Great Lakes Givers is on a mission to electrify Michigan, and we invite you to be a part of this transformative journey. If you own a non-Tesla electric vehicle, from a Nissan Leaf to a Ford Mustang Mach-E, your donation can make a significant difference in supporting local communities and advancing renewable transportation. Many Michiganders are eager to switch to electric, and your contribution helps broaden access to sustainable options.
Electric vehicles play a crucial role in reducing carbon emissions and fostering cleaner air for everyone. Whether your car has seen better days or is still in prime condition, we welcome donations of various models, including the Chevy Bolt EV, VW ID.4, and Hyundai Ioniq 5. Your vehicle's story adds value to our mission: transforming what may seem like an old car into a catalyst for change in the Michigan community.
What we see most often
- 2011-2017 Leaf with <50% SOH battery
- 2017-2022 Bolt EV with recall adjustments
- 2021 VW ID.4 as owner upgrades
- 2022 Mustang Mach-E for a newer model
- Older Ioniq 5 needing a new home
- 2018-2021 Niro EV in good condition
- 2021 Polestar 2 as owner switches to a Tesla
- 2019 BMW i3 with minor cosmetic damage
- Used Rivian R1T or R1S in good working order
- 2023 Lucid Air with low mileage
⚡HV battery health
The health of your electric vehicle's high-voltage (HV) battery is critical to its value and usability. It is strongly recommended to assess the state-of-health (SOH) using an OBD-II scanner or the manufacturer's app before donation. Older Nissan Leaf models (2011-2017) often showcase high failure rates and may have batteries with SOH under 50%, significantly reducing their value. Additionally, some models may require costly battery replacements, especially if they are past their warranty. Knowing your EV's battery condition helps inform both the donor and the recipient about what to expect.
EV-specific pickup logistics
When you donate your electric vehicle, our team will arrange for a tow truck equipped with flatbed capabilities to safely transport your vehicle. We’ll ensure the HV battery is properly disconnected, prioritizing safety during the process. It's important to include any essential charging cables, which should be provided at the time of pickup. If you prefer, you can have your vehicle pre-inspected at a Tesla Service Center or another dealer to confirm its working condition. We accept non-running EVs, but keep in mind that condition may affect the overall donation value.
What drives donation value
The value of your donated electric vehicle is influenced by several factors. Battery state-of-health (SOH) is paramount; a higher SOH typically commands a better value. Additionally, the odometer reading, body condition, and any advanced features such as Autopilot or full self-driving capabilities on Tesla models can elevate the vehicle's worth. For newer EVs, appraisal values can exceed $5,000 depending on these metrics, making the donation more impactful. Before finalizing your donation, we recommend getting an appraisal to understand your vehicle's potential worth.
Michigan EV context
Michigan is increasingly becoming a hub for electric vehicle adoption, and your donation can help us stay ahead in this green transition. Be aware that if you are donating your EV, there may be incentive clawback rules to consider, as well as state registration fees or ad-valorem taxes which can affect ownership transition. The presence of local EV-share programs also boosts demand, meaning your donated vehicle could help someone make the switch to electric, all while contributing to a healthier environment in our great state.