If you are thinking of buying an electric vehicle, you are not alone. Once a novel concept, electric vehicles, also referred to as zero-emission vehicles (ZEVs), have risen in popularity in Canada. In 2022, over 150,00 electric vehicles hit the road, and that number continues to grow. But diving into the world of EVs can be daunting. In this article, we’ll guide you through all aspects of purchasing an electric vehicle, including important considerations, the best models available, and the different EV types. We’ll also cover the benefits of owning an electric vehicle and answer some commonly asked questions.
Different EV types
Before we get into the buying guide, we’ll quickly cover the three electric vehicle types.
Battery Electric Vehicle (BEV): Also known as fully electric cars, BEVs are exclusively powered by an electric motor and battery pack. As a result, they produce no tail-pipe emissions and are the most environmentally friendly.
Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle (PHEV): These vehicles have a rechargeable battery pack and an internal combustion engine. PHEVs run on electric power until the battery drains. When this happens, the internal combustion engine takes over propulsion.
Hybrid Electric Vehicle (HEV): HEVs contain a gasoline engine, an electric motor, and a small battery pack; all three work in tandem. The battery is recharged through a process called regenerative braking: when stopped, the electric motor turns on, while the gas engine takes over when the car accelerates.
Things to consider before buying an EV
Driving needs: Knowing your driving needs ahead of time will help narrow down the options in front of you. If you plan on using an EV as your primary vehicle, you will need a model with a high driving range. Many electric cars have a range of 400-500 km on a full charge. However, they come with a higher price tag. More affordable models have a range of up to 150 km, which is more than capable of handling daily commutes or small errands. One thing to keep in mind though is that the advertised range of an EV is an approximation and should be viewed as a general guide. Most models have a slightly shorter range than what is claimed by the manufacturer. There are several online sources to compare EV ranges. For example, the Electric Vehicle Database lists the driving range of multiple electric vehicle models.
Charging: Recharging an EV seems like a simple task, but there are some key details to know. The overall cost to charge an electric car is low compared to refuelling a gas-powered vehicle. However, charging an EV at home can impact your energy bill. In provinces that use time-of-use electricity pricing (e.g., Ontario and B.C.), charging during off-peak hours (generally from 7 p.m. to 7 a.m.) can reduce the cost of your bill.
There are three levels of EV charging:
As you can see, Level 1 chargers have the slowest charging time. Even though they are the easiest to set up, they are not a viable option for many EV drivers. Installing a Level 2 charger in your home may cost more, but it is a wise investment. Your charging time will be ten times faster, and the overall efficiency will be increased.
Outside of home charging, there are many EV charging stations located across Canada. Public charging stations generally have either Level 2 or DC Fast chargers.
Price: As with any car, prices come into play when shopping for an electric vehicle. Most EVs will have a higher upfront cost compared to a gasoline vehicle. The standard price for high-end models ranges from $45,000-$57,000. Cheaper electric vehicles usually go for $35,000-$38,000 MSRP. And while the initial price can be steep, most EVs have a lower lifetime cost than a gasoline vehicle. Plus, Canada has federal and provincial incentives for purchasing an EV. The federal Incentive for Zero Emission Vehicles (iZEV) program offers up to $5,000 for the purchase of a new eligible EV. Charging is cheaper, and with fewer moving internal parts, maintenance/repair costs are lower as well. You do not have to worry about changing the oil, adjusting valves, replacing the exhaust system, or dealing with other major mechanical issues.
Reliability: There has been much debate on the reliability of EVs. As noted above, most EVs require less maintenance since they have fewer internal moving parts. However, in a survey conducted by Consumer Reports, EV drivers experienced more problems with their vehicles than owners of gasoline vehicles. Some EV models have garnered a reputation for unreliability. For example, Tesla S models have a history of battery and software problems.
You may now think that the average EV comes with a host of troubles. But in truth, most of the reported issues were with technology features such as infotainment screens and other gadgets. Only a minority of drivers had problems with the EV’s drivetrain (e.g., electric motor or battery pack).
