In an effort to bring British Columbia closer to CleanBC goal, the province has announced $2 million in new rebates for electric vehicles (EVs).
The new funds will be part of the CleanBC Specialty-Use Vehicle Incentive (SUVI) program, and will give out rebates ranging from $1,750, up to $50,000 off the purchase of qualifying electric vehicles.
These can include passenger buses, airport and port service vehicles, motorcycles, low-speed utility trucks, and heavy-duty transport trucks purchased by businesses, local and regional governments, and non-profit organizations buying five or fewer EVs.
“Through CleanBC, we’re making cleaner options more affordable and increasing the use of electric vehicles in how we get around,” said Bruce Ralston, Minister of Energy, Mines and Petroleum Resources in a statement. “These rebates will support B.C. businesses, including those in the tourism sector, in purchasing an electric bus, service vehicle or utility truck, helping them to reduce air pollution, save on fuels and grow their business.”
The SUVI program has already been put to use, with Harbour Air Seaplanes purchasing a fully electric, zero-emission passenger shuttle bus from BC-based GreenPower Motor Company. The company plans to use the shuttle bus to carry passengers between its downtown Vancouver and Richmond locations, and the Vancouver International Airport.
If the name Harbour Air sounds familiar, they flew the first electric seaplane over Vancouver in December last year.
The Government of British Columbia also recently announced new rules that automakers must abide by to help the province reach 100% EV sales by the year 2040.
Featured image via Harbour Air
