Nikola has received approval from the California Air Resources Board (CARB) to participate in its Hybrid and Zero-Emission Truck and Bus Voucher Incentive Project (HVIP) program. The approval will allow customers of Nikola’s Tre hydrogen fuel cell electric vehicle to receive point-of-sale incentives starting at $240,000 and going up to $288,000 per truck in 2023. Additionally, customers will be eligible for a $40,000 federal clean commercial vehicle tax credit.
California’s HVIP is a unique program aimed at promoting the use of hybrid and zero-emission commercial vehicles and reducing their cost of ownership. The program operates on a first-come, first-served basis and does not require the retirement of existing diesel vehicles. With the introduction of the Tre battery-electric vehicle, Tre FCEV, and infrastructure solutions, Nikola is providing innovative solutions to fleets that aim to fight pollution and climate change.
See also: Nikola received CARB Executive Order for Tre hydrogen fuel cell electric vehicle
It is estimated that Class 8 heavy-duty trucks may receive up to $457 million in funding through the HVIP program in 2023, with potentially an additional $45 million per year to be provided by the Ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach, which may also be distributed through HVIP.
According to Nikola President and CEO, Michael Lohscheller, “The inclusion of the Nikola Tre FCEV in California’s HVIP program is a very exciting development as we continue introducing innovative zero-emission truck technology options in our priority sales market and distinguish ourselves as the only OEM offering both battery-electric and FCEVs this year. The combined incentives available to customer fleets through the HVIP program and the Inflation Reduction Act are critical for driving a competitive total cost of ownership and accelerating market adoption of the Tre FCEV, which will be powered by the hydrogen fuel supply and infrastructure implemented through HYLA, Nikola’s recently launched hydrogen energy brand, and with service provided by our national dealer network. We look forward to delivering the Nikola Tre FCEVs to customers later this year.”
In the near future, Nikola will partner with potential fleet customers in California to showcase its Tre FCEV. Interested parties are invited to visit Nikola dealerships to learn more about the vehicle and its advanced technology, such as its driver-centric design. The company is now accepting orders and HVIP voucher requests for the Tre FCEV.
See also: Nikola Tre electric truck approved for $185,000 zero-emission incentive in New York State
Boasting a range of 500 miles, the Nikola Tre FCEV is one of the longest-range zero-emission Class 8 trucks available on the market, while still being lighter than comparable BEVs. This vehicle is suitable for various transportation needs, such as drayage, intermodal, truckload, less than truckload, and specialized hauling.
Nikola is dedicated to making the transition from diesel to zero-emissions technologies as seamless as possible. The company aims to reduce the need for extensive electrical infrastructure planning with its expected 20-minute fueling time at HYLA stations and mobile fueling options.
In January 2022, the Nikola Tre BEV, with a range of 330 miles, received HVIP certification in California. This vehicle is eligible for incentives, including a $120,000 per truck incentive for California buyers, and $150,000 for drayage fleets. The Tre BEV also qualifies for other incentives across the U.S., including the $40,000 federal clean commercial vehicle tax credit. Serial production of the Tre BEV began in March 2022, and it is now available for purchase and delivery.