissions, or other payments made in the taxable year on behalf of or for the benefit of employees for services performed in a qualified facility. The maximum amount of credit allowed for any one taxpayer is $2 million per tax year. (Reference Michigan Compiled Laws 208.1101-208.1601)
Alternative Fuel and Vehicle Research, Development, and Manufacturing Tax Credits
Effective January 1, 2008, taxpayers certified by the Michigan NextEnergy Authority (MNEA) may claim a nonrefundable credit for tax liability attributable to research, development, or manufacturing of qualified alternative fuel vehicles (AFVs) and renewable fuel. For the purpose of this incentive AFVs include fuel cell, electric, hybrid electric, natural gas, E85, liquefied petroleum gas, and hydrogen vehicles. Renewable fuels include biodiesel blends of at least 20%. Additionally, businesses located within the designated Alternative Energy Zone that are engaged in qualified activities may claim a credit for the taxpayer's qualified payroll amount. (Reference Michigan Compiled Laws 207.821-207.827 and 208.1429)
Alternative Fuel Development Property Tax Exemption
A tax exemption may apply to industrial property which is used for, among other purposes, high-technology activities or the creation or synthesis of biodiesel fuel. High-technology activities include those related to advanced vehicle technologies such as electric, hybrid, or alternative fuel vehicles and their components. In order to qualify for the tax exemptions, an industrial facility must obtain an exemption certificate for the property from the State Tax Commission. (Reference Michigan Compiled Laws 207.552 and 207.803)
State Laws and Regulations
Hybrid Transit Vehicle Promotion
In an effort to promote best practices for public transportation services in Michigan, the Michigan Department of Transportation is directed to coordinate with the Michigan Economic Development Corporation to promote the transition of transit bus fleets to hybrid vehicles with improved fuel economy. (Reference House Bill 5808, 2008)
Advanced Vehicle Acquisition and Alternative Fuel Use Requirement
The Department of Management and Budget (DMB) is required to continue to comply with the requirements of the federal Energy Policy Act of 1992. The DMB must include hybrid electric vehicles within the state's fleet if the vehicles are determined to be cost effective and capable of meeting the state's transportation needs. In addition, as the state's public alternative fuel fueling infrastructure continues to develop, the state's alternative fuel vehicle fleet is required to fuel with alternative fuels to the extent possible. The DMB will develop rules to encourage or require the use of diesel fuel with the highest percentage of biodiesel content available for diesel-powered vehicles in the state fleet. (Reference Executive Directive 22, 2007)