In total, any vehicle (gas or electric) is going to experience some issues over the course of its ownership, whether it be major or minor.
The best electric vehicle models in Canada for 2024
Here are our top five electric vehicles available in Canada for 2024. We chose our picks based on the price and performance of each vehicle as well as the number of units sold.
Most Popular-2024 Tesla Model 3
Source: Driving.ca
- Price-Starts at $49,990 MSRP
- Approximate electric range: 438 km on a full charge
- Time to full charge – Level 2: approximately 8.5 hours
- Fuel type: BEV
- Rebates: Up to $5,000 with the iZEV program
The Tesla Model 3 is the top EV in Canada so far in 2023. This EV has an extremely strong performance with fast acceleration, accurate steering, and a silent electric motor. The interior has a surprisingly simple design. Besides the central control touchscreen, the dashboard, centre console, and cupboards are sparse without any extra trims. The Tesla Model 3 also has the longest advertised range with 438 km on a full charge. In terms of efficiency, the Tesla Model 3 is rated between 113 and 138 MPGe (miles per gallon of gasoline-equivalent) by the EPA. This makes it one of the most energy-efficient electric vehicles on the market. The Tesla Model 3 is also one of the largest networks of charging stations in Canada. Most times, you will be able to find a nearby charging station within seconds.
One downside to the Tesla Model 3 is inconsistent build quality. Some models are perfectly constructed, while others come with multiple errors (e.g., ripped lining, wider panel gaps).
Most Affordable-2023 Chevrolet Bolt
- Price: Starts at $38,943 MSRP
- Approximate electric range: 417 km on a full charge.
- Time to full charge – Level 2: approximately 8 hours 25 minutes
- Fuel type: BEV
- Rebates: Up to $5,000 with the iZEV program
For the best affordable EV in 2024, we went with the 2023 Chevrolet Bolt. Even though the price for the 2023 model is higher than previous versions, the Chevrolet Bolt is still one of the least expensive EVs in Canada. What sets the Chevrolet Bolt apart from other cheaper alternatives is its impressive driving range: 417 km on a full charge. For efficiency, the EPA rates the Chevrolet Bolt at 120 MPGe. This EV comes with both Level 1 and Level 2 charger outlets, eliminating the need to buy a separate home charger. Due to its economical price, strong performance, and effective features, the 2023 Chevrolet Bolt is one of the best entry-level EVs for Canadian drivers.
In 2021, Bolt EV and EUV production was suspended in November 2021 due to a battery issue that had the potential to cause a fire. While this issue was resolved in April 2022, it remains a mark on the Bolt’s reputation. And it is also something to be aware of when considering the 2023 Chevrolet Bolt.
Best Plug-In Hybrid-2023 Mitsubishi Outlander
- Price: Starts at $46,538 MSRP.
- Approximate electric range: 61 km on a full charge, 687 km with electricity and gasoline combined.
- Time to full charge – Level 2: approximately 5 hours
- Fuel Type: PHEV
- Rebates: Up to $5,000 with the iZEV program
The 2023 Mitsubishi Outlander is our favourite PHEV-type electric vehicle of the year. Previous models of the Outlander became the most popular plug-in vehicle in Canada for a time, mainly due to its fuel efficiency, comfort, and driving performance. The 2023 Outlander comes with the same attributes along with an updated PHEV powertrain. The battery has been updated as well, with an increased 20 kWh of energy storage. The all-electric driving range reaches 61 km while combining the gasoline and electric fuel types increases the range to 687 km. The EPA rates the Mitsubishi Outlander for 25 mpg city and 27 mpg highway when running on gas. With electric driving, the Outlander has 64 MPGes.
The 2023 Mitsubishi Outlander does have some imperfections. Some drivers have reported issues with the cruise control system, e.g., the system was offline for an entire commute. In cold weather, the electric motors and associated components make a substantial amount of noise. This only occurs for the first few minutes of driving, but it can be annoying.
