Friday March 28, 2025
Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Friday March 28, 2025 (also, The Toronto Star)
Canada’s EV shift: Beyond U.S. trade ties
As the North American auto sector faces unprecedented challenges, spurred in large part by former President Donald Trump’s aggressive trade policies, Canada finds itself at a crossroads. Trump’s strategy to fortify a domesticated American auto industry has sent ripples across borders, prompting Canada to reconsider its economic alliances and environmental commitments. In light of these developments, it may be time for Canada to chart a new course, embracing a green future that welcomes electric vehicles (EVs) from Europe and even China.
News: Carney calls Trump’s tariffs on vehicles ‘a direct attack’ on Canada and its auto workers
Trump’s approach to the auto industry, characterized by protectionism and high tariffs, has created an unstable environment for Canadian automakers. With tariffs on steel, aluminum, and electric vehicles, Canada faces increasing costs and competitive disadvantages, threatening the viability of its auto sector. The U.S. administration’s focus on bringing manufacturing back to American soil has left Canada with dwindling options and a pressing need to diversify its economic partnerships.
In this context, the opportunity to rethink Canada’s green future is both timely and necessary. The global shift towards sustainable transportation presents a chance for Canada to align its policies with environmental goals, reducing reliance on fossil fuels and promoting cleaner energy. Electric vehicles are at the forefront of this movement, and international manufacturers offer promising alternatives.
European EVs: Europe has long been a leader in environmental regulations and innovation, producing high-quality electric vehicles that meet stringent standards. By strengthening ties with European automakers, Canada can benefit from advanced technology and sustainable practices, positioning itself as a leader in the green transition.
Chinese EVs: China, with its rapid advancements in electric vehicle technology, presents another viable option. Companies like BYD have made significant strides, offering affordable, environmentally friendly vehicles that could significantly boost EV adoption in Canada. Despite political tensions, the economic and environmental benefits of engaging with Chinese manufacturers are compelling.
News: China wants more trade with Canada, envoy says amid U.S. tariffs
It is clear that maintaining the status quo with the U.S. is no longer sustainable for Canada’s auto industry. The need to pursue independent economic policies that prioritize Canada’s interests has never been more apparent. By reconsidering tariffs and fostering partnerships with Europe and China, Canada can secure its place in the global green economy.
This strategic realignment would not only support Canada’s environmental objectives but also provide consumers with more choices and competitive pricing. Allowing more affordable EVs into the Canadian market would accelerate the transition from gasoline vehicles, reducing emissions and promoting sustainability.
Analysis: Should Canada ease its 100% tariff on electric vehicles from China amid trade war with U.S.?
As Canada stands at the precipice of change, the decision to embrace a new path is not just an economic necessity but an opportunity to lead in the fight against climate change. By welcoming European and Chinese electric vehicles, Canada can redefine its future, ensuring a resilient and sustainable auto industry that aligns with its environmental values. In this pivotal moment, Canada has the chance to set a precedent for innovation and collaboration, paving the way for a truly green future.
Letter to the Editor, The Toronto Star, Thursday April 3, 2025
Exhaust-pipe dreams – Canada’s EV shift, Mar. 31
Cartoonist Graeme MacKay nailed it. The North American auto sector doesn’t care about EVs — except to the extent that EVs threaten their lucrative business of keeping internal combustion engines running. In this, it has found common cause with the fossil fuel industry, which also stands to lose out as the public increasingly recognizes the superiority of EVs.
We see evidence for the North American auto sector’s duplicity in its move to change its rapid-charging standard from the global Combined Charging System to Tesla’s previously proprietary plug, a move that makes no sense except as a tactic to dissuade people from purchasing EVs. Yet it does provide an opening for the Canadian government to fight back in U.S. President Donald Trump’s trade war, by insisting that all EVs made in Canada use CCS and that all new EVs sold in Canada be compatible with CCS.
Of course, that would require a federal government that’s willing to stand up to corporate interests, so it won’t happen.
Gary Dale, Toronto