Over the last few years, the spotlight in the global auto industry has been increasingly focusing on electric vehicles (EVs). This shift is now eminent in Canada, where increasing number of citizens and businesses have been embracing the benefits of electric transportation. This article covers the expansion of the EV market in Canada, the driving forces behind it, and what we can expect in the future.
The Current State of Electric Vehicles in Canada
As of 2020, Canada had over 140,000 electric vehicles on its roads, showcasing a significant rise compared to just a few years back. Provinces like Quebec and British Columbia are leading with the highest EV adoption rate primarily due to their incentive programs.
Government Support and Regulatory Pressure
The Canadian government’s commitment to reducing greenhouse gas emissions has led to several initiatives to promote electric vehicles. This includes federal purchase incentives under the iZEV program, and inherent policies like zero-emission vehicle (ZEV) regulation, which put pressure on automakers to produce more electric vehicles.
The Infrastructure and Future Outlook
One of the vital determinants of EV adoption is the charging infrastructure. As of 2021, there are over 5,000 public charging stations across the country, which is continuously growing. By 2030, Canada plans to have all new light-duty vehicles sold to be zero-emission vehicles.
With increasing government and public support, increased adoption of green policies by businesses, and technological advancements, the future of electric vehicles in Canada is undoubtedly bright.