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California EV event pairs free test drives with help applying for up to $16,000 in rebates

Participating information tables will stamp visitors' "Ride & Drive" passports.

A woman holds car keys in front of a vehicle with a promotional message about reducing gas usage.

Photo Credit: Empower Gateway

On Nov. 14, Southeast Los Angeles residents looking to switch to an electric vehicle could get help lowering the cost.

Empower Gateway will help residents apply for up to $16,000 in EV incentives at its Nov. 14 "Ride & Drive" event, which will also include free test drives, according to L.A. TACO.

Here's what to know

The event will take place at the Hub Cities Consortium parking lot at 4354 Tweedy Boulevard, South Gate. 

Each test drive will last 10 minutes, and participating dealers will bring a variety of EVs for attendees to try.

Southern California Edison assistance could provide up to $4,000 toward potential savings. California's Clean Cars 4 All offers up to $12,000 with an eligible trade-in.

Gateway Cities residents can turn to specialists to determine which assistance is available under income limits and other program requirements.

More broadly, rooftop solar can help Southern California households lower their electricity costs: Palmetto offers a $0-down option in the region with an average 40% reduction in electric bills, though individual savings vary.

More background

Free help with energy incentives is available across the Gateway Cities region through Empower Gateway. 

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The Gateway Cities Council of Governments and nonprofit Valley Clean Air Now partnered for the program, L.A. TACO reported.

The partnership works to make cleaner transportation and household energy improvements more affordable by connecting residents with assistance. It focuses on communities that need substantial financial help and community resources while facing heavy pollution burdens.

Beyond car shopping, the South Gate event will give attendees a chance to learn about energy-saving home improvements and rebates for qualifying upgrades.

What can be done?

Applications for EV assistance or qualifying home upgrades can begin during a one-on-one meeting with an Empower Gateway rebate specialist. 

Gateway Cities residents can check their eligibility and review the steps needed to get assistance.

For Southern Californians considering rooftop solar, Palmetto's $0-down offer can reduce upfront financial hurdles. In households with sufficiently high electricity costs, that can translate into thousands of dollars in annual savings.

Pupusas, kids' meals, and bowls will be available from the VCHOS truck in the Hub Cities Consortium parking lot at the event. 

Participating information tables will stamp visitors' "Ride & Drive" passports, which they can then redeem for a food ticket.

Where can I learn more?

Drivers elsewhere in California can also try EVs and get help navigating rebates. These stories cover local test-drive events, financial incentives, and eligibility limits.

• In Santa Barbara, EV test drives help drivers weigh costs, charging, and range.

• California's Central Coast offers expanded rebates and free help for EVs and energy upgrades.

• San Joaquin Valley buyers could receive up to $3,000 from remaining EV rebate funds.

Get TCD's free newsletters for easy tips, smart advice, and a chance to earn $5,000 toward home upgrades. To see more stories like this one, change your Google preferences here.

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