If you’re in Colorado and thinking about driving an electric vehicle (EV), there are some rules, laws, and benefits you should understand. Don’t worry—this guide will explain everything you should know before becoming an EV driver in Colorado. From saving money to installing EV chargers, Colorado is making it easier and better for you to own an EV. Let’s walk through some key electric vehicle laws in the state.

What Is the Electric Vehicle Law in Colorado?

Colorado has set up special regulations, to help people use electric vehicles. This is because EVs are better for the environment than gas-powered cars and trucks. Here are the key laws:

1. Electric Vehicles Don’t Need an Emissions Test

Unlike gas cars that get tested for pollution, EVs don’t need this test because they don’t pollute the air during driving.

2. Low-Speed Electric Vehicles (LSEVs)

Colorado allows small EVs called “LSEVs” to drive on roads with speed limits of 35 mph or less. These cars are electric, have at least three wheels, and are quiet.

3. Weight Exemptions for EVs

Some electric or alternative fuel-powered cars can carry a little extra weight on the roads (2,000 pounds more than regular limits). This makes it easier to transport things without breaking the rules.

Incentives for EV Owners in Colorado

Owning an electric vehicle can save you money! Colorado has set up a few programs to reward people who make the switch to EVs:

1. Tax Credit for Buying an EV

If you buy or lease an electric car, Colorado might give you a “tax credit.” Think of it as money you don’t have to pay in taxes.

• • • For example, if your EV costs less than $35,000 and you buy it between January 1, 2024, and January 1, 2029, you can get $2,500 extra in tax credits!

 

2. No State Sales Tax on EV Chargers

If you buy special equipment to charge your EV, like an EV charger, you don’t have to pay Colorado’s sales tax on it. Charging equipment can be expensive, so this helps save money.

3. Property Tax Exemption

If you own an EV charger (even at home), you don’t have to pay property tax on it until January 1, 2030. That’s a great deal for people installing charging stations.

What Does “Right to Charge” in Colorado Mean?

The “Right to Charge Colorado” means people have the right to install charging stations where they live, including apartments and condos. If you live in a place where multiple people park, like an apartment complex, the law helps you work with your landlord to set up a charger. This makes owning an EV much easier for everyone!

Colorado EV Charger Rebate

Colorado also offers a rebate, or money back, for installing EV chargers at your home or business. The rebate depends on the type of charger, but this program helps reduce the cost of charging station installation. This makes it easier for people to move to EVs without worrying about how to charge them.

Installing EV Charging Stations

You might wonder, “How do I get a charging station at my house?” Installing an EV charging station lets you power up your car faster at home instead of driving to public chargers. Colorado not only has easy permitting processes but also encourages more homes and businesses to install chargers by giving them rebates and cutting costs.

Goals for EVs in Colorado

Colorado has big plans for EVs and the environment! Here’s the state’s goal:

• By 2030, there should be 940,000 electric vehicles driving around Colorado.

• They also want at least 30% of new trucks and vans to be zero-emission by 2030.

To meet these goals, Colorado is expanding the EV charging network, so you’ll see more charging stations popping up across the state.

Special Parking Rules for EVs

If you drive an EV, look out for special parking spaces with EV chargers! Only EVs can park in these spaces. If a gas or diesel car parks there, they may be fined. This ensures that EV drivers have a spot to charge their cars when they’re out and about.

Fun Fact About EV Charging on Highways

Have you noticed those blue and white signs saying “EV Charging Station”? The Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT) has specific signs to guide EV drivers to charging stations. This makes finding a place to charge on the highways or in cities super easy.

Why Does Colorado Encourage EVs?

Colorado promotes electric vehicles to reduce pollution and keep the state beautiful! Gas cars release harmful gases into the air, but EVs don’t do that when driving. By switching to EVs, people help protect the environment and improve air quality.

Where Can You Learn More About Electric Vehicle Laws?

If you want to read more about the law or incentives, check out these resources:

• Colorado Department of Revenue – Electric Vehicles

• Colorado General Assembly

• Alternative Fuels Data Center (AFDC)

• Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT)

Wrapping It Up

Colorado is doing a great job making electric vehicles easier to own, use, and charge. With laws like the “Right to Charge” and programs like the Colorado EV charger rebate, getting an electric vehicle and charging it at home is becoming simpler. Plus, if you’re interested in saving money, the tax credit and no sales tax on EV chargers make a big difference.

By promoting cleaner vehicles and expanding EV charging station installation, Colorado is building a cleaner, greener future. If you’re thinking about owning an EV, now is a great time to make the jump!