The number of EVs (electric vehicles) on Quebec roads has shot up 71% in one year,1 driven by rebates and the improved range of many popular models that now compares to that of gas-powered vehicles.
Many of the recently launched EV models aimed at general consumers can now travel around 400 km on a single charge. Visitors to the Montreal International Auto Show (MIAS) will have the opportunity to test drive electric vehicles free of charge. MIAS and CAA-Québec are working together on this initiative for the 8th consecutive year. For 2020, four models will be available for test drive: last year’s sensation the Hyundai Kona Electric (415 km), the forever ultramodern Chevrolet Bolt EV (417 km), the new Kia Soul EV (383 km), and the Nissan Leaf (243 to 363 km depending on the model).
Six other highly popular EVs are also available for a spin: the BMW i3s, Hyundai IONIQ Electric, Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV, Prius Prime (plug-in hybrid), and the Volkswagen e-Golf, as well as Toyota’s Mirai (hydrogen). The BMW i8 Roadster will also impress fans of sportier EVs! In all, 11 electrified vehicles will be available for test driving thanks to the participation of Transition énergétique Québec working together with MIAS, Running electric, and FLO, a Quebec supplier of charging services.
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“Electric vehicles are part of the solution to rising GHG emissions, and we should continue to promote them. As technology advances and costs decline, more and more people will see the writing on the wall.” |
- Pierre-Serge Labbé, VP, Automotive Services, CAA-Quebec
EV models for every lifestyle
Crossovers, SUVs, compacts, sedans, luxury cars—there are now EVs for every lifestyle, as well as plug-in hybrids for the best of both worlds. EVs remain pricier than their gas-powered equivalents when you drive them off the lot, but the gap is closing, particularly with the arrival of federal rebates that combine with the Quebec rebates to shave a not‑insubstantial $13,000 off the price (after taxes). Factor in gas and electricity costs and an EV can end up costing the same as a vehicle with an internal combustion engine—or even less! Skeptics too will see the light when they compare, using the CAA Driving Costs Calculator.
See you at the Montreal Auto Show!
The Montreal International Auto Show runs from January 17 to 26 at Palais des congrès de Montréal. Sign up for your test drives in Viger Hall on Level 2 or at the Équiterre booth on Level 7. Test drives follow a 3.1 km course on roads and highways together with a guide who can answer any questions you have about the vehicle.
About CAA-Quebec
CAA-Quebec is a not-for-profit organization that assists each of its members by providing mobility, travel, insurance, and residential benefits, products, and services.
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1 Number of vehicles registered in Quebec on October 31, 2019: 62,900 vs. October 31, 2018: 36,700. Source: The Electric Circuit