The models of US automakers dominate a list of electric vehicles that qualify for US "clean vehicle" tax credits under a new set of rules.

The revised measure puts Japanese and many other non-US car manufacturers at a disadvantage in one of the world's biggest auto markets.

Officials in Washington announced the list of qualifying models on Monday. Most are produced by General Motors, Ford and Tesla.

The credit system of up to 7,500 dollars was created last year and came into effect on Tuesday. It applies to purchases of EVs that undergo final assembly in North America.
Eligible models must also meet other requirements related to the production of their batteries and procurement of key minerals.

Japanese makers expect to face tougher competition under the new rules. Nissan Motor's Leaf was qualified for a tax incentive until Tuesday.

A Nissan official says the Leaf is assembled in its Tennessee plant. But the company has yet to prove that the model meets the conditions on battery components and minerals.

The official says Nissan hopes the vehicle will be eligible for at least some of the tax incentives.