Canada Raising Awareness on Zero-Emission Vehicles in Ontario

Reducing emissions from the transportation sector is critical to achieving Canada’s climate targets and keeping our air clean. That’s why the Government of Canada is making sure people can be confident in purchasing and driving emissions-free electric cars in Ontario and across the country.

Today, the Honourable Jonathan Wilkinson, Minister of Natural Resources; Yasir Naqvi, MP for Ottawa Centre; and Ya’ara Saks, MP for York Centre, announced a combined investment of over $500,000 to two organizations in Ontario to support zero-emission vehicle (ZEV) awareness projects. These projects will help Canadians know about the clean options available when choosing their next vehicle.

EnviroCentre will receive a $283,500 investment to develop and launch an electric vehicle (EV) Test Drive Concierge Service that will arrange EV test drives in Ottawa and provide consumers with access to up-to-date, accurate information on EVs, available incentives, cost-analysis, comparison and environmental benefits.

Plug’n Drive will receive a $225,000 investment to create and deliver virtual webinars and in-person test drive opportunities for ride-sharing and the delivery segments of transportation to help potential EV drivers understand their total cost of ownership and provide them with the tools to help them make the switch from gas to electric.

Federal funding for both projects is provided through Natural Resources Canada’s Zero-Emission Vehicle Awareness Initiative, supporting projects aiming to increase awareness, knowledge and public confidence in ZEVs and public charging and refuelling infrastructure.

Since 2015, Canada has invested a historic $1 billion to make EVs more affordable and chargers more accessible for Canadians. These investments are supporting the establishment of a coast-to-coast network of fast chargers in local areas where Canadians live, work and play, while federal rebates of up to $5,000 are helping more Canadians make the switch to an EV.

These investments are yet another step in reaching Canada’s target of ensuring all passenger vehicles sold in Canada are zero-emission by 2035. And just like investments in everything from clean technology to nature protection, today’s announcement is part of achieving Canada’s ambitious climate change goals that build a cleaner, healthier and affordable future for all Canadians.