Who owns an EV in Canada? 3 provinces dominate EV registrations
The shift towards electric vehicles (EVs) in Canada is gaining momentum as more and more Canadians are making the switch from gas-powered cars. The federal government has emphasized the importance of transitioning to EVs in order to reach climate goals, reduce air pollution, and save money in the long run. However, despite the growing popularity of EVs, there are certain trends emerging in terms of who is making the switch and where they are located.
According to recent data, the majority of EV sales in Canada are concentrated in British Columbia, Ontario, and Quebec, with more than 92% of new EVs registered in these provinces. This can be attributed to the presence of rebates and sales targets in B.C. and Quebec, which have incentivized dealers to stock and sell more EVs. Additionally, these provinces have set ambitious targets for the percentage of zero-emission vehicles to be sold in the coming years, further driving the adoption of EVs.
In terms of demographics, a survey of Canadian EV users found that a majority of them are over the age of 55, live in single-family homes, and own their own homes. This demographic tends to reside in suburban areas, where it is easier to install home charging stations and where residents typically have longer commutes. Suburban dwellers also often have multiple vehicles, allowing them to keep a gas car for longer trips if needed.
On the other hand, urban residents face challenges with accessing home charging in apartment or condo buildings, while rural residents may have limited access to public charging infrastructure. Despite these challenges, efforts are being made to expand charging networks in both urban and rural areas to make EV adoption more feasible for all Canadians.
There is also a gender disparity in EV adoption, with men currently leading the way in terms of ownership. However, efforts are being made to address concerns that women have regarding safety and affordability of EVs. With more charging stations being added to high-traffic areas and costs of EVs decreasing over time, the barriers to adoption are gradually being removed.
Overall, while the transition to EVs is still in its early stages in Canada, there is a growing awareness and interest in electric vehicles among Canadians. With continued support from governments, improvements in infrastructure, and increased public education, the shift towards EVs is expected to accelerate in the coming years.
