The Clean Cars 4 All (CC4A) program in California offers substantial incentives for low-income residents to transition to cleaner vehicles. This program, funded by the California Air Resources Board (CARB), aims to improve air quality and reduce greenhouse gas emissions by encouraging the replacement of older, polluting cars with newer, more fuel-efficient options.
Cars 4 All Incentive Levels
CC4A provides varying incentive amounts based on income eligibility and vehicle type. For the fiscal year 2023-24, the following incentives are available:
For residents with incomes less than or equal to 300% of the Federal Poverty Level:
- Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicles (PHEVs): $9,500 (plus up to $2,000 for charging equipment or a pre-loaded charge card). Eligible vehicles must be 8 years old or newer (model year 2017 or newer for 2024).
- Zero-Emission Vehicles (ZEVs): $10,000 (plus up to $2,000 for charging equipment or a pre-loaded charge card). ZEVs include battery electric vehicles and fuel cell electric vehicles. Eligible vehicles must be 8 years old or newer (model year 2017 or newer for 2024).
- Mobility Options: $7,500 face value. This option provides alternatives to car ownership, such as public transit passes.
- Zero-Emission Motorcycles (ZEMs): $4,500.
For residents with incomes less than or equal to 300% of the Federal Poverty Level living in Disadvantaged Communities:
- PHEVs: $11,500 (plus up to $2,000 for charging equipment). Eligible vehicles must be 8 years old or newer (model year 2017 or newer for 2024).
- ZEVs: $12,000 (plus up to $2,000 for charging equipment). Eligible vehicles must be 8 years old or newer (model year 2017 or newer for 2024).
- Mobility Options: $7,500 face value.
- ZEMs: $6,500.
Additionally, participants can receive up to $5,000 for vehicle adaptive equipment.
Cars 4 All Eligibility and Administration
To qualify for CC4A, applicants must meet specific requirements:
- Residency: Be a California resident.
- Income: Have a household income at or below 300% of the Federal Poverty Level.
- Vehicle Ownership: Own a functional vehicle to retire or scrap, regardless of registration status.
- Prior Incentive: Not have received a previous CC4A incentive.
CC4A is administered by five air districts: South Coast AQMD, San Joaquin Valley APCD, Bay Area AQMD, Sacramento Metropolitan AQMD, and San Diego County APCD. Residents in these areas apply through their respective district.
Those outside these districts can apply through the statewide Driving Clean Assistance Program (DCAP), managed by the Community Housing Development Corporation (CHDC). DCAP serves tribal, rural, and low-income communities.
Cars 4 All Program Expansion: Driving Clean Assistance Program
CARB’s partnership with CHDC expands CC4A’s reach through DCAP. This statewide program offers:
- Wider Eligibility: Incentives are available with or without retiring an older vehicle.
- Financial Assistance: Access to low-interest loans for vehicle purchases.
- Comprehensive Support: Vouchers for mobility options and charging incentives.
- Equity Focus: A needs-based model prioritizes underserved communities.
DCAP ensures that all eligible Californians, regardless of location, can access resources to transition to cleaner transportation.
Conclusion
The Cars 4 All program offers significant financial assistance for low-income Californians seeking cleaner transportation. With various incentive levels, program options, and statewide accessibility, CC4A contributes to a healthier environment and improved transportation options for all. For more detailed information and application instructions, visit the CARB website or the website of your local air district.
