BC car dealers criticize governments pause on EV rebate

The provincial government's decision to suspend its electric vehicle (EV) rebate program has sparked significant criticism from the auto industry. Experts caution that this suspension could drastically reduce demand for zero-emission vehicles and potentially increase prices for consumers. The New Car Dealers Association of BC has pointed out that the timing is especially poor, with looming U. S. tariffs and stringent EV sales mandates already straining dealerships.

According to association president Blair Qualey, the rebate has been instrumental in helping thousands of British Columbians switch from gas to electric vehicles since 2011. The association is now advocating for the province to ease its EV targets and the steep penalties linked to them while the rebate remains on hold. Under the updated zero-emission vehicle targets, carmakers must meet 26% EV sales by 2026, with penalties for non-compliance rising from $5,000 to $20,000 starting with the 2026 model year. The association argues that a pause on penalties is necessary to provide stakeholders the opportunity to assess the situation. The outcome of this conflict may have lasting implications for the province's EV market and environmental goals.