B.C. aims to stay a leader in the global EV race

VANCOUVER — ADAM THORN, clean growth director at the Pembina Institute, made the following statement in response to the government of British Columbia’s update to its electric vehicle sales targets under the Zero-Emission Vehicles Act.

“We are encouraged to see British Columbia maintain electric vehicle (EV) sales requirements while adjusting the sales target to 75% by 2035, down from 100%. That means 75% of passenger vehicles sold in 2035 will be zero-emission. While adjusting the 2035 targets reflects current economic and market conditions, a clear EV sales requirement remains one of the most important policies for electrification of transportation in British Columbia.

“Sales requirements give clear and predictable market signals for automakers, utilities and charging network developers, helping ensure continued investment in charging infrastructure, electricity planning and the province’s growing EV economy.

“This type of policy also helps ensure that British Columbians continue to see more EV options available at dealerships across a range of prices, giving households more choice and helping protect people from volatile gasoline and diesel prices, while also improving air quality in their communities.

“A sales requirement is particularly important because it ensures vehicle supply, infrastructure investment and industry planning move forward together.

“As the province moves forward with updating its targets, strong interim targets will be critical. These near-term milestones ensure the policy ramps up effectively and give industry and investors the confidence to continue building charging infrastructure, expand vehicle supply and create jobs across British Columbia. Without clear interim targets, investment and infrastructure slows, delaying economic and affordability benefits.

“The global transition to EVs is accelerating. The question is who benefits from that transition — the jurisdictions that plan and invest early, or those that wait and try to catch up later.

“British Columbia has been a leader in EV adoption for years, and maintaining clear sales targets and strong interim milestones will help ensure the province continues to attract investment, create jobs and lower transportation costs for people and businesses.

“The EV transition is an economic story as much as an environmental one. We look forward to seeing how the government provides clarity on other CleanBC initiatives to ensure British Columbians continue to benefit from cost-savings, jobs, energy security and healthier communities.”

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