MONTREAL – Today, Electric Mobility Canada released the results from its latest national survey centred around EV perceptions and driving habits and EV knowledge. The findings provide empirical evidence that the majority of the negative narratives surrounding ZEVs (zero emission vehicles) are either blatantly false, exaggerated or lack context. 

“We are thrilled to share the enlightening results of our recent survey on ZEVs. The data clearly shows a growing enthusiasm and understanding among consumers about their benefits. Not only are more people choosing ZEVs over gas vehicles for their next purchase, but their interest in buying a ZEV grows as they become more informed. This shift in perception marks a significant step forward in our journey towards a more sustainable future”, stated Daniel Breton, President & CEO of Electric Mobility Canada.  

Over six thousand Canadians participated in the survey that revealed a number of interesting facts, including: 

• At the beginning of the survey, 44% of Canadians stated that they plan to purchase an EV as their next new vehicle, while 35% planned to buy a gas or diesel vehicle. 

• Most Canadians (54%) drive 10,000 km or less on average annually. EV owners are more inclined to drive between 10,000 km and 20,000 km (38%) compared to non-EV owners (27%) 

• On average, Canadians take 1-2 trips of 500 km or more per year (47%). However, EV  owners are notably more inclined to take 3 or more such trips annually (45%) compared to  non-EV owners (24%) 

• 1 in 3 Canadians note that they do not have a commute (38%), while 21% drive less than 10km to work 

• Nearly two-thirds of Canadians who currently own an EV or PHEV note that government incentives were influential in their decision to purchase their vehicle 

• 73% of EV/PHEV owners note that they feel confident in the public charging infrastructure, while only 6% don’t feel confident in public charging infrastructure 

• Most Canadians are unaware of the federal/provincial government rebates for EVs 

• Only 27% of Canadians are aware of the federal tax deduction for purchasing  an EV if they are self-employed or own a company 

• Only a small fraction of Canadians (8%) are aware that there are over 50 EVs and PHEVs available below the average price of a new vehicle in Canada ($66,400) 

At the end of the survey, respondents were asked to take the information they had been provided over the course of the survey to determine what they would choose for their next vehicle purchase: After learning about EVs, 62% of Canadians consider leaning towards purchasing one for  their next vehicle. This represents an 18 point or 40% increase between the beginning and the end of the survey, demonstrating how EV education is key. 

To support the mandate of Canada’s Net-Zero Advisory Body related to research, this project was undertaken with the financial support of the Government of Canada. Funding was provided through the Environmental Damages Funds’ Climate Action and Awareness Fund, administered by Environment and Climate Change Canada.

Electric Mobility Canada 

Electric Mobility Canada Electric Mobility Canada is the unifying and authoritative voice for the transition to electric transportation across Canada. Founded in 2006, EMC is the national industry association that enables and accelerates the transition to sustainable electric mobility through advocacy, collaboration, education, and thought leadership, with the ultimate goal of creating a cleaner, healthier, and more prosperous future for all Canadians. 

Media Contact 
Anna Schuett 
Director of Communications 
Electric Mobility Canada 
anna.schuett@emc-mec.ca 
(514) 787-2757