Best Crossover-2023 Hyundai Kona
- Price: Starts at $44,599 MSRP
- Approximate electric range: 415 km on a full charge
- Time to full charge – Level 2: approximately 9 hours 10 minutes
- Fuel type: BEV
- Rebates: Up to $5,000 with the iZEV program
The Hyundai Kona EV was first introduced in 2022. The 2023 version does not have any significant updates, but it ranks among the top crossovers in Canada. Like the gasoline Kona, the electric version has engaging driving dynamics. Many drivers are surprised at how fast and nimble the Kona Electric is. The vehicle has accurate handling with quick acceleration time. Recharging the battery with a Level 2 charger takes around nine hours, while a Level 3 charger gets the job done in roughly 47 minutes. The EPA rates the Hyundai Kona Electric at 120 MPGe. Some additional features of the Kona Electric include 544 litres of cargo room (1,296 litres with the seats down), adaptive cruise control, blind spot warning, and forward collision warning.
One complaint drivers have with the Kona Electric is that its cargo room is relatively small for a crossover SUV. Other drivers have said the Kona EV has tight rear legroom. But other than that, the Hyundai Kona electric delivers a strong performance with top-tier efficiency.
Best Luxury-2023 Genesis GV60 Advanced
- Price: Starts at $71,000. Not available for incentives
- Approximate electric range: 399 km on a full charge
- Time to full charge – Level 2: approximately 10 hours
- Fuel type: BEV
- Not eligible for rebates at the federal level
The best luxury EV in Canada for 2023 goes to the Genesis GV60. And the manufacturers pulled all the stops to deliver an outstanding electric vehicle. The overall vehicle has an elegant design that stands out from other vehicles on the road. The interior is lined with quilted leather and shiny metallic trim on various controls and handles. The GV60 has an electric range of 399 km on a full charge, and it takes about 10 hours to recharge the battery with a Level 2 charger. For efficiency, the GV60 is rated 103 MPGe city and 86 MPGe highway.
On the downside, the Genesis GV60 has an expensive price tag. And the vehicle is currently not eligible for rebates/incentives at the federal and provincial levels.
The pros and cons of owning an electric vehicle
There are several benefits to owning an electric vehicle. As we have highlighted earlier, EVs will help you save money on gas and maintenance fees. And with the incentives available at the provincial and federal levels, most EVs are not that much more expensive than an ICE vehicle. The main benefit of an EV though is the lower emissions. Even when factoring in manufacturing and electricity generation, EVs produce far fewer greenhouse gases than the average gasoline vehicle.
There are some downsides to driving an electric vehicle. If your home has a Level 1 charger, then your charging time will be very slow. While EV charging infrastructure is continuing to grow, there are some spots in Canada with very few public stations. This becomes problematic for EV drivers commuting long distances (e.g., road trips). EV performance dips during cold weather. In a study by Consumer Reports, cold weather sapped around 25% of an EV’s range when cruising at 70 mph (112 km).
Frequently asked questions about EV
How environmentally friendly are electric vehicles?
As mentioned earlier in this article, electric vehicles have lower tailpipe emissions than gas-powered vehicles. This is particularly true for BEV-type electric cars, where no emissions are generated while driving. Furthermore, studies have found that EVs can help reduce 519,000 tonnes of greenhouse gas emissions per year.
One point to consider is that vehicle emission levels can vary by province. This is largely due to how the province generates electricity. Québec, British Columbia, and Manitoba have less carbon-intensive electricity generation because of their large use of renewable energy sources. Meanwhile, Alberta and Saskatchewan have carbon-intensive grids due to their reliance on natural gas generation. Therefore, PHEVs and EVs charged in those provinces will have higher emissions.
To see a breakdown of emissions by vehicle type in each province and territory, click here.
How long do electric car batteries last?
