By Blair Qualey
Plug-in hybrid electric vehicles are becoming a dominant force in the Canadian automotive market. According to Statistics Canada, combined hybrid registrations climbed more than 107 per cent year-over-year by the end of 2023 — and they might just be the perfect vehicle for many British Columbians. As drivers seek a balance between performance, range, fuel efficiency, and environmental responsibility, hybrid models offer an appealing solution.
Electric vehicle sales were up in all provinces through Q2 of 2024, with more than 65,000 battery electric vehicles (BEVs) and plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs) were registered in the second quarter of this year, according to Statistics Canada. That’s equal to 12.9 per cent of all new vehicle registrations. Over the same period five years ago, BEVs and PHEVs made up just 3.4 per cent. BC reported 9,370 new BEV registrations in Q2.
Of prime importance to New Car Dealers and consumers is the ongoing commitment to the Clean BC Go Electric Vehicle Rebate Program which we have administered on behalf of the province for the past 13 years and makes ZEVs more affordable. In 2023, there were more than 22,500 processed rebates – an all-time high.
Almost 8,700 buyers applied for the $4,000 incentive over the first four months of 2024, a 53-per-cent increase from just under 5,700 applications during the same months of 2023.
However, market experts suggest we are past the early adopter phase (referring to customers who buy into new technologies before most people). The next step is to convince a much wider swath of Canadians that electrification is right for them.
That mainstream buyer will take extra effort to convince them to ditch gas-powered cars. That could explain why sales of plug-in hybrids are revving up. PHEVs allow drivers to travel moderate distances on electric power. Once the battery is depleted, the gas-powered engine can take over. It’s a compromise that may appeal to customers concerned about range and charging infrastructure, offering a less risky choice than going all-electric.
Another obvious element driving consumers towards hybrids is fuel efficiency. With gas prices frequently fluctuating, especially in BC, drivers are more conscious than ever of fuel consumption.
Until advancements in charging infrastructure take shape, it would appear that hybrids will continue to hold appeal. They also tend to hold their value well in the resale market, particularly as demand for eco-friendly vehicles continues to rise. This makes them a wise investment for those considering long-term ownership.
From daily commutes to weekend getaways and road trips through the mountains, hybrids are a smart and sustainable choice for BC residents looking to make a positive impact on the environment without sacrificing the convenience and power of a gas-powered vehicle.
Blair Qualey is President and CEO of the New Car Dealers Association of BC. You can email him at [email protected].
