Unceded Anishinaabe Algonquin Territories [OTTAWA], 5 February 2026:
In response to the federal government’s new automotive strategy released today, Caroline Brouillette, Executive Director of Climate Action Network Canada, made the following statement:
“After the uncertainty the federal government created last year over the future of the Electric Vehicle Availability Standard (EVAS) and federal rebates, this new strategy finally provides welcome clarity for both Canadian workers and consumers.
“With the sales mandate removed, regulations yet to be developed, and a watered-down target, this plan is less ambitious than the previous strategy. Still, it’s a good second-best option. Pressure from the auto lobby, misinformation, and a hostile American President have held Canada back, but we hope that this plan will help Canada catch up to other countries that are seeing booming electric vehicle sales.
“We’re glad to see the investment in charging infrastructure and the return of consumer rebates—as well as the incentives for manufacturers to keep production in Canada. Today’s announcement should make it easier and more affordable for households to choose to buy an electric vehicle.
“EVs are just one part of the bigger shift needed to align our transportation sector, and our whole economy, with a climate-safe and healthy future—but today’s announcement shows that Canada’s decarbonization and its competitiveness go hand in hand.”
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Canada’s farthest-reaching network of organizations working on climate and energy issues, Climate Action Network – Réseau action climat (CAN-Rac) Canada is a coalition of close to 200 organizations operating from coast to coast to coast. Our membership brings environmental groups together with trade unions, First Nations, social justice, development, health and youth organizations, faith groups and local, grassroots initiatives.
For more information or to arrange an interview, contact:
Vicky Coo, Communications Manager
comms@climateactionnetwork.ca