Guide to Electric Vehicles in Minnesota

Driving in Minnesota is a fantastic way to experience the breathtaking scenery that the state has to offer. From stunning lakes to massive cities, you’ll never forget a road trip around Minnesota.

When exploring the Land of 10,000 Lakes, why not try out an EV for a change?

Learn about owning an electric vehicle in Minnesota with our guide. We'll cover everything from charging infrastructure to the advantages of going green.

• How Many EVs Are There in Minnesota?
• Are There Incentives for Electric Cars in Minnesota?
• Minnesota EV charging network
  
  

How Many EVs Are There in Minnesota?

As of January 2023, Minnesota residents had registered more than 34,000 electric vehicles. That’s 0.6% of the 5.3 million registered vehicles in the state and 2% of the 1.7 million EVs in the USA. EV registrations have experienced a 47.8% year-on-year growth, with 23,000 registered the previous year in 2022.

Minnesota is one of 13 states to adopt the Zero Emission Vehicles (ZEV) program. The ZEV encourages EV manufacturers to increase sales in these regions. Minnesota is also set to introduce a Clean Car Rule in 2024 and does not require EV drivers to pay state or federal gas taxes. However, they are liable for flat fees to cover the cost of maintaining roads and other transport infrastructures.

Are There Incentives for Electric Cars in Minnesota?

Minnesota is gearing up for a greener future! In 2024, the Clean Car Rule will start for the 2025 models. This will make it easier and more appealing for drivers to choose electric vehicles. Electric vehicles have a $75 extra fee for registration, on top of the regular vehicle tax. This tax is $10 plus 1.25% of the vehicle’s value. However, the benefits definitely outweigh the cons here.

The state government is also stepping up by offering rebates on both new and used EVs, and they're even helping to offset the costs of setting up home charging stations. And for those who love zipping through toll lanes, EV drivers can enjoy a one-time $125 credit.

EV Registration, Licensing, and Fees in Minnesota

Every EV comes with a straightforward $75 registration fee, which is channeled back into enhancing the state's infrastructure. The silver lining? Since EVs don't run on traditional fuels, you won't be paying any gas taxes in Minnesota.

While some might argue that this offsets the need for additional tax credits, it's essential to remember that, just like their gasoline counterparts, all EVs must be appropriately licensed and insured in the state.

Minnesota's EV Charging Network

Minnesota has more than 1,671 EV charging points, with hotspots appearing in cities like Minneapolis, St. Paul, and Bloomington. Of these, 215 are free charging stations. The average cost for home charging an EV in Minnesota is $0.14 per KWH, which is lower than the US average. A Level 1 charger will likely cost up to $0.16 per KWH, while Level 2 chargers will cost up to $0.25 per KWH. Level 3 chargers and Tesla Superchargers are more expensive to use.

Recharge Minnesota is offering rebates for EV drivers looking to install charging stations at home. The state government is investing in more chargers to be located along public highways, using funds from an originally proposed investment from 2019.

With such an extensive network, there's no need to worry about your ride running out of juice on the road.

Let’s Go!

With its vast landscapes and vibrant cities, there's no better way to experience Minnesota than with a Hertz EV rental. 

Want to learn more about EVs? Visit our dedicated Hertz blog for all the latest news.