New Economy Canada welcomes policy durability and clarity that will unlock additional investment in B.C.’s EV sector
(VANCOUVER, B.C.) April 1, 2026. Today, the B.C. government introduced amendments to its Zero-Emission Vehicle Act and announced new funding for public EV charging, aligning with federal policy and bolstering one of Canada’s largest charging networks.
Highlights include:
- An adjustment of the legislated 2035 target to 75 per cent zero-emission vehicle (ZEV) sales, broadly aligning with proposed federal vehicle emission regulations.
- An additional $19.1 million in support for 75 new EV charging projects, adding 277 direct current fast charger ports and 51 Level 2 charger ports.
Why this matters:
- An estimated 384 companies compete in B.C.’s ZEV sector, employing 8,280 British Columbians full time and contributing $920 million to GDP (2023).
- Durable, predictable policy, paired with the flexibility to adapt to changing market conditions, builds investor confidence and provides the clarity needed to unlock continued investment.
- Alignment with the federal auto strategy helps grow Canada’s domestic EV market, supporting jobs and economic prosperity across manufacturing and battery supply chains, including in Ontario and Quebec.
In response, Nancy Wright, VP of Operations and Business Engagement at New Economy Canada, said:
“The global auto market is rapidly electrifying, and the places that keep pace will be the ones that attract investment, jobs and the best options for consumers.
By maintaining its Zero Emission Vehicle Act and continuing to build out charging infrastructure, B.C. is positioning itself to stay competitive. That means more choice and affordability for B.C. drivers and more certainty for investors in B.C.’s burgeoning EV sector.
These benefits won’t stop at provincial borders. A stronger EV market in B.C. will strengthen the foundation for a domestic EV manufacturing industry, supporting jobs and growth across Canada’s manufacturing and battery supply chains, particularly in Ontario and Quebec.”