When leasing an EV, dealerships are not legally required to pass tax credit savings to lessees, and practices vary widely. However, some manufacturers and dealers explicitly mention applying the credit to lease terms:
- BMW reduces lease prices by deducting the tax credit from the vehicle cost upfront, lowering monthly payments.
- Audi and Volkswagen advertise an “EV Lease Bonus” tied to the tax credit, while Dodge labels it as a “Hybrid/Electric Federal Tax Credit.”
- Mercedes-Benz and Lexus use terms like “Lease Bonus Cash” or “lease cash,” which may include the credit but are less transparent.
Dealers might describe the credit as a “pass-through,” “capitalized cost reduction,” or “45W credit”, but they are not obligated to apply it. Always confirm whether the advertised discount includes the federal tax credit and negotiate terms directly with the dealer. The credit’s availability hinges on the lessor (dealer) claiming it, so savings depend entirely on their willingness to share the benefit.
Key takeaway: While manufacturer programs (e.g., BMW, Audi) often pass savings, individual dealer policies ultimately determine whether you benefit from the $7,500 credit. Explicitly ask dealerships if they apply the federal EV tax credit to leases.
Original article by NenPower, If reposted, please credit the source: https://nenpower.com/blog/are-there-specific-dealerships-known-for-passing-on-tax-credit-savings-to-lessees/
