Electric Vehicles and our future
It has been widely known for many decades that electric transportation has many advantages over non-renewable fuel powered alternatives.
Compared to non-renewable fuel, EVs offer:
- Reduced emissions
- High efficiency
- Low operating costs and reduced maintenance
The challenges that have impeded progress of EVs include
- Energy storage
- Range limitations
- Limited infrastructure for charging
- Charging time
- High initial cost
- Life-cycle cost
- Battery capacity and life-cycle
- Battery energy density, life and environmentally acceptable disposal
Most of the challenges have been managed to the point where EVs are a viable alternative for personal transportation in an urban environment.
Ontario offers incentive programs to encourage the purchase of EV’s priced under $75,000. Buyers may receive up to$14,000 in subsidies depending on the criteria met by the vehicle.
Update – As of July 11, 2018 the PC government has cancelled all EV incentives. Details are in this link to the Ministry of transportation
According to the Ministry of Transportation, incentives for eligible vehicles are computed as follows:
- $3,000 to $10,000 based on the EV’s all-electric range; plus
- $2,000 to $7,000 based on the EV’s seating capacity;
Up to a maximum of $14,000 per eligible EV, and
- $14,000 for each eligible HFCV.
The incentive list of qualifying vehicles and subsidy is on the MTO website here.
Note that the above incentives are no longer available.
In a series of articles I will explore various aspects of Electric Vehicles and their impact on Ontario.
Let’s look at some of the considerations of electrification in no particular order. Use the titles to pick out specific topics of interest but be sure to read them all!
Electric Vehicles – Yay or Nay?
Electric Vehicles and greenhouse gas emissions
Electric Vehicle efficiency and operating cost
Living with an Electric Vehicle
Electric Vehicle infrastructure impact
I am sure you will get a charge out of this topic!
Derek