Here are the B.C. neighbourhoods with the highest percentage of electric vehicle owners
The analysis of ICBC insurance policies in British Columbia reveals that over half of all electric vehicles in the province are Teslas, with Metro Vancouver, particularly the V6J postal code, showing the highest adoption rates. In 2022, the V6J postal code, covering Kitsilano and Shaughnessy, had the most Teslas registered, with over 10% of vehicles being EVs. The dominance of Teslas is attributed to EV rebate programs and the popularity of the Model 3. Despite high EV adoption in urban areas, challenges such as affordability and the need for more charging infrastructure persist, especially in rural regions.
More Canadians are buying EVs, but is there enough infrastructure to support the industry?
Canada sees a rise in electric vehicle (EV) registrations, reaching 3% or 789,000 vehicles in 2022. However, experts express concerns about achieving the 2035 goal for all light-duty car sales to be zero-emission due to challenges in EV repair, insufficient charging infrastructure distribution, and limitations in cold weather reliability. Issues include the complexity of EV high-voltage systems, specialised tools and safety equipment requirements, and the need for more widespread EV charging ports.
Canada's support for EV battery plants to cost 16% more than announced, watchdog finds
Canada’s support for three major EV battery manufacturing factories will cost 16% more than initially stated, totaling C$43.6 billion ($31.75 billion) over 10 years, according to the Parliamentary Budget Officer. The projects involve Volkswagen, Stellantis with LG Energy Solution, and Sweden’s Northvolt. Federal Innovation Minister Francois-Philippe Champagne noted that the report doesn’t fully capture the broader economic impacts on supply chains and emphasises that over two-thirds of the government’s support is conditional and payable over a decade.
Electric-vehicle chargers distributed unequally in Canada, environment audit finds
An audit reveals that Canada’s electric vehicle (EV) charger infrastructure program is unevenly distributed, with nearly 90% of funded ports concentrated in Ontario, Quebec, and British Columbia. The audit highlights the lack of set targets to address the greatest needs, particularly in lower-income communities and rural areas. While Canada is on track to meet its goal of 33,500 charging ports by 2026, concerns are raised about the lack of monitoring for station performance after installation.
Canada's EV charging strategy reaches fork in the road
Advocacy groups and officials are urging Canada to prioritize EV charging infrastructure in single-family homes, emphasizing that over 80% of charging occurs in this segment. Critics argue that the current focus on populous public areas may not rapidly drive EV adoption. Challenges include addressing the vast geography, upgrading electrical systems in older homes, and ensuring equitable access in remote and low-income communities. Despite increased per capita spending on EV chargers compared to the U.S., there are calls for a more comprehensive approach and expanded support for homeowners.
