British Columbia has seen a record-setting uptake of electric vehicles (EVs) on the road, currently boasting more than 54,000 light-duty registered across the province.
The numbers were released on Tuesday as part of B.C.’s 2020 annual zer0-emission vehicle (ZEV) update.
“With the highest reported uptake rates of EVs in North America, B.C. is quickly becoming a leader in the EV industry,” said Bruce Ralston, Minister of Energy, Mines and Low Carbon Innovation. “Despite challenges from the pandemic, our EV sales remained steady in 2020, making it clear that British Columbians are committed to meeting our CleanBC goals and our transition to a clean energy future.”
The zero-emissions vehicle report suggests that British Columbians are also adopting EV technology for less traditional vehicles, such as motorcycles and cargo e-bikes, while developing other possibilities like electric industrial work trucks.
George Heyman, Minister of Environment and Climate Change Strategy, points to environment-conscious consumers in the province who are looking to reduce air pollution, but also outlines that the transition is happening as EVs and charging stations are becoming more affordable and available.
“By investing in cleaner, more affordable transportation options of all kinds, we’re reducing climate pollution and supporting new opportunities for people in a stronger economy,” notes Heyman.
Through the CleanBC Go Electric programs, the government is investing in expansions of EV charging networks, while also supporting vehicle rebates and electric vehicle education programs.
Outside of British Columbia, the United States is also setting ambitious new goals around EV manufacturing, deployment and charging, which could lead to even greater access to EV infrastructure around the continent for EV drivers.
According to the government, as of December 2020, 54,469 EVs were on the road in B.C. leading to an estimated 216,000 tonnes in emission reductions per year.
The government also estimates in the latest report that B.C. drivers are saving $1,800 every year on fuel costs.
As far as charging accessibility goes, the provincial government says that B.C. has one of the largest networks with over 2,500 public charging stations by the end of 2020.
The Zero-Emission Vehicles Act requires automakers to meet increasing annual levels of ZEV sales to reach 10% of new light-duty vehicle sales by 2025, 30% by 2030 and 100% by 2040. In 2020, electric vehicle sales made up 9.4 per cent of all new light-duty vehicle sales in B.C.
To view the 2020 annual ZEV update, click here.
Graham Cox
