Global Automakers Say Clean Energy Vehicle Program Supports Advanced Technology Vehicles

TORONTO, March 23, 2015 /CNW/ - The Global Automakers of Canada (GAC) acknowledged today's announcement by the Government of B.C. to invest $10.6 million in a multi-faceted approach to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from road transportation in B.C.  

"The decision to renew the Clean Energy Vehicle (CEV) program in British Columbia will undoubtedly spur consumer demand for advanced vehicle technologies that reduce greenhouse gas and smog-causing exhaust emissions," said David Adams, President of the Global Automakers of Canada. 

"It is important to us that the government has looked more holistically at a suite of low emission and zero emission technologies - which is the same approach the auto industry is taking to meet the stringent federal greenhouse gas emissions regulations in place now through 2025 that are aligned on a North American basis," added Adams. "Ideally, we believe that it is appropriate for governments to be technology-neutral in their approach to GHG emissions reductions. We encourage all levels of government to work together and collaboratively with industry, to establish reasonable GHG emissions reduction targets for our sector post-2025 that continues to respect that vehicles and the fuels that power them are an integrated system. In that way, individual manufacturers are able to best meet future regulations while creating a true win/win for consumers and the environment."

The Clean Energy Vehicle program resides with the Ministry of Energy and Mines and funds are allocated for both consumer incentives and the fueling infrastructure, with additional funds being allocated for consumer education and awareness. "The reality is manufacturers are producing these advanced technology vehicles but for there to be any environmental benefit consumers have to be aware of them, purchase them, and have confidence that the fuelling and charging infrastructure is  available to support their purchase. We're happy that today's announcement assists with all of these issues," said Adams. 

The GAC member companies are leaders in the development of advanced technology vehicles from advanced internal combustion and clean diesel engine technologies, to hybrid, plug-in hybrid, battery electric and fuel cell propulsion technologies. More than half of the vehicles eligible for the CEV program are produced by GAC member companies.

SOURCE Global Automakers of Canada

David C. Adams, President, Global Automakers of Canada, [phone], [email protected]