When Lisa Arellanes, Southern California Edison principal manager of eMobility, bought her first electric vehicle, she wasn’t chasing a trend. She talked to people who already owned EVs and was struck by how excited they were. After a few test drives, she understood why.
The moment that really won her over: sitting in the carpool lane on the 605 northbound, cruising at full speed and hearing every note of her music crystal clear.
“There was no engine noise at all,” said Arellanes. “I was shocked by how quiet it was inside the cabin. It made me fall in love with the car.”
Once she committed to making the switch, her decision wasn’t centered around the newest model, rather affordability — opting for pre-owned vehicles.
“Buying used made the cost more realistic from the start,” said Arellanes. “Then having extra rebates and tax credits I could apply for — that's real money back in my pocket.”
SCE offers a $1,000 pre-owned EV rebate that Arellanes took advantage of, helping make her car even more affordable. She also discovered a tax credit from the federal government — up to $4,000 for pre-owned EVs and up to $7,500 for new EVs.
“The federal tax credit is a really great resource for people who qualify,” Arellanes said. “It’s expiring soon though, so I’ve been telling everyone I know, if they are planning on purchasing an EV to do it before then.”
A quiet cabin and smooth ride sealed the deal for Arellanes, who now enjoys the perks of EV commuting across Southern California.
The tax credit program was started in 2022 as part of the Inflation Reduction Act and is based on income eligibility — $300,000 or less for joint filers or $150,000 or less for single filers. For used cars, the income limits are lower: $150,000 for joint filers and $75,000 for single filers.
Arellanes has now owned two EVs, all pre-owned, and she has no plans to go back. Beyond the savings, there’s a sense of purpose. Driving an EV allows her to reduce emissions in the community she calls home.
“I feel good knowing I’m not spreading all those unhealthy emissions into the air when I’m driving across the Southland,” she said. “I get to enjoy taking a drive while doing my part to create a cleaner future.”
For more information on SCE’s clean energy programs, visit sce.com/cleanenergy.
