Does discount on a car make it eligible for federal tax credit?

[Rider2]

Ok so Tesla X base is just below $80K, making it eligible for the $7500 tax credit at the time of purchase. But if you add anything to the car or change the color then it'll be over $80K and not eligible for tax credit. Question I have is, if I get some discount from Tesla for some prior issues with them, and if that makes a $85K car under $80K, do I still qualify for tax credit?

[KrisD15 · Accepted solution]

No.

The $80,000 limit is based on MSRP. 

Options added by the manufacturer could make the vehicle ineligible. 

You would need Tesla to agree to add the options for free.

According to the IRS:

"In addition, the vehicle's manufacturer suggested retail price (MSRP) can't exceed:

• $80,000 for vans, sport utility vehicles and pickup trucks
• $55,000 for other vehicles

MSRP is the retail price of the automobile suggested by the manufacturer, including manufacturer installed options, accessories and trim but excluding destination fees. It isn't necessarily the price you pay.

You can find your vehicle's weight, battery capacity, final assembly location (listed as “final assembly point”) and VIN on the vehicle's window sticker."