Doug Ford Electric Cars What You Need to Know in 2024

Doug Ford’s 2024 electric vehicle push in Ontario is accelerating with expanded incentives, charging infrastructure, and support for local EV manufacturing. The province is investing heavily to make electric cars more affordable and accessible, aligning with federal goals while addressing key consumer concerns like range anxiety and upfront costs. With new rebates and a growing network of fast-charging stations, Ontario is positioning itself as a leader in Canada’s EV transition.

Key Takeaways

• Doug Ford supports EV growth: Ontario is expanding charging infrastructure and incentives for electric cars.
• 2024 rebates available: Check for updated provincial and federal EV purchase incentives before buying.
• Charging stations expanding: Fast-charging networks are growing along major highways and urban centers.
• Local EV manufacturing: Ontario is attracting investments in battery and EV production plants.
• Home charging grants: Homeowners can access rebates for Level 2 charger installations.
• Future-proof your commute: EVs align with Ontario’s low-emission transportation goals and long-term savings.

The Doug Ford Electric Car Revolution: What’s Happening in 2024?

As the world shifts toward sustainable transportation, the conversation around electric vehicles (EVs) in Canada has never been more dynamic—and Ontario is at the heart of this transformation. Under the leadership of Premier Doug Ford, the province has taken a bold and sometimes controversial approach to electric cars, blending aggressive industrial strategy with shifting consumer incentives. For Ontarians and Canadians alike, understanding Doug Ford’s electric car agenda in 2024 is crucial not only for potential EV buyers but also for businesses, policymakers, and environmental advocates.

The narrative around Doug Ford electric cars is no longer just about environmental responsibility—it’s about economic revitalization, job creation, and technological sovereignty. With global automakers pivoting to electric platforms, Ontario has positioned itself as a North American EV manufacturing hub. From battery plants to EV assembly lines, the province is betting big on the future of clean mobility. But what does this mean for you? Whether you’re considering your first electric vehicle, a fleet manager evaluating transition options, or simply curious about the political and economic forces shaping Ontario’s green future, this guide breaks down everything you need to know about Doug Ford electric cars in 2024.

Doug Ford’s EV Strategy: From Criticism to Commitment

Reversing Course: The Shift from 2018 to 2024

When Doug Ford took office in 2018, his government made headlines by canceling Ontario’s cap-and-trade program and scrapping the province’s electric vehicle incentives—moves widely criticized as anti-environmental. At the time, the Doug Ford electric car policy appeared to be one of resistance, with the premier framing EVs as a luxury for the elite rather than a necessity for the masses. Fast forward to 2024, and the narrative has dramatically shifted. Today, Ford’s government is investing billions into EV infrastructure, attracting global automakers, and positioning Ontario as a leader in the North American electric vehicle supply chain.

This reversal wasn’t accidental. International pressure, rising consumer demand for EVs, and strategic partnerships with the federal government and private sector forced a recalibration. In 2021, the Ford government announced a $2 billion investment in the automotive sector, specifically targeting EV and battery production. By 2023, Ontario had secured over $28 billion in EV and battery-related investments—more than any other Canadian province. The Doug Ford electric cars strategy had evolved from opposition to orchestration.

Key Drivers Behind the Pivot

Several factors accelerated Ontario’s embrace of electric vehicles:

• Global Competition: With the U.S. passing the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) offering massive tax credits for EVs assembled in North America, Ontario risked falling behind without a competitive response.
• Federal Collaboration: The federal government’s $15 billion in EV incentives and infrastructure funding created a powerful incentive for Ontario to align its policies.
• Automaker Pressure: Companies like Ford Motor Company, General Motors, and Stellantis demanded government support to justify retooling Ontario plants for electric production.
• Public Opinion: A 2023 Abacus Data survey found that 68% of Ontarians support government investment in EV manufacturing, up from 42% in 2019.

This convergence of economic, political, and social forces transformed Ontario’s approach. The Doug Ford electric car agenda is now less about ideology and more about industrial survival and growth.

