Doug Ford Electric Car Plans What You Need to Know

Doug Ford’s electric car strategy focuses on boosting Ontario’s auto sector with major investments in EV manufacturing and charging infrastructure. The plan includes $5 billion in incentives to attract battery plants and retool factories, positioning the province as a North American EV hub while aiming for 400,000 public chargers by 2030.

Key Takeaways

• Ford’s EV push: Investing $1.2B to expand electric vehicle production in Ontario.
• Charging network: 5,000+ new public chargers coming by 2025.
• Tax incentives: Up to $5,000 rebates for EV buyers until 2026.
• Local jobs: 1,800+ new manufacturing jobs tied to EV transition.
• Timeline: All new vehicles sold in Ontario to be zero-emission by 2035.
• Focus models: F-150 Lightning and E-Transit prioritized for Canadian market.

Doug Ford Electric Car Plans: What You Need to Know

As the world accelerates toward sustainable transportation, Ontario’s political landscape is undergoing a significant shift—especially under the leadership of Premier Doug Ford. While the Ford government has historically been associated with traditional automotive manufacturing, recent years have seen a dramatic pivot toward electric vehicle (EV) infrastructure, incentives, and industrial policy. This transformation is not just about environmental responsibility; it’s a strategic move to position Ontario as a North American hub for electric mobility, battery production, and green innovation.

From major investments in EV manufacturing plants to controversial policy reversals and bold new commitments, Doug Ford’s electric car plans are reshaping the province’s economy, environment, and everyday life for drivers. Whether you’re a current EV owner, a prospective buyer, a business owner considering fleet electrification, or simply curious about Ontario’s green future, understanding these plans is essential. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll break down Doug Ford’s evolving electric car strategy, analyze the real-world impact on consumers and industry, explore the incentives and infrastructure rollout, and examine how Ontario compares to other provinces and global leaders in the EV race. Buckle up—Ontario is charging forward, and the road ahead is electric.

Doug Ford’s EV Policy Evolution: From Skepticism to Strategic Investment

When Doug Ford first took office in 2018, his administration was widely seen as skeptical of electric vehicles. The immediate cancellation of Ontario’s previous cap-and-trade program—and with it, the province’s popular EV purchase rebates—sent shockwaves through the green community. At the time, the Ford government argued that such incentives were ineffective and costly, favoring instead a “market-driven” approach to climate policy.

Reversal of Early Stance on EV Incentives

However, by 2020, the narrative began to shift. The global EV market was booming, with major automakers like Ford Motor Company (no relation) investing billions in electric models. Recognizing the economic potential, Doug Ford’s government started to reevaluate its position. In 2021, the province launched the Electric Vehicle Charging Program (EVCP), allocating $15 million to install over 1,000 public charging stations across Ontario. This marked the first major step toward embracing electrification—not as a political ideal, but as an economic imperative.

By 2022, the government announced a $1.7 billion investment to retool the Ford Oakville Assembly Plant into a dedicated EV production facility, signaling a full-scale commitment to electric mobility. This wasn’t just a plant upgrade—it was a transformation of Ontario’s industrial identity.

Strategic Alignment with Federal and Global Trends

The Ford government’s EV pivot aligns with broader trends. The federal government’s Zero-Emission Vehicle (ZEV) mandate requires 20% of new light-duty vehicle sales to be zero-emission by 2026, rising to 100% by 2035. Ontario, as Canada’s largest auto manufacturing province, cannot afford to be left behind. Doug Ford’s administration has since positioned Ontario as a key partner in this national transition, leveraging federal funding and private investment to build a competitive EV ecosystem.

Example: The Oakville EV plant, now under construction, will produce electric versions of Ford’s popular F-Series trucks and SUVs. Once operational in 2025, it’s expected to create over 4,000 jobs and produce 250,000 EVs annually—making it one of the largest EV manufacturing sites in North America.

Major Investments in EV Manufacturing and Battery Supply Chain

Doug Ford’s electric car strategy is not just about selling EVs—it’s about building them. Ontario is rapidly becoming a powerhouse in EV and battery manufacturing, thanks to a series of high-profile investments that span the entire supply chain.

EV Manufacturing: The Oakville Transformation

The $1.7 billion investment in the Oakville Assembly Plant is the crown jewel of Ontario’s EV manufacturing push. Funded jointly by the provincial government ($500 million), the federal government ($500 million), and Ford Motor Company ($700 million), the plant will produce electric versions of the Ford Explorer and Lincoln Aviator. The project includes:

• Retooling of assembly lines for battery integration and electric drivetrains
• On-site battery pack assembly to reduce supply chain vulnerabilities
• Workforce retraining programs to transition 3,000+ unionized workers to EV production
• Commitment to net-zero emissions in plant operations by 2030

This investment is expected to generate over $1.5 billion in annual economic activity and solidify Ontario’s role in Ford’s North American EV strategy.

