Government subventions for electric cars in Canada

January 18, 2016

Electric cars are significantly more expensive than conventional cars. With gasoline getting cheaper and cheaper, a big incentive for going electric is disappearing. However, if you reside in Quebec, Ontario or BC, you may be eligible for a government rebate of up to $13000.


Electric Drive Program in Quebec

The drive electric program of the Quebec government offers a rebate of up to $8000 on the purchase or lease of an electric car and $600 for the installation of a charging station.

In order to receive the rebate for vehicles, the applicant has to be a Quebec resident and the car be purchased in Canada. Further on, rebates are given only for cars on the list of eligible vehicles and the car has to remain registered in Quebec for at least one year.

Electric Cars eligible for a rebate in Quebec [as of January 2016]

Tesla Model S
Source: Norsk Elbilforening via Flickr (Creative Commons 2.0 License)


Charging station rebate in Quebec

To be eligible, a charging station has to be powered by a 240 Volt supply and be installed by a licensed electrician. Only one station per vehicle is admissible.

The rebate is split up in two parts: $350 for the purchase and $250 for the installation.


Electric vehicle incentive program in Ontario

The electric incentive program of the government of Ontario offers a rebate from $3000 to $13000 on the purchase or lease of an electric car. The exact amount depends on the battery capacity of the car.

The EV needs to be on the list of eligible cars and remain registered in Ontario for at least one year. All cars for which a rebate can be received are also eligible for the green license plate, which allows access to reserved lanes, recharging stations and parking lots.

Electric Cars eligible for a rebate in Ontario [as of January 2016]


Clean energy for British Columbia program

The clean energy for British Columbia program (CEVforBC) offers a rebate of up to $5000 on the purchase or lease of an electric car. There are additional incentives if you turn in your old vehicle (SCRAP-IT Program).

Electric Cars eligible for a rebate in British Columbia [as of January 2016]

Smart ForTwo Electric Drive
Source: Automotive Rhythms via Flickr (Creative Commons 2.0 License)