“Now is not the time to retreat. Provinces must reject Premier Ford’s call and instead step up to show real leadership in helping Canadians access affordable, cheaper-to-own vehicles and building a globally competitive future for our auto industry.”
A Message from the Canada-wide ctizens group, Environmental Defence
Posted March 22nd, 2026 on Niagara At Large
Ottawa– Environmental Defence is calling on Premiers Eby (British Columbia) and Legault (Quebec) to reject Premier Ford’s call to drop their Electric Vehicle Availability Standards (EVAS). British Columbia’s EV standard has been one of the most successful in North America and today, nearly one in four new vehicles sold in that province is electric — far above the national average of around 11 per cent.
The standard has also improved affordability and ensured automakers prioritize the province for supply. Quebec has seen similar success, consistently leading the country in EV adoption thanks to strong, stable EV policy.
Premier Ford’s claim that these standards make automotive markets “uncompetitive” ignores reality. EVAS policies create the certainty automakers need to invest in and deliver EVs. Weakening them would shrink Canada’s EV market, reduce consumer access, and risk car companies pushing investment to markets with strong EV standards in place.
Globally, EV sales were up over 25 per cent and 32 per cent in Europe, while Ontario remains at a paltry 6.5 per cent. By continuing to prioritize the sale of internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles over zero emission vehicles, Canada and Ontario are being isolated and left behind in the global market.
With the federal government stepping back from its EV standard earlier this year, provinces must now lead the way. Expanding EV Availability Standards across Canada would create a larger, more predictable market, attract investment, and ensure Canadians can access affordable electric vehicles no matter where they live.
Now is not the time to retreat. Provinces must reject Premier Ford’s call and instead step up to show real leadership in helping Canadians access affordable, cheaper-to-own vehicles and building a globally competitive future for our auto industry.
ABOUT ENVIRONMENTAL DEFENCE: Environmental Defence is a leading Canadian environmental advocacy organization that works with government, industry and individuals to defend clean water, a safe climate and healthy communities.
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