Battery and Component Manufacturing: Building a Domestic Supply Chain

To support EV production, Ontario is investing heavily in battery manufacturing. In 2023, the government announced a $1.3 billion partnership with Stellantis and LG Energy Solution to build a 45 GWh lithium-ion battery manufacturing plant in Windsor. The facility, set to open in 2025, will produce batteries for Stellantis EVs (including Jeep, Dodge, and Chrysler models) and create 2,500 direct jobs.

Additionally, the province is supporting smaller component manufacturers through the Ontario Vehicle Innovation Network (OVIN), a $56.4 million initiative that funds R&D in EV software, battery tech, and smart mobility. OVIN has already supported over 100 startups and SMEs, including:

• Li-Cycle: A Toronto-based company recycling EV batteries with 95% material recovery
• FLO: A Quebec-based EV charging company expanding operations in Ontario
• eLeapPower: A Waterloo startup developing wireless EV charging systems

These investments are critical because without a robust domestic supply chain, Ontario risks becoming a “screwdriver assembly” hub rather than a true innovation leader. Doug Ford’s government is betting that vertical integration—from raw materials to final assembly—will give Ontario a competitive edge.

EV Incentives and Consumer Support: What’s Available Now?

While Ontario does not currently offer a provincial EV purchase rebate (unlike Quebec or British Columbia), the Ford government has introduced a mix of infrastructure, tax, and financing incentives to support EV adoption. Here’s what consumers need to know:

Federal Incentives: The Main Driver of Affordability

Ontario residents can access the federal iZEV Program, which offers up to $5,000 off the purchase or lease of a new EV. Eligible vehicles must be:

• Priced at $55,000 or less (or $65,000 for larger vehicles like SUVs and trucks)
• Zero-emission (battery electric or hydrogen fuel cell)
• Purchased from a registered dealer

Tip: Always verify eligibility on the Natural Resources Canada website—some models (e.g., Tesla Model 3 Long Range) may exceed price caps.

Provincial Incentives: Charging, Parking, and Tax Benefits

Though no direct purchase rebate exists, Ontario offers several indirect benefits:

• Free overnight charging at public stations (via the EVCP program)
• HST exemption on new EV purchases (saving ~13% on a $50,000 vehicle)
• HOV lane access for EVs with a valid decal, even with only one occupant
• Discounted parking at select municipal lots (e.g., Toronto, Ottawa)

Example: A Toronto resident buying a $52,000 Chevrolet Bolt EUV would save $6,760 in HST and gain access to HOV lanes—equivalent to a $1,500 annual benefit based on reduced commute time.

Home Charging Support: The EV Home Charger Program

Launched in 2023, the EV Home Charger Program offers rebates of up to $1,000 for installing Level 2 chargers in single-family homes. The program covers 50% of installation costs (max $1,000) and is administered through local utilities like Hydro One and Toronto Hydro.

How to apply:

1. Choose a certified EV charger (e.g., ChargePoint Home Flex, FLO Home X5)
2. Hire a licensed electrician for installation
3. Submit receipts and proof of EV ownership to your utility
4. Receive rebate via cheque or direct deposit

Tip: Pair the rebate with federal tax credits (e.g., the Canada Greener Homes Loan) to reduce out-of-pocket costs further.

Charging Infrastructure: The Road to 10,000 Public Stations

One of the biggest barriers to EV adoption is “range anxiety”—the fear of running out of power without access to a charger. Doug Ford’s government has made charging infrastructure a top priority, with ambitious targets and real progress.

Current Charging Network: Where Are We Now?

As of 2024, Ontario has over 5,800 public EV charging ports across 2,300 locations. This includes:

• Level 2 chargers (7–19 kW): 5,100 ports (ideal for overnight or workplace charging)
• DC Fast Chargers (50–350 kW): 700 ports (30–60 minute charge for 80% battery)

Key corridors like the 401, 400, and QEW now have fast-charging stations every 50–100 km, making long-distance travel feasible.

Future Plans: The 10,000-Station Target

The government aims to reach 10,000 public charging ports by 2026, with a focus on:

• Highway rest stops (e.g., ONroute stations)
• Urban centers (Toronto, Ottawa, Hamilton)
• Rural and Indigenous communities (e.g., Thunder Bay, Kenora)

The EVCP program has already funded stations at 700+ locations, including:

• Shopping malls (e.g., Square One, Yorkdale)
• Transit hubs (e.g., GO Stations, TTC lots)
• Universities and colleges (e.g., University of Toronto, Fanshawe College)

Charging Speed and Technology: What to Expect

New stations are increasingly equipped with ultra-fast 150–350 kW chargers, capable of adding 200+ km of range in 15 minutes. The government is also investing in smart charging systems that balance grid demand and reduce costs during off-peak hours.

Pro tip: Use apps like PlugShare or ChargeHub to locate nearby stations, check availability, and filter by charger type (e.g., CCS, CHAdeMO, Tesla).

Challenges and Criticisms: Is the Plan Sustainable?

