Toronto, Ontario — In today’s EV/AV report, a new federal investment program to promote ZEVs, police forces around Canada field test electric vehicles (EVs) and an Indigenous community integrates EV infrastructure.
Reducing remissions
Natural Resources Canada (NRCan) announced a $4.6 million investment into 22 organizations to support zero-emission vehicle (ZEV) awareness across Canada.
This funding comes from the federal government’s Zero Emission Vehicle Awareness Initiative, a commitment to promote awareness, knowledge and confidence in ZEVs and public charging infrastructure and ultimately promote ZEV adoption across the country.
“The transition to electric vehicles is a critical element of Toronto’s climate action strategy,” said John Tory, mayor of Toronto. “Addressing the impacts of climate change and protecting our environment takes an all-hands-on-deck approach, and we need the help of all governments to be able to move forward.”
Ten-three, Green P
Multiple law enforcement agencies have begun pilot programs to integrate EVs into their motor pool, citing ecological concerns. This includes but is not limited to the Peel Regional Police, Repentigny police and North Vancouver RCMP.
At least one agency believes this switch would soften their image – according to Repentigny’s police force, (SPVR), the combination of EVs and high visibility colours aims to promote a less menacing image.
Besides cost savings and public relations, the switch may be a tactical one. According to Mark Figueiredo, director at the Peel Regional Police says that electric vehicles have a silent engine and may only be recognized after spotting their vehicle markings or siren lights.
Indigenous connections
The Mohawk Council of Akwesasne (MCA) has received a $291,000 grant from the federal government to purchase four electric vehicles and four charging stations for the St. Regis community.
“Ensuring easy accessibility to ZEVs throughout Canada is an essential part of our plan to decrease emissions and obtain our worldwide local weather targets,“ said Jonathan Wilkinson, federal Minister of Natural Resources.
The MCA Is also considering a marketing campaign to advertise the strengths of electric vehicles to the community.
