Building a EV is great, but you must ensure you are legal otherwise this will all be a waste of time.

1. Insurance

Most companies will offer “liability only” insurance, i.e. everyone else is covered, you will not get anything for the car if it stolen/burnt/attacked by riotous mob/etc. Not good…

I currently have Geico covering my regular cars and they were very happy to offer for $200/6months increase to extend liability coverage to the electric bus.

The main alternative is “Classic” insurance, which known as “agreed value” – the problem here is most companies (I have another VW covered by Hagerty) will not insure you for daily driver (i.e. commuting) – this leaves you in limbo… The policy you need is called “stated value” here a local office or friend is what you need. I have friend at State Farm who sorted out a plan. I have to provide receipts for the conversion work and proof that the vehicle is street legal.

2. Tags

Initially I registered the vehicle with a standard tag. Following an inspection by GEFA which allows you claim the Georgia state tax credit for converted ZEV (zero emission vehicle) you need that inspection document to take to the tag office, with the original tag and AFV registration form.

The AFV tag allow you to use the HOV lanes with only 1 passenger, very useful for the airport run.

3. Tax Credits

a. Federal tax credit

IRS Form 8910 – 10% federal tax credit for converted vehicles (up to $4000)

b. Georgia state tax credit

I live in Georgia so there are some special codes just for this state, for 2009 the applicable code entry is: GA Code 48-7-40.16 Income tax credits for low-emission vehicles – an additional 10% state tax credit for converted vehicles (up to $2500)

This does require an inspection to prove the vehicle is zero emission and that it is capable of highway speeds.

c. Filing

The federal return does not require you submit anything more than the 8910 form which can be done through e-file. I used turbotax (which is aware of both the federal and Georgia tax credits).

However the Georgia state does require send in the paper certification which cannot be e-filed, so it mail in return.