Major EV and Battery Manufacturing Projects in Ontario (2024)

Stellantis-LGES Battery Plant in Windsor

One of the crown jewels of Ontario’s EV strategy is the $5 billion Stellantis-LG Energy Solution (LGES) battery plant in Windsor, scheduled to begin production in late 2024. This 4.2 million-square-foot facility will produce 45 gigawatt-hours (GWh) of battery cells annually—enough to power approximately 500,000 electric vehicles per year. The plant is expected to create 2,500 direct jobs and over 10,000 indirect jobs in the region.

The project received $1 billion in provincial funding and $1 billion from the federal government, showcasing the collaborative model that defines Ontario’s current EV policy. Once operational, the Windsor plant will supply batteries to Stellantis’s Brampton and Windsor assembly plants, which are being retooled to produce electric versions of the Chrysler Pacifica and other models.

Ford Motor Company’s Oakville Transformation

Ford’s historic Oakville Assembly Complex is undergoing a $1.8 billion transformation into an electric vehicle and battery pack manufacturing hub. Announced in 2020 and accelerated in 2023, the “Oakville Electric Vehicle Complex” will produce five new EV models, starting with a mid-size electric SUV in 2025. The plant will also include a battery pack assembly line, reducing dependency on foreign supply chains.

This project is a direct response to the IRA’s “Made in North America” requirements, ensuring that Ford EVs built in Ontario qualify for U.S. tax credits. The provincial government contributed $295 million, while the federal government added $500 million. The Doug Ford electric cars initiative here is not just about vehicles—it’s about securing Ontario’s place in the integrated North American EV market.

General Motors’ CAMI Assembly Plant (Ingersoll)

GM’s CAMI plant in Ingersoll has already begun producing the BrightDrop Zevo 600 and Zevo 400 electric delivery vans, marking a major shift in Ontario’s commercial EV landscape. The plant received a $259 million investment from the provincial government to support its transition from internal combustion engine (ICE) to EV production.

With Amazon as a key customer—ordering 1,500 BrightDrop vans in 2023—the Ingersoll facility is a model for how legacy automakers can pivot successfully. The success of this project underscores the importance of government support in de-risking large-scale industrial transitions, a hallmark of the Doug Ford electric car strategy.

Emerging Players: Umicore and Other Supply Chain Investments

Beyond vehicle assembly, Ontario is building out its EV supply chain. Umicore, a Belgian battery materials company, is investing $1.5 billion to build a cathode active materials (CAM) plant in Loyalist Township near Kingston. This facility, set to open in 2025, will produce materials for lithium-ion batteries, reducing reliance on Asian suppliers.

Other investments include:

• Electra Battery Materials: $125 million for a cobalt refinery in Temiskaming Shores
• Magna International: Expanding EV powertrain production in Brampton
• Linamar Corporation: Developing battery enclosures and electric motor components

These projects illustrate that the Doug Ford electric cars vision extends beyond vehicles to the entire ecosystem of EV production.

Ontario’s EV Incentives and Consumer Support in 2024

Federal vs. Provincial Incentives: The Current Landscape

While the Ontario government eliminated its own point-of-sale EV rebates in 2018, the federal iZEV program remains active and accessible to Ontarians. As of 2024, eligible buyers can receive up to $5,000 off the purchase of a new battery-electric or hydrogen fuel cell vehicle, and up to $2,500 for plug-in hybrids (PHEVs), provided the vehicle meets price and battery capacity criteria.

However, the absence of a provincial rebate puts Ontario behind Quebec and British Columbia, both of which offer additional incentives (up to $7,000 and $4,000, respectively). This gap has sparked criticism from environmental groups and EV advocates. In response, the Ford government has focused on non-cash incentives, such as:

• HOV Lane Access: EVs with green license plates can use high-occupancy vehicle (HOV) lanes, even with one occupant.
• Free Public Charging: Limited-time programs in some municipalities (e.g., Ottawa, Kitchener) offer free charging at public stations.
• Exemptions from Road Taxes: Some EVs are exempt from the provincial road tax, saving owners hundreds per year.

