Ontario Premier Doug Ford has urged Quebec and British Columbia to reconsider their electric vehicle sales targets, arguing that these goals are undermining Canada’s competitiveness. Both provinces had previously adjusted their targets for all new vehicle sales to be zero emissions by 2035. Ford, in letters to the premiers, emphasized the importance of Ontario’s auto sector, which employs nearly 100,000 people and is affected by policy changes in the United States. He expressed concern that maintaining electric vehicle mandates only in certain Canadian regions could lead to a fragmented and less competitive market, potentially driving investments, jobs, and production to the U.S.
Ford reiterated his position during a separate news conference, highlighting the need for a unified “Team Canada” approach and questioning the feasibility of stringent emissions rules while competitors may not have similar regulations. Quebec now aims for 90% of new vehicle sales to be hybrid or electric by 2035, while British Columbia has revised its mandate and plans to introduce new targets through legislation. B.C. Premier David Eby responded to Ford’s letter, assuring a review of their electric vehicle mandate to align with current circumstances and emphasizing the role of electric vehicles in offsetting high gas prices.
The federal government had previously shifted focus from EV sales mandates to stricter emissions standards for the auto sector earlier this year. This move comes as various provinces navigate the evolving landscape of electric vehicle policies amid global market dynamics.