The city has applied with the state for a $959,414 VW mitigation grant.
Officials said the funds would be used for acquiring electric vehicles and also docking equipment.
There would be a required city match of $434,000.
Maura Sullivan, city chief operating officer, said TDEC asked the city to apply and gave just a 10-day application window.
The City Council is to vote on whether or not to give its approval to the process.