Automakers Welcome Enhancements to the Ontario Electric Vehicle Incentive Program for Consumers

TORONTO, Feb. 10, 2016 /CNW/ - The Canadian Vehicle Manufacturers' Association (CVMA) welcomed the Government of Ontario's announcement today to enhance the Electric Vehicle Incentive Program for consumers in the province.

"With this announcement, Ontario is taking another important step to providing support for consumer adoption of plug-in electric vehicles," said Mark Nantais, CVMA President. "Plug-in electric vehicles are still an expensive and evolving technology, but one which, over time, will contribute to the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions from the transportation sector as more of these vehicles enter the on-road fleet." 

"The enhancements will assist consumers by helping to offset upfront costs compared to conventional vehicles.  Equally important are efforts to address the recharging infrastructure which includes incentives for residential recharging outlets and their installation.  These initiatives, combined with other mutually supportive public policies will enhance consumer confidence in electric vehicles and the demand for plug-in electric vehicles will grow", continued Nantais.

Like no other time in the history of the automotive industry, advance technology vehicles are being introduced at an unprecedented pace and the electrification of the automobile is a centrepiece of research and development activity for many companies. Automakers are investing hundreds of billions of dollars in new technology development to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, adding more plug-in electric vehicle model offerings and making future product announcements across a growing number of vehicle segments. There are currently 20 plug in electric vehicles models now available to consumers and this number is expected to grow in response to consumer demand.

With today's announcement Premier Wynne has established Ontario as a leader in electric vehicle market development.

About the Canadian Vehicle Manufacturers' Association (CVMA)

The Canadian Vehicle Manufacturers' Association is the industry association that has represented Canada's leading manufacturers of light and heavy duty motor vehicles for more than 85 years. Its membership includes Fiat Chrysler Automobiles (FCA) Canada Inc.; Ford Motor Company of Canada, Limited and General Motors of Canada Company. Collectively its members account for more than 60% of vehicles produced in Canada, operate 5 vehicle assembly plants as well as engine and components plants, and have over 1,300 dealerships. 115,000 jobs are directly tied to vehicle assembly in Canada. Direct and indirect jobs associated with vehicle manufacturing are estimated at over 500,000 across Canada. Please visit www.cvma.ca.

SOURCE Canadian Vehicle Manufacturers' Association (CVMA)

Mark A. Nantais, President, 416.364.9333