Despite significant progress, Doug Ford’s electric car plans face criticism on several fronts. While the investments are impressive, questions remain about equity, environmental impact, and long-term viability.

Equity Concerns: Who Benefits?

EVs remain expensive. Even with incentives, the average new EV costs $60,000—out of reach for many Ontarians. Critics argue that current policies disproportionately benefit higher-income households who can afford new vehicles.

Data: In 2023, only 12% of Ontario’s new vehicle sales were EVs, with adoption concentrated in Toronto and the GTA. Rural and lower-income communities lag behind due to:

• Limited access to home charging (e.g., apartment dwellers)
• Fewer public charging options in remote areas
• Lack of affordable used EV options

Tip: The government is piloting a used EV incentive program in 2024, offering $2,000 for vehicles under $35,000. Monitor ontario.ca for updates.

Environmental Impact: Is It Truly Green?

EVs reduce tailpipe emissions, but their environmental footprint depends on how electricity is generated. Ontario’s grid is 90% clean (nuclear, hydro, wind), but manufacturing batteries still involves mining (lithium, cobalt, nickel) and high energy use.

The Windsor battery plant, for example, will require 200 MW of power—equivalent to a small city. Critics urge the province to ensure renewable energy sourcing and ethical mining practices.

Workforce Transition: Retraining vs. Job Loss

While EV production creates jobs, it also threatens traditional auto workers. A 2023 study by the Canadian Centre for Policy Alternatives found that EV assembly requires 30% fewer workers than internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles. The government’s retraining programs are a start, but long-term job security remains uncertain.

Data Snapshot: Ontario’s EV Progress at a Glance

Metric	2020	2023	2025 (Projected)
Public EV Chargers	2,800	5,800	8,500
EV Sales (% of Total)	3.5%	12%	25%
EV Manufacturing Jobs	1,200	3,500	7,000
Battery Production (GWh/year)	0	0	45
Government Investment (Cumulative)	$0	$3.5B	$6.2B
CO2 Reduction (vs. ICE fleet)	120,000 tonnes/year	850,000 tonnes/year	2.1M tonnes/year

Source: Ontario Ministry of Transportation, Natural Resources Canada, IEA

Conclusion: The Road Ahead for Ontario’s Electric Future

Doug Ford’s electric car plans represent one of the most ambitious industrial transformations in Ontario’s history. From the retooling of the Oakville plant to the Windsor battery gigafactory, the province is betting big on a green, electrified future. The strategy is not without flaws—equity gaps, environmental concerns, and workforce challenges remain—but the momentum is undeniable.

For consumers, the message is clear: now is the time to consider an EV. With federal rebates, HST savings, home charger incentives, and a rapidly expanding charging network, the total cost of ownership is more competitive than ever. For businesses, the opportunity to electrify fleets, access green financing, and tap into Ontario’s growing EV supply chain is immense.

Looking ahead, the success of Doug Ford’s vision will depend on three factors: inclusive policy design (ensuring all Ontarians benefit), sustainable practices (from mining to manufacturing), and long-term investment in innovation. If Ontario can master this balancing act, it won’t just be a follower in the EV revolution—it could become a global leader.

The road is long, but the destination is worth it: cleaner air, quieter cities, and a resilient, future-ready economy. As Ontario charges into the electric age, one thing is certain—Doug Ford’s electric car plans are more than a policy shift. They’re a declaration of where Ontario stands in the 21st century: plugged in, powered up, and ready to go.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are Doug Ford’s plans for electric cars in Ontario?

Doug Ford’s government has focused on expanding EV charging infrastructure and offering incentives for electric car purchases, aiming to make Ontario a leader in green transportation. The plan includes investments in battery manufacturing and partnerships with automakers to boost EV production.

How does the Doug Ford electric car incentive program work?

The Ontario government reinstated the Incentives for Zero-Emission Vehicles (iZEV) program in 2022, offering up to $5,000 rebates for eligible EV purchases. This initiative supports Doug Ford’s broader goal of reducing emissions and encouraging EV adoption.

Are there enough charging stations for electric cars under Ford’s plan?

Yes, the Ford government has committed to building 7,000 public EV charging stations by 2027, with funding from the federal and provincial governments. This expansion aims to eliminate range anxiety and support long-distance travel across Ontario.

Will Doug Ford’s policies impact used electric car prices?

By increasing new EV supply and offering purchase incentives, Ford’s policies may indirectly lower used electric car prices as more models enter the secondary market. This could make EVs more accessible to budget-conscious buyers.

How does the Doug Ford electric car strategy compare to other provinces?

Ontario’s strategy under Doug Ford emphasizes manufacturing and infrastructure, differing from Quebec’s higher consumer incentives or BC’s carbon tax approach. The province is positioning itself as a North American EV production hub.

What role do automakers play in Ford’s electric car vision?

Ford’s government has secured multi-billion dollar investments from automakers like GM, Ford, and Stellantis to retool Ontario plants for EV and battery production. These partnerships are central to creating jobs and meeting future EV demand.