Federal call for new EV charging will help Canadians go electric, but more action needed from industry and all levels of government
The Canadian government has requested proposals to expand the EV charging network as part of its Zero-emission Vehicle Infrastructure Program. With EVs making up 12% of new car sales, Canada currently has over 27,000 public charging ports but needs more for those without home charging access. Clean Energy Canada calls for a comprehensive national plan involving federal, provincial, municipal, and industry stakeholders to ensure reliable and widespread EV charging. The government aims to install 33,500 chargers by 2026, which will help Canadians save on fuel costs and reduce emissions.
Canada to Consider Blocking Factories in Pushback on Chinese EVs
Canada is considering tariffs and investment restrictions to limit Chinese-made EVs in the market, citing unfair subsidies and standards. Consultations with stakeholders will run until August 1. Measures may include excluding Chinese EVs from federal incentives and addressing data privacy issues. This aligns with similar actions by the US and EU.
Umicore Delays $2 Billion Ontario Plant as EV Demand Slows
Umicore SA has delayed its $2 billion plan to build an EV battery materials plant in Ontario due to lower-than-expected consumer demand. This follows similar delays by Ford and General Motors in the region. Despite setbacks, Canadian Finance Minister Chrystia Freeland insists the government’s EV and battery supply chain strategy remains intact. The Ontario plant, initially set to open by 2026, aimed to supply materials for up to 800,000 EVs annually.
Electric vehicle rebates: What’s available in each province and territory?
Canada offers various EV purchase and lease rebates to encourage zero-emission vehicle (ZEV) adoption, with federal and provincial incentives. The federal government targets 20% ZEV sales by 2026, 60% by 2030, and 100% by 2035. Current rebates include up to $5,000 federally and varying amounts provincially, such as up to $7,000 in Quebec and $4,000 in British Columbia. The goal is to boost EV adoption, which was 12.5% in early 2024.
