Ottawa invests $97M in EV infrastructure, launches automotive strategy

The federal government has unveiled a new Automotive Strategy aimed at strengthening Canada’s auto sector while accelerating the shift toward electric vehicles.

The strategy includes a five-year Electric Vehicle Affordability Program and expanded charging infrastructure through the Canada Infrastructure Bank’s $1.5-billion Charging and Hydrogen Refuelling Infrastructure Initiative.

The government says the plan builds on existing progress, including the installation of more than 30,000 electric vehicle chargers nationwide through Natural Resources Canada’s Zero Emission Vehicle Infrastructure Program. It also plans to develop a National Charging Infrastructure Strategy to boost EV adoption, attract private investment and create jobs in the EV supply chain.

Federal ministers announced more than $97 million in funding for 155 clean transportation projects across the country. The funding includes $84.4 million for 122 projects expected to install more than 8,000 EV chargers, $5.7 million for three Green Freight Program projects aimed at reducing fleet emissions and fuel costs, and $7.2 million for 30 education and awareness initiatives, including 11 Indigenous-led projects.

Energy and Natural Resources Minister Tim Hodgson said expanding charging infrastructure remains key to consumer adoption.

“We know range anxiety makes it harder to choose an EV, which is why Canada is investing in our infrastructure – and with new EV chargers opening every month, we are seeing results,” said Hodgson. “Canada’s new Auto Strategy, including our National Charging Infrastructure Strategy, will build on this progress by injecting a major federal investment and catalyzing private investment in EV charging.”

Transport Minister Steven MacKinnon said the strategy is designed to protect jobs and improve vehicle affordability, while Environment Minister Julie Dabrusin said expanding charging access will support emissions reductions and create jobs.

“We are making it easier, cleaner and more affordable for Canadians to get where they need to go by investing in new EV charging infrastructure,” said Dabrusin. “We are building thousands of new EV chargers and creating skilled construction jobs in communities across Canada. Making the switch to an electric vehicle reduces greenhouse gas emissions, and with the EV Affordability Program, drivers can save up to $5,000, making EVs more accessible for Canadians to go electric.”

Canada Infrastructure Bank CEO Ehren Cory said the bank is increasing its infrastructure initiative by $1 billion.

“With more than $500 million already committed to FLO, Parkland and JOLT – enabling up to 5,400 new, public, fast charging stations – the funding aims to increase private sector–led electric vehicle charging infrastructure in communities across Canada,” he said.