Plug-In
Texas

Plug-In Texas is a broad-based coalition of private and public interests dedicated to promoting all forms of electric vehicles (EVs), and other alternative fuels such as natural gas and hydrogen, in Texas. The coalition includes automakers, auto dealers, utilities, proponents of renewable energy and environmental organizations.

Our Mission

Plug-In Texas is committed to raising awareness of the benefits and viability of electric vehicles in Texas.  The coalition actively supports market initiatives and other efforts to promote all forms of EVs, including plug-in battery-electric (BEV) and plug-in hybrid (PHEV) vehicles. Plug-In Texas also serves as a clearinghouse for information among policymakers and other stakeholders who support clean fuels and share our vision of broadening the sector’s development in Texas.

More About Plug-In Texas

Benefits of Electric Vehicles

Reduced CO₂ emissions and other threats to air quality

Plug-in electric vehicles produce no tail pipe emissions and produce 54 percent less (lifetime) carbon dioxide than conventional vehicles, a percentage which could grow to 71 percent by 2050 as the U.S. power grid gets greener. Lower carbon dioxide emissions and reduced particulate matter improve air quality, which is particularly important for large urban areas, including several in Texas that must meet stringent federal air quality standards.

Enhanced energy security and energy independence

Since EVs are powered by domestically generated electricity, more EVs on U.S. roads means less dependence on foreign oil produced in unstable regions of the world. Reducing oil imports means less petro-dollar funding of activities counter to our national interests.

Affordability

On average, driving an electric vehicle is about half the cost of a gasoline car, thanks to greater performance efficiency and the lower cost of electricity. Electricity prices are also far more stable than gasoline prices, which have fluctuated a great deal, making the cost of operating an EV more predictable.  Some EV drivers can take advantage of even lower electricity prices if their utility offers special rates for off-peak charging, which helps utilities balance the load on the power grid when there is less demand for electricity.

Convenience

All-electric vehicles never require a trip to the gas station, and PHEVs seldom do, depending on the driving behavior of the owner. Most EV owners charge their car batteries overnight, eliminating the need to wait in line at the pump.

Lower maintenance costs

Aside from cheaper fuel, electric vehicles also require less maintenance to operate because there are fewer moving parts and fewer fluids to change, such as oil and transmission fluid. That means fewer tune‐ups, transmission repairs, or spark plugs changes. Regenerative braking in EVs also captures energy that would otherwise be lost, extending the life of the braking system.

More EV Benefits

Performance

Quite simply, EVs are fun to drive. Plug-in cars offer a quiet, smooth and powerful ride. An electric motor provides full torque from a standstill and completely changes the experience of getting onto a fast‐moving freeway.

Recent News & Media

TCEQ Light Duty Motor Vehicle Purchase or Lease Incentive Program Activated

Incentive Program Available in Limited Supply for Purchasers/Lessor of new Electric-drive and Natural Gas Vehicles

On May 29, 2018, the Texas Council on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) announced that the Texas Emission Reduction Plan (TERP) had begun accepting applications for the Light-Duty Motor Vehicle Purchase or Lease Incentive Program (LDPLIP). Plug-in Texas supported passage of Senate Bill 1731 in 2017 which funds the LDPLIP. The innovative TERP programs provide grants and financial incentives to eligible individuals, business and unit of government to reduce emissions for polluting vehicles.

Under LDPLIP, purchasers of certain alternative fuel vehicles are eligible for an incentive if the new vehicle is sold or leased in Texas. A total of $7,736,987 has been dedicated to the program. This sum can fund $5000 incentives for up to 1000 CNG or LPG vehicles, and $2500 incentives for up to 2000 hydrogen fuel cell or other electric drive (plug-in or plug-in hybrid) vehicles. Vehicles must be purchased though Texas licensed motor vehicle dealerships.

For more information about this innovative state program and TCEQ’s latest list of eligible vehicles click here: https://www.tceq.texas.gov/airquality/terp/ld.html

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EVs on the road in the U.S.

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Less Carbon Dioxide (lifetime)

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in Texas Rebates (2014-2015)

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Potential News Jobs by 2030