The federal tax credits for purchasing or leasing new and used electric vehicles are scheduled to expire on September 30, 2025. (Adobe Stock)
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By Shanteya Hudson
Aug 7, 2025
Local officials and clean-energy businesses in Georgia are making the case for continued investment in electric vehicles.
They shared the message at an event in Savannah hosted by the Electrification Coalition, part of a national “Freedom to Drive” summer campaign. Speakers said communities in Georgia are already seeing benefits – and warned that cutting back federal EV programs could put job growth, cost savings and clean energy progress at risk.
Bryan County Commission chairman Carter Infinger said Hyundai’s new MetaPlant is a prime example of how EV investments can create jobs and reshape local economies.
“Hyundai in itself has 8,500 jobs at the site, and it’s a $7.6 billion investment into our community,” he said. “When you add the suppliers, it’s about $10 billion and about 15,616 jobs.”
Infinger said most workers at the Hyundai facility are Georgia residents, and the ripple effects benefit nearby counties including Bulloch, Chatham, Effingham and Laurens. He said he believes EV production is driving long-term transformation and providing well-paid jobs in the region.
Joshua Corning, sustainability project manager for Savannah, said the city is working to electrify its fleet and expand charging infrastructure. He added that the efforts are part of a broader push to meet clean energy goals and boost people’s quality of life.
“Electric vehicles represent more than just a new technology,” he said. “We view them as an incredible tool that can help us create a cleaner and healthier community, with quieter streets and lower transportation costs, immediately improving the quality of life for our residents.”
And Joe Sikes, communications specialist for the Canoochee Electric Membership Cooperative, said members of their utility, which serves 10 counties, are seeing firsthand how electric vehicles can stretch a family’s budget. For those who spend hundreds each month on gas, he said, making the switch can bring serious savings.
“Our members, many of whom live in a smaller community, can tap into the cost savings that EVs offer,” he said. “That means lower fuel costs, less maintenance and more reliable service for local families.”
Sikes said the co-op is also helping power electric school buses and supporting EV charging and energy grids for military bases. As Congress considers more action to roll back clean energy policy, Georgia EV advocates are urging federal officials to keep the EV momentum moving forward.