The average lifespan of an electric vehicle’s battery is 10 to 20 years. Some factors that can negatively affect that lifespan include extreme weather (e.g., cold fronts) and using fast charging. While every electric vehicle battery will degrade over time, manufacturers are developing ways in which to protect the battery. Some examples of this are thermal management systems and charging restrictions.
When will all vehicles be electric?
The Canadian government plans to have all new cars, SUVs, and light trucks be electric by 2035. To achieve this goal, the government has set sales targets, which are:
- 395,000 new EV sales in 2026
- 1.2 million new EV sales in 2030
- 2.0 million new EV sales in 2035
It is important to note that the government’s 2035 EV mandate does not prohibit gas-powered vehicles from the road. The mandate only applies to new vehicles sold. Gas-powered vehicles purchased before 2035 will be still allowed on Canada’s roads.
Some experts have questioned whether this goal is feasible. While EV sales have risen each year since 2021, it has not been slower when compared to other countries. In 2023, zero-emission vehicles comprised 11.7$ of new vehicle registrations in Canada. While this is a significant number, it falls short of the ZEV markets of China, Europe, and the U.S., which collectively account for 95% of ZEV sales.
What is regenerative braking in electric vehicles?
Regenerative braking is a mechanism used in EVs to capture kinetic energy during deceleration, which is stored in the battery to be used as electricity to power the electric motor. The system is mainly used in hybrid electric vehicles. In other EVs, regenerative braking is used to top up the battery; it is not used as the primary recharging method.
What impact will electric vehicles have on Canada’s grid?
This question has become a popular topic of conversation in Canada. A concern held by some groups is that the increased number of EVs will put too much stress on the provincial power grid, leading to instability and outages.
This worry is not unfounded. A 2020 study commissioned by Natural Resources Canada found that EVs will consume 156.5 terawatt-hours per year by 2050, based on the federal EV sales targets. Additionally, a 2022 report by the Canadian Climate Institute concluded that Canada’s electricity generation capacity will need to grow to meet the demand for EV charging. The report recommended connecting inter-provincial and territorial grids so that electricity can be shared. Other measures that will provide relief include bidirectional EV charging and increasing renewable energy generation.
An important point to remember is that the transition to EVs will be a gradual process that will take place over 30 years. As a result, the growth in demand will be slow, manageable, and somewhat predictable; provinces and municipalities will have time to plan and adjust accordingly.
What are common EV myths?
There are countless EV myths that have been floating around. Here are some popular examples and the truth behind them:
Electric vehicles are worse for the climate than gasoline cars because of the power plant emissions.
- Even accounting for emissions that are released when electricity is generated for electric vehicle use, research shows that an EV is typically responsible for lower levels of greenhouse gases (GHGs) than an average new gasoline car.
Electric vehicles don’t have enough range to handle daily travel demands.
- Electric vehicles are more than sufficient to handle daily household travel, which equates to about 50 miles (~80 km) for a typical USA household. Many electric vehicle models can travel 200 miles (~321 km) on a fully charged battery.
Electric vehicles only come as sedans.
- Electric vehicles come in a variety of shapes and sizes – if you review our section about what electric vehicles are the most fuel-efficient in 2023, you’ll see that electric vehicles range from compact cars to minivans.
There is nowhere to charge.
- In the States, there are over 38,000 charging stations available. According to Electric Autonomy Canada, just under 30,000 public charging stations are currently installed in Canada.
Electric vehicles are worse for the climate than gasoline cars because of battery manufacturing.
- The greenhouse gas emissions associated with an electric vehicle over its lifetime are typically lower than those from an average gasoline-powered vehicle, even when accounting for manufacturing.
- You can compare the overall greenhouse gas emissions between a gas vs. electric vehicle in the graph by the U.S. Department of Energy:
Source: https://greet.es.anl.gov/ (2019)
Electric vehicles aren’t safe because the battery can be an additional hazard in the event of an accident.
- The same risks exist for all drivers, regardless of how the vehicle is powered. Precautions, such as collision detectors, cooling systems and protective coverings are available in electric vehicles.
