The Ontario government has released phase two of its ‘Driving Prosperity’ strategy that aims to position the province at the forefront in the transition to an electrified future.
Premier Doug Ford unveiled the new strategy Wednesday, saying the goal is to grow Ontario’s auto sector by building 400,000 electric and hybrid vehicles by 2030.
To reach that goal, the government will support local producers to help build a new EV supply chain, from mining and refining of raw materials to the manufacturing of batteries and vehicles.
“Our government has a plan to unleash Ontario’s economic potential as we build up home-grown supply chains for electric vehicles and battery manufacturing. This plan makes clear that Ontario is a world-leading partner in creating the best vehicles with the best labour force and clean energy. With this next phase of Driving Prosperity, we’re telling the world: we want your businesses!” ,” said Premier Doug Ford. (via CTV News)
During the press conference, Ford reiterated that he still believes “millionaire” Tesla buyers shouldn’t be receiving a government rebate to purchase their cars.
He did however soften his stance from last week, hinting that the rebate might one day return.
“Before the election I didn’t believe in giving millionaires rebates on over-$100,000 Tesla cars, nothing against Tesla cars, they’re beautiful cars, but I just didn’t believe in it, let’s see how the market dictates. We’re putting billions and billions into the electric vehicle market, into companies, and we’re partnering with the federal government,” he said.
The Driving Prosperity strategy has four main objectives:
- Reposition vehicle and parts production for the car of the future through new automaker mandates for hybrid and battery EVs, attract a new battery assembly plant and increase exports of Ontario-made auto parts and innovations
- Establish and support an electric battery supply chain ecosystem that connects Northern Ontario’s mineral wealth with the manufacturing strength of Southern Ontario
- Innovate in every stage of development from creation, to design, to adoption of new products and services
- Invest in Ontario’s auto workers by equipping them with the skills they need to secure rewarding, high-paying jobs in the auto sector and across the broader supply chain.
