Canada to develop national strategy for introduction of ZEVs by 2018

The Government of Canada is planning to develop a national strategy to roll-out zero-emission vehicles (ZEVs) by 2018 through partnering with provincial and territorial authorities, as well as with various industry stakeholders.   

The new strategy will be developed under the Pan-Canadian Framework on Clean Growth and Climate Change, where federal, provincial and territorial governments will be working together with industry and stakeholders for developing a Canada-wide ZEV strategy. 

The government anticipates that by introducing ZEVs on the Canadian roads, it could bring cut greenhouse gas emission levels, as these vehicles use battery electric, plug-in hybrid and hydrogen fuel. 

Currently, the transportation sector accounts for nearly 24% of Canada’s emissions, and the majority of these emissions are released by cars and trucks. 

To take this initiative to the next level, the government has also established a national advisory group that will provide assistance in addressing issues related to the deployment of these technologies. This will span five areas, comprising vehicle supply, cost and benefits of ownership, infrastructure readiness, public awareness, and clean growth and clean jobs. 

The advisory group consists of representatives from various sectors such as government, industry, consumer and non-government organisations and academia.

Canada Minister of Transport Marc Garneau said: “We understand Canadians’ concerns about the environment and are developing an aggressive strategy to tackle climate change by taking actions to reduce greenhouse gases and air pollution.

“By putting more zero-emission vehicles on the road, we are investing in the future of cleaner transportation for all Canadians.” 

To encourage and promote use of ZEVs, the government has provided C$62.5m ($46.4m) in last year’s budget and an additional C$120m ($89.1m) was allocated through this year’s budget for Natural Resources Canada for deploying new infrastructure to charge electric vehicles.

Other initiatives include the creation of alternative refuelling stations such as natural gas and hydrogen, as well as to support technology demonstration projects.