Battle Continues Over Oklahoma Tax Credits for Electric Cars

By Kirsten McIntyre, NEWS 9

OKLAHOMA CITY -- The Oklahoma Supreme Court decided the judge in a case of a battle over Oklahoma tax credits for electric cars did not have jurisdiction when it ruled in favor of Ada Electric Cars.

A state law passed 13 years ago gave a tax credit of up to 50 percent off the price of an electric vehicle. That law combined with thousands of dollars in federal tax credits made some electrics vehicles virtually free. But back in September, the Oklahoma Tax Commission ruled vehicles that are similar to golf carts or go carts are excluded. Ada Electric Cars sued, and the battle has been fierce ever since.

"The owners of Ada Electric Cars are firmly committed to making sure that everything, what's right is right, and they are true men of their word. They stand behind it," Chris Bastien, Ada Electric Cars sales manager said.

With Monday's decision by the Oklahoma Supreme Court, the tax commission's ruling stands once again. Now, just because a vehicle is "street legal" doesn't necessarily mean it qualifies for the tax credit.

"We do realize for taxpayers this has been somewhat confusing, so we want to make sure they have the ability to file for that credit and also protest if there's somebody that doesn't apply to what they've purchased," said Paula Ross, Oklahoma Tax Commission communications director.

As for potential buyers, the ruling doesn't seem to be scaring them off.

"I like what I saw, and if I can take advantage of the tax credits, I'm going to look real hard at it," said Jim Kelm, potential electric vehicle buyer.

Ada Electric Cars have accused the Oklahoma Tax Commission of playing dirty through this court process and said it's willing to take the case all the way to the U.S. Supreme Court if necessary.

The issue could become complicated again if Ada Electric Cars continues its legal action, as they've indicated they will.

Find out if your electric car qualifies for tax credit.

More on News9.com:
- Electric Car Dealer Sues Over Tax Commission's Ruling
- Electric Car Dealers, Customers Upset Over Ruling on Oklahoma Tax Credit
- Electric Cars Giving Electric Charge to Economy
- Oklahoma Company to Sell, Assemble New Electric Cars