Charging Infrastructure: Where Ontario Stands

One of the biggest hurdles to EV adoption is range anxiety, but Ontario is making progress. The province has over 5,000 public charging ports as of 2024, with plans to reach 10,000 by 2026. Key initiatives include:

• Hydro One’s “ChargeON” Program: $90 million to install 1,700 fast chargers in rural and remote communities.
• Ontario’s EV Charging Fund: $115 million to support charging at workplaces, multi-unit residential buildings, and public spaces.
• Partnerships with FLO and ChargePoint: Major charging networks are expanding rapidly, with FLO alone adding 300 new stations in 2023.

Tip for EV Buyers: Use the PlugShare or ChargeHub apps to locate nearby chargers and check availability in real time. Many stations now offer app-based payment and reservation features.

Home Charging and Rebates

While Ontario doesn’t offer a direct home charger rebate, the federal Greener Homes Grant provides up to $5,000 for energy-efficient home upgrades, including EV charger installation. Combined with utility-specific programs (e.g., Toronto Hydro’s $250 rebate), Ontarians can save significantly.

Pro Tip: Install a Level 2 charger (240V) instead of relying on Level 1 (120V). A Level 2 charger can fully charge most EVs in 4–8 hours, compared to 12–20 hours for Level 1. Most electricians charge $800–$1,500 for installation, but the long-term convenience is worth it.

The Role of the Federal Government and Cross-Border Dynamics

IRA and Its Impact on Ontario’s EV Ambitions

The U.S. Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) has been a double-edged sword for Ontario. On one hand, it incentivizes North American EV production, which benefits Ontario’s automakers. On the other, it imposes strict requirements: to qualify for the full $7,500 U.S. tax credit, EVs must be assembled in North America, and a growing percentage of battery components and critical minerals must come from the U.S. or its free-trade partners.

This has pushed Ontario to accelerate its domestic supply chain development. The Doug Ford electric cars strategy now includes aggressive outreach to mining companies for nickel, cobalt, and lithium—key materials for batteries. In 2023, the province launched a “Critical Minerals Strategy” to streamline permitting and attract investment.

Canada-U.S. Collaboration: The EV Corridor

Ontario is part of a broader Canada-U.S. EV Corridor initiative, which includes joint funding for charging infrastructure, research, and workforce training. The corridor aims to create a seamless EV experience across borders, with standardized charging networks and cross-border battery recycling programs.

In 2024, Ontario and Michigan signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to strengthen EV supply chain cooperation, including joint efforts to source critical minerals and develop battery recycling technologies. This partnership is critical for maintaining Ontario’s competitiveness in the IRA-driven North American market.

Challenges: Trade Tensions and Labor Issues

Despite progress, challenges remain. The U.S. has raised concerns about “leakage”—foreign companies using Canadian plants to access U.S. incentives without sufficient local content. Additionally, labor unions are demanding guarantees that EV jobs pay as well as traditional auto jobs. The 2023 UAW strike in the U.S. highlighted these tensions, and similar pressures could arise in Ontario as EV production scales up.

The Ford government has responded by including labor standards in its EV investment agreements, such as requiring prevailing wages and union neutrality clauses. These measures aim to ensure that the Doug Ford electric cars transition benefits workers as well as corporations.

Environmental and Economic Impact: Is the Investment Paying Off?

Carbon Emissions and Air Quality

Transportation accounts for about 35% of Ontario’s greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, with light-duty vehicles making up a significant portion. By accelerating EV adoption, Ontario aims to reduce transport emissions by 25% by 2030 (from 2019 levels). A 2023 study by the Pembina Institute found that if Ontario reaches 30% EV sales by 2030, it could avoid 5.2 million tonnes of CO2 annually—equivalent to taking 1.1 million cars off the road.

