B.C. had the highest uptake rates in North America for zero emission vehicles (ZEVs) in 2020, according to an annual ZEV update.
ZEV sales represented 9.4 per cent of all light duty vehicles sold on the province last year and there are now over 54,000 electric vehicle (EVs) registered in B.C.
“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,” said Bruce Ralston, minister of energy, mines and low carbon innovation.
B.C. has one of the largest public charging networks in Canada — according to the report, there are over 2,500 public charging stations in the province.
“People in communities across British Columbia are increasingly choosing electric vehicles to reduce air pollution, and for a better driving experience and lower operating costs,” said George Heyman, minister of environment and climate change strategy.
“This transition is happening because EVs and charging stations are becoming more affordable and available through CleanBC. 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.”
B.C. was the first jurisdiction in the world to legislate a 100 per cent ZEV sales requirement, the report said. The Zero Emission Vehicle Act, passed in 2019, requires automakers to meet ZEV sales targets, reaching 10 per cent of new light-duty vehicle sales by 2025, 30 per cent by 2030 and 100 per cent by 2040.
The annual ZEV update tracks B.C.’s progress on its zero-emission vehicle targets.The 2020 update is the first report required under the ZEV Act.
