Canada is making significant investments in the electric vehicle (EV) sector, with over $25 million CAD (approximately $18 million USD) being allocated to 33 projects aimed at expanding EV charging infrastructure, decarbonizing freight transportation, and advancing innovative technologies for medium- and heavy-duty trucks.
The announcement was made by Claude Guay, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Energy and Natural Resources, who emphasized that the funding will help make zero-emission vehicles more accessible to Canadian families and businesses, while also driving innovation within the automotive industry.
Natural Resources Canada (NRCan) will be contributing over $9.7 million to 23 projects through the Zero Emission Vehicle Infrastructure Program (ZEVIP). This funding will support the installation of more than 850 EV chargers across the country, including in workplaces, multi-unit residential buildings, public spaces, and along highways.
Minister of Energy and Natural Resources Tim Hodgson highlighted the benefits that these initiatives will bring to Quebec EV owners and the local industry, stating that Canada is taking bold steps to become an energy superpower. Guay added that the investment will accelerate the transition to zero-emission vehicles and empower breakthrough Canadian technologies that enhance electric vehicle performance, safety, and reliability.
In addition to the funding for EV charging infrastructure, $8 million will be directed towards six projects under the Energy Innovation Program (EIP), focusing on advancing the medium- and heavy-duty vehicle sectors, addressing operational challenges for electric fleets, and developing Canadian intellectual property. Furthermore, $7.9 million from the Green Freight Program (GFP) will support four projects aimed at modernizing fleets in the transportation, construction, and public works industries, reducing fuel costs, and lowering greenhouse gas emissions.
This announcement comes at a time when Canada has yet to reintroduce a federal EV rebate program, which was suspended earlier this year. However, the federal government recently approved over $43 million in disputed iZEV subsidies claimed by Tesla, signaling continued support for the EV industry in Canada. These investments and initiatives are crucial steps towards achieving a more sustainable and efficient transportation sector in the country.