It looks like more than a majority of Canadians are considering an electric vehicle (EV) for their next vehicle. According to Volvo Car Canada’s 2024 Mobility Trend Report, 64% of Canadians would consider a hybrid, plug-in hybrid, or battery EV for their next car.
However, the report also showcases some of the barriers that ZEV automakers must overcome in the next few years.
- 76% of those surveyed are not open to purchasing an electric vehicle as they are currently too expensive.
- 78% of respondents noted that electric vehicle charging infrastructure is not positioned to make EVs a good option for their next vehicle.
- Only 15% of Canadians felt that EVs have a better overall value than traditional vehicles when considering overall cost, maintenance, insurance, and charging/gas prices.
- While almost two-thirds of respondents said that the environmental benefits of EVs were overhyped.
The survey also highlighted some other interesting responses, including:
- 46% of respondents said that a vehicle with a more extended range would make a difference in their decision.
- Meanwhile, 38% noted they wanted better government rebates or incentives to consider a ZEV.
The study is not a shock, as we have seen similar results across the board with a general rise in interest in EVs, but the general concerns remain the same. For the general public, people want an EV that is cheaper, has a longer range, and has the available charging infrastructure to support the cross-provincial travel that so many do in Canada.
You can read the full report here.