Understanding Electric Vehicles (EVs)
Electric vehicles (EVs) are fun to drive, cheaper and easier to maintain than gas-powered vehicles, and contribute fewer emissions into the air. With tax incentives available and a fast-growing network of charging stations, find out if owning an EV is the right choice for you.
Which EV is Right for Me?
BATTERY ELECTRIC
Fully electric cars offer the smallest environmental footprint and the biggest savings on maintenance and fuel.
PLUG-IN HYBRID
Plug-in hybrids have a rechargable electric motor and a gas-powered engine to extend range if needed.
TRADITIONAL HYBRID
Powered by an electric motor and gas-powered engine, Hybrids recharge as you drive. Tax credits and other benefits may not apply.
Benefits of Plugging In
FEDERAL TAX CREDIT
A federal tax rebate up to $5,000 is available on many EV models.
LOCAL INCENTIVES
Even more savings from your province and/or utility company.
LOW COST TO OWN
EV owners can expect to spend half as much on maintenance and repair (Consumer Reports)
FUEL UP AT HOME
Charge while you sleep, work, or at a growing number of public chargers.
QUICK AND QUIET
Enjoy fast and smooth acceleration, better handling, and a quieter ride.
BEST OF BOTH WORLDS
Plug-in hybrids provide electric range for short trips and gas-power for longer journeys.
70%
of Canadians who plan to buy a new vehicle in the next five years are likely to buy an EV.
Source: CBC
Understanding Charging
Charging times vary depending of the type of charger used.
Level 1 chargers use a standard household outlet and charge about 3-8 km of range per hour, making Level 1 a good choice for plug-in hybrid vehicles but not battery electric vehicles.
Level 2 chargers can be installed at your home by a professional electrician and charge about 16-32 km of range per hour. A good choice for any EV when charging overnight or all-day is possible.
Level 3 fast chargers are the most efficient and can be found at commercial locations. Level 3 can charge about 96-128 km of range in about 20 minutes, making it a good choice for any EV when a quick charge is needed on the go.
Charging from Home
For plug-in hybrid vehicles a standard outlet (Level 1) will be enough for overnight charging. For battery electric vehicles, a Level 2 charger will require professional installation by a licensed electrician. If you live in an apartment or condo, consider talking with the property owner about installing a charger or use a nearby public charger. Talk to our sales staff to find out more about charging from home.
Battery Care
Most batteries will last between 160,000 and 320,000 km when properly cared for. With battery technology continually advancing, that number will continue to increase. If you can keep your battery between 20% and 80% charged most days and avoid extremely hot temperatures, you can expect your maintenance to be minimal.