Vancouver, B.C. -- A B.C. dealers association says new adjustments to the province’s zero-emission vehicle policies will do little to ease long-standing affordability concerns.
This week, the provincial government announced several temporary changes to its ZEV framework. The framework is the set of rules under the Zero-Emission Vehicles Act that requires an increasing share of new light-duty vehicle sales in the province to be zero-emission vehicles. Current targets require 26 percent ZEV sales by 2026, 90 percent by 2030 and 100 percent by 2035.
The interim measures include expanding the list of vehicle models that qualify for ZEV compliance credits, easing the electric-range requirements for plug-in hybrids and battery electric vehicles, and introducing a credit system that rewards manufacturers for lowering prices, offering low-interest financing or supporting charging infrastructure. The government described these steps as short-term actions intended to address market pressure while a broader legislative update is developed for next year.
The New Car Dealers Association of BC said the changes acknowledge some of the issues facing buyers and retailers but will not address the cost barrier that has deterred many consumers. In its statement, NCDA president and chief executive officer Blair Qualey said: “We appreciate the provincial government’s thoughtful interim steps to strengthen ZEV policy in B.C., including enhanced recognition of plug-in hybrids and the introduction of affordability measures. These changes reflect a genuine effort to address some of the challenges dealers and consumers are facing in the EV market.”
He added: “At the same time, it is crucial that government aligns its ZEV sales targets with realistic market conditions. We must ensure that affordability and accessibility remain at the forefront as we transition to cleaner transportation.”
The association noted that it raised similar concerns earlier this year. On International EV Day, it warned that rising prices, stricter mandates and reduced incentives risk undermining the province’s progress. At that time, Qualey said: “B.C. risks losing its position as Canada’s EV leader if policy makers fail to recognize the realities of what is happening on the ground.”
In both statements, the NCDA stressed the importance of consumer support, saying rebates have played a central role in EV adoption. Qualey said: “More than 109,000 rebates have been issued since 2014, including 25,000 this year alone. Ending rebate funding at a time when affordability is already strained creates unnecessary pressure for buyers.”
The association is calling on both levels of government to restore purchase incentives, align provincial and federal ZEV rules and expand public charging. “We encourage the province and the federal government to restore consumer incentives, harmonize ZEV policies and invest in reliable charging,” Qualey said. “Consistent policy is essential so that dealers can plan, manufacturers can supply and consumers can make confident choices.”
