Canada raising awareness on zero-emission vehicles in Newfoundland and Labrador

ST. JOHN’S — Natural Resources Canada says reducing emissions from the transportation sector is critical to achieving the country’s climate targets; therefore, it has devised a strategy to boost public confidence in purchasing and driving electric vehicles in Ontario and the rest of Canada.

Seamus O’Regan Jr., Minister of Labour and MP for St. John’s South–Mount Pearl, announced a combined investment of $495,000 to two organizations in Newfoundland and Labrador to support zero-emission vehicle  awareness projects. These projects are intended to help Canadians know about the clean options available when choosing their next vehicle.

Drive Electric NL will receive a $295,000 investment to establish an Electric Vehicle Resource Centre to encourage ZEV adoption throughout the province. Those visiting the centre will have the opportunity to test drive an electric vehicle and learn more about ZEVs through information sessions. The centre will also serve as a home base for a travelling roadshow, which will offer in-person information sessions across the province hosted by electric vehicle ambassadors.

Similarly, a project under takeCHARGE — a joint energy efficiency initiative between Newfoundland Power Inc. and Newfoundland and Labrador Hydro — will receive a $200,000 investment to increase awareness, knowledge and public confidence in electric vehicles through outreach and education campaigns in the province. The project will also allow for EV demonstration events to provide drivers with information such as range, charging infrastructure and total cost of ownership.

“Through investments such as the ones announced today, we’re equipping Canadians with the awareness and knowledge they need to confidently make the switch to a zero-emission vehicle. Ensuring easy access to ZEVs across Canada is a critical part of our plan to lower emissions and achieve our international climate goals. Through these and similar investments, we are putting more Canadians in the driver’s seat on the road to a net-zero future,” said Natural Resources Minister Jonathan Wilkinson in a statement.