Importing an electric car from the USA in 2026: 0% excise and the full cost

Demand for electric cars in Georgia is rising fast — and the main reason is not just fuel economy. Unlike petrol and hybrid cars, an electric car pays no excise, because excise is tied to engine displacement and age, and an EV has no combustion engine. That is where the biggest saving happens.

The short answer: what you actually pay

The 2026 tax structure for an EV looks like this:

• Excise: $0 — fully exempt
• VAT (18%): applied to the car value plus shipping
• Customs clearance: standard procedure
• Registration and plates: ~$70

A petrol car can carry $650–$1,900 in excise depending on year and engine — on an EV that cost disappears entirely. For an exact total use the calculator or see the customs page.

The most commonly imported EVs

Tesla Model 3 / Model Y

The most in-demand — long range per charge, available parts. Full pricing analysis on the Tesla Model 3 page.

Nissan Leaf

The budget EV. Often $7,000–$12,000 on Copart and IAAI. Ideal for the city.

Chevrolet Bolt EV

Good range at a low price. The main rival to the Leaf in the budget segment.

Real example: Nissan Leaf 2020

• Auction price: $9,500
• Fees + US transport: $780 + $520
• Ocean shipping to Poti: $1,400
• Excise: $0
• VAT (18%) + clearance: ~$2,100
• Registration: $70
• Total: ~$14,370

A petrol sedan in the same budget often ends up $800–$1,500 more once excise is added.

What to check

• Battery health (SOH): the battery is the most expensive part of an EV — check its state of health before buying.
• Charging standard: US models use CCS1, compatible with most fast chargers in Georgia.
• Cold-weather range: real winter range is 15–25% below the rated figure.

Before bidding on a damaged EV, read the Copart guide and contact us for a consultation.

Timeline

Importing an EV usually takes 35–50 days — the same as a petrol car.

Tax rules can change — for an exact, up-to-date total use the calculator or contact us.