An electric vehicle (EV) is a car propelled by one or more electric motors, using energy stored in one or more rechargeable batteries.
In North Carolina, electric vehicles (EVs) are subject to specific regulations that address their operation, registration, and taxation. North Carolina General Statute § 20-4.01 defines an electric vehicle as a vehicle that operates on electricity from a battery or fuel cell. The state requires EV owners to register their vehicles with the North Carolina Division of Motor Vehicles (NCDMV) and pay an annual fee in addition to the standard registration fee, as EVs do not contribute to the state's fuel tax revenues used for road maintenance. The fee is intended to offset the loss of fuel tax revenue. Additionally, North Carolina offers various incentives for EV owners, such as a High Occupancy Vehicle (HOV) lane exemption under certain conditions and potential state tax credits or rebates. The state also encourages the development of EV infrastructure, such as charging stations, through various programs and initiatives to support the adoption of electric vehicles.