Use of electric vehicles up, but still limited

The sale of electric vehicles (EVs) has gone up 79 per cent over the past year, but that still amount to only 8-9,000 of them in Canada. World Wildlife Fund Canada is promoting the use of EVs as a way to reduce greenhouse gas emissions which contribute to climate change. It’s estimated 30 per cent of Canada’s total emissions come from transportation.

“Certainly well over 80 per cent of Canadians understand the science behind climate change. They know that the transportation sector is a big cause of greenhouse gas emissions and they’re intrigued and interested by the idea of electric vehicles,” says David Miller, president and CEO of World Wildlife Fund Canada.

ListenCanadians still have questions

Canadians are increasingly getting used to the idea of electric vehicles, according to a report issued by the group. 42 per cent of people surveyed think EVs are a viable (or nearly viable) alternative to conventional gas cars and that is up from 28 per cent in 2012.

The problem is they still have questions: Are there enough charging stations? How far can they drive before having to recharge? How much do the vehicles cost?

How to boost EV sales

While they are cheaper to run and maintain, EVs still cost more than gas-powered cars in Canada. WWF Canada says that governments should offer incentives to help bring the cost down. It also recommends governments ensure there are more charging stations, that fleets use EVs and that dealerships make sure they have models that people can try.

EVs are “really fun to drive,” says Miller and he has posted videos of himself that illustrate that. He emphasizes that using EVs is a choice people can make today.

‘A great experience’

“If they do make that choice, they’re doing the right thing for the environment and the right thing for their local neighborhood. And they’ll feel good about it, plus they’ll have a great experience.”