Electric Vehicles
According to CAA's survey of 16,000 Electric Vehicle (EV) drivers, EV owners said their EV was more affordable than their gas vehicle. There are many ways EVs can be more affordable than a gas-powered vehicle.
Most EVs take less than five years to break even. With gas-powered vehicles, we're in the habit of separating purchase price from operating cost. But to objectively compare the prices of gas-powered vehicles with those of EVs, we have to look at both purchase price AND operating cost.
There are three ways you can save with an EV in the long run:
The average Canadian spends close to $3,000 on gas every year. A BEV doesn't require gas to roll, it requires electricity. The cost to fuel the average BEV over the course of a year is only a few hundred dollars.
EV owners don't just save money on gas, they also spend less time at the shop, since EVs require less frequent and less complicated maintenance than conventional gas vehicles. The average BEV owner saves about 40% to 50% in maintenance compared to a gas-powered vehicle.
Some insurance companies, like CAA, offer incentives and discounts for people who have electric or hybrid vehicles.
Compare the operating and ownership costs of thousands of vehicles on the road in Canada, including EVs.
Go to CAA Car Cost WebsiteIn Canada, most of our electricity is generated by low-emitting hydro and nuclear sources. That means EV ownership can help reduce your personal vehicle greenhouse gas emissions by more than 60%. Not to mention, this can result in savings of nearly $3,000/year on fuel.
While initial manufacturing emissions are higher for EVs, once on the road, EV emissions are so low that within 2 years gas-powered vehicles catch up and surpass the emissions from an EV.
According to CAA's survey of 16,000 EV drivers, the vast majority (92%) of drivers purchased their EV new, while 7% leased their EV. As with any vehicle purchase, the choice to buy used, new or lease is an individual decision based on preference and financial situation.
A used EV may be for you if you are looking to save money on your initial purchase. Shopping for a used electric vehicle is a lot like shopping for any other used vehicle but remember that this is a new market – supply will continue to grow as more hit the road. CAA's survey of 16,000 EV drivers revealed that 17% of buyers acquired their EV used.
Plug-in America, a U.S. organization specializing in electric mobility, performed a detailed analysis of the electrical components of used vehicles and came up with a simple conclusion: if the battery is in good shape, buying a slightly used electric car is like buying a new car for less money, taking depreciation into account. The first wave of EVs had a shorter range, making them not suitable for all uses. But they might be a good solution for city dwellers, or suburban families who are looking to buy a second vehicle.
Public and private incentive programs make it easier to afford an electric vehicle. According to CAA's survey of 16,000 EV drivers, the majority of EV drivers who received a government incentive cited them (73%) as having high influence on their purchase decision.
The Incentives for Zero-Emission Vehicles (iZEV) Program funds have been fully committed. Consequently, the iZEV Program has now officially paused.
Visit the Government of Canada website to learn more
Visit Charge Hub to learn moreGovernment of British Columbia's Go Electric program is based on Individual – household Income requirements. Based on your income you can get:
The Roulez vert financial assistance program is offered by the Gouvernement du Québec to encourage the acquisition of electric vehicles and the installation of charging stations.
The Roulez vert program will be temporarily suspended from February 1, 2025, to March 31, 2025.
Learn more about incentives available in QuebecDrivers can save $2,500 on the purchase or lease of a 100% all-electric vehicle and $1,500 for a plug-in hybrid.
Learn more about incentives available in NLNova Scotians may be eligible for rebates of $3,000 per new vehicle, $2,000 for used vehicles and $500 for e-bikes.
Learn more about incentives on EV AssistGovernment rebates are available directly through authorized EV dealerships when you buy your EV. Ask your dealer for details.
Provincial rebates are available to New Brunswickers who buy or lease a qualifying new vehicle, or buy a used electric vehicle, at a licensed dealership in New Brunswick. Those who buy an eligible vehicle can also receive a rebate on the purchase and installation of a home charging station.
As of March 1, 2023 the total PEI Electric Vehicle and Charging incentive will be $5,750 for EVs and $3,250 for PHEVs.
Islanders who buy a new, fully electric vehicle may be eligible for up to $10,750 off the purchase price with the Federal Government incentive of $5,000 and the PEI Universal EV and Charging Incentive of $5,750 combined.
Learn more on the Prince Edward Island websiteThe Manitoba Electric Vehicle Rebate Program provides rebates of $4,000 on the purchase of a new eligible electric vehicle, $1,000 to $4,000 on leasing an eligible electric vehicle, and $2,500 on the purchase of pre-owned eligible electric vehicles.
Purchasers of eligible EVs, including those who purchased them between August 1, 2023 and July 1, 2024, will be able to apply online for the rebate through a streamlined process on the Manitoba Public Insurance website.
Learn more about incentives available in Manitoba