CARFAX: EV and Hybrid Sales Surge as Federal Tax Credit Nears End

Core Insights - Overall car sales have remained steady this summer, but demand for electric vehicles (EVs) and hybrids has accelerated significantly as consumers rush to purchase before federal tax credits expire [1][2][3] Group 1: Sales Trends - EVs and hybrids are currently selling approximately 30% faster than at the beginning of summer, indicating a notable shift in consumer behavior [2] - Despite the increase in EV and hybrid sales, overall vehicle sales have remained mostly stable, which is a departure from previous trends where these sales typically aligned [2] Group 2: Tax Incentives - The Inflation Reduction Act provided incentives for EVs and some plug-in hybrids, including a $7,500 tax credit for new models and $4,000 for used ones, which are set to expire on September 30 [3] - The urgency created by the impending expiration of these credits has led to a spike in EV and hybrid sales [3] Group 3: Consumer Guidance - CARFAX has provided tips for navigating the used EV and hybrid market, emphasizing the importance of vehicle history reports, budgeting, test drives, and pre-purchase inspections [4][8]