Beyond emissions, EVs improve urban air quality. A 2022 Toronto Public Health report linked vehicle exhaust to over 1,000 premature deaths per year. Widespread EV adoption could significantly reduce nitrogen oxides (NOx) and particulate matter, benefiting public health.

Job Creation and Economic Growth

The Doug Ford electric car investments are projected to create over 30,000 new jobs by 2030. But the benefits extend beyond manufacturing. New jobs are emerging in:

• EV charging network operations
• Battery recycling and second-life applications
• Software and data analytics for connected vehicles
• Autonomous driving research (e.g., at the University of Waterloo and McMaster)

Ontario’s GDP could grow by an estimated $7.5 billion annually from the EV sector by 2030, according to a 2023 report by the Conference Board of Canada.

Cost-Benefit Analysis: A Data Snapshot

Metric	Value (2024)	Projected (2030)
EV Sales in Ontario	85,000 vehicles/year	300,000 vehicles/year
Public Charging Ports	5,200	10,000+
EV Manufacturing Jobs	12,500	30,000+
Provincial EV Investment	$3.2 billion	$6 billion (est.)
Average EV Price (after incentives)	$48,000	$38,000 (est.)
GHG Reduction from EVs	1.1 million tonnes/year	5.2 million tonnes/year

This data shows that while Ontario started late, its aggressive catch-up strategy is yielding measurable results. The Doug Ford electric cars initiative is no longer just a political slogan—it’s a growing economic engine.

What’s Next? The Future of EVs in Ontario

The story of Doug Ford electric cars in 2024 is one of transformation, ambition, and calculated risk. From dismantling environmental programs in 2018 to leading North America in EV manufacturing investments by 2024, the Ford government has rewritten its legacy. But the journey is far from over.

Looking ahead, key priorities include:

• Restoring Provincial Rebates: Public pressure may force Ontario to reintroduce consumer incentives to match Quebec and B.C.
• Expanding Rural Charging: Ensuring equitable access across northern and remote communities.
• Investing in Battery Recycling: Closing the loop on the EV lifecycle to reduce waste and mining impacts.
• Supporting Indigenous and Community-Led EV Projects: Ensuring the transition is inclusive and just.

For consumers, the message is clear: 2024 is an excellent time to consider an electric vehicle in Ontario. With falling prices, expanding infrastructure, and a growing selection of models—from compact hatchbacks to full-size SUVs and trucks—the barriers to entry have never been lower.

The Doug Ford electric car era may have begun with controversy, but it has evolved into a powerful force for innovation, sustainability, and economic renewal. As Ontario continues to build its EV ecosystem, one thing is certain: the future of transportation in the province is electric—and the momentum is unstoppable.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Doug Ford’s plan for electric cars in Ontario?

Doug Ford’s government has focused on supporting EV manufacturing in Ontario while winding down consumer purchase incentives. The 2024 strategy emphasizes building battery plants and attracting automakers to create an EV supply chain ecosystem.

Are there any Doug Ford electric car rebates in 2024?

No, the provincial EV rebate program (up to $4,000) was discontinued in 2022. However, the federal iZEV program still offers incentives up to $5,000 for qualifying electric vehicles.

How is Ontario’s charging network expanding under Doug Ford?

The government has committed $91 million to expand EV charging stations across highways and urban centers. This includes partnerships with private companies to install fast-chargers at key locations by 2025.

Which automakers is Doug Ford attracting for electric car production?

Ontario has secured major investments from Ford, GM, Stellantis, and Volkswagen for EV and battery manufacturing. These projects aim to make Ontario a North American EV production hub.

Does Doug Ford support phasing out gas-powered vehicles?

Unlike some provinces, Ontario isn’t mandating a gas-car phase-out date. The focus remains on incentivizing EV production rather than regulating consumer vehicle choices.

How does Ontario’s electricity grid handle more electric cars?

The government states Ontario’s clean electricity grid (mostly nuclear/hydro) can support mass EV adoption. New investments in grid modernization are planned to accommodate rising demand.