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[Stevie]

When I bought my Zero DS last year rebates were not a factor in my decision. I'm getting ready to do my federal and state taxes and it doesn't look like buying an electric bike is of any advantage.

Federal: I'm retired and don't have squat for reportable income or tax liability. My retirement is funded with money I already paid taxes on. Since the federal incentive is in the form of a tax credit you don't benefit from a credit if you don't owe tax.

State of Vermont: Same as above.

Green Mountain Power (my electric company): They offer a dirt cheap installation of a J-1772 charging station but I really have no need as I can plug into 110 and be ready to go in the morning. I have a charge tank but would have to run 220 from my cellar out to the garage. They also offer a $600 cash rebate to new EV owners. I emailed them and got a call today.  Explained I had a Zero MC. This is all new to them. They had never considered a MC and called back twice more with questions. Evidently it created quite a stir in their offices. Ultimately the decision was made to not allow me the rebate. It's only for passenger cars. Zeros get zero.

I suspect that their attitude is that a MC is primarily used for fun while a car is for transportation. Never mind that the number of miles I drive my truck was cut in half. I ride every day except winter.

In any event, if my take on the Fed and state taxes thing is wrong please correct me.

Steve

[Richard230]

If the current tax code had an electric motorcycle rebate component, you could file a tax return and get a rebate check from the Treasury Department.  I was able to file an amended return in July for my purchase of my 2018 Zero S in 2017 and received an $1800 check from the government.  Unfortunately, that rebate died this year. 

[Stevie]

Thanks, Richard. There may be something there for me. My income/tax situation was the same in 2017. However, I put a down payment of $2000 on my DS in Oct. 2017 and paid the balance when I took delivery in Feb. 2018.

[Richard230]

Thanks, Richard. There may be something there for me. My income/tax situation was the same in 2017. However, I put a down payment of $2000 on my DS in Oct. 2017 and paid the balance when I took delivery in Feb. 2018.

Good luck. Maybe you will be able to get it pass the IRS, but my recollection is that the bike has to be bought and put into service before the end of 2017.