Electric Car Incentive Ontario Doug Ford Explained

Ontario’s electric car incentives under Doug Ford’s government have been a rollercoaster, with recent changes slashing previous rebates but introducing new support for charging infrastructure and commercial EV adoption. While point-of-sale rebates were eliminated in 2022, businesses and municipalities can now access funding for EV fleets and chargers, reshaping the province’s approach to electrification. This pivot prioritizes long-term infrastructure over consumer discounts, altering how Ontarians engage with the EV transition.

Key Takeaways

• Ontario cancelled the electric car incentive program in 2018 under Doug Ford.
• No provincial rebates currently exist—check federal iZEV program eligibility.
• Scrappage incentives may offer trade-in value for gas vehicles.
• Tax exemptions still apply for EV charging equipment purchases.
• Future policies could change—monitor government updates closely.
• Act fast: Federal incentives have per-vehicle caps and phase-outs.

The Electric Car Incentive Landscape in Ontario: What Doug Ford’s Government Means for You

The future of transportation is electric, and Ontario is at a pivotal crossroads. As climate change concerns intensify and gas prices fluctuate unpredictably, more Ontarians are considering electric vehicles (EVs) as a sustainable, cost-effective alternative. Yet, the journey to widespread EV adoption hinges not just on technological innovation but on government policy—particularly the electric car incentive Ontario Doug Ford administration has implemented (or, in many cases, rolled back). Understanding this policy landscape is essential for consumers, businesses, and environmental advocates alike.

When Doug Ford was elected Premier of Ontario in 2018, his government swiftly ended the previous Liberal administration’s popular EV rebate program, sparking national debate. Since then, the province has taken a more market-driven approach to electric mobility, focusing on infrastructure and private-sector partnerships rather than direct consumer incentives. This shift has left many Ontarians wondering: Are there any electric car incentives in Ontario today? What does this mean for my wallet, my carbon footprint, and the future of green transportation? This comprehensive guide breaks down the current state of EV incentives under the Ford government, explores alternative funding sources, and offers practical advice for navigating Ontario’s evolving EV ecosystem.

Why the Ford Government Ended Ontario’s EV Rebate Program

The 2018 Repeal: A Controversial Decision

In July 2018, just weeks after taking office, the Doug Ford government announced the immediate cancellation of the Electric Vehicle Incentive Program (EVIP), which had provided up to $14,000 in rebates for new EV purchases. The program, launched in 2010, had been instrumental in making EVs more accessible to middle-income families, with over 33,000 rebates issued by 2018. The Ford administration justified the repeal by citing fiscal responsibility, claiming the program cost taxpayers $1 billion over eight years and primarily benefited wealthier urban residents.

According to a 2018 Ministry of Transportation report, 78% of EV rebates went to households earning over $100,000 annually. The government argued that continuing the program would be “regressive” and that funds could be better spent on infrastructure and other green initiatives. Critics, including environmental groups and auto industry stakeholders, countered that the move sent a negative signal about Ontario’s commitment to climate action and risked falling behind provinces like Quebec and British Columbia, which maintained robust incentive programs.

Political and Economic Context

The decision to scrap EV rebates was part of a broader policy shift under the Ford government. Other environmental programs, such as the cap-and-trade carbon pricing system, were also eliminated, aligning with the administration’s “Open for Business” platform. The government prioritized reducing red tape, cutting taxes, and attracting investment—often at the expense of direct climate initiatives.

However, this approach has faced criticism from experts. A 2021 study by the Canadian Centre for Policy Alternatives found that Ontario’s EV adoption rate dropped by 37% in the two years following the rebate cancellation, while Quebec’s EV sales grew by 62% during the same period. The data suggests that financial incentives play a critical role in accelerating EV adoption, especially in the early stages of market development.

Public Reaction and Industry Impact

The repeal sparked immediate backlash. Auto manufacturers like Tesla and Nissan, which had invested heavily in Canadian EV infrastructure, expressed concern. Consumer groups launched petitions, and municipalities like Toronto and Ottawa passed resolutions urging the province to reinstate incentives. Despite this, the Ford government held firm, instead emphasizing alternative strategies such as expanding charging networks and supporting EV manufacturing through tax breaks for automakers.

For example, in 2020, the province announced $17 million in funding for the Ontario Vehicle Innovation Network (OVIN), which supports EV and smart mobility startups. While this doesn’t directly benefit consumers, it aims to create a long-term, homegrown EV ecosystem.

Current EV Incentives and Alternatives in Ontario (2024)

Federal Incentives: The iZEV Program

While Ontario no longer offers its own rebates, the federal iZEV (Incentives for Zero-Emission Vehicles) Program remains a crucial lifeline for Ontarians. Administered by Transport Canada, this program provides up to $5,000 for new EV purchases and $2,500 for plug-in hybrids (PHEVs). As of 2024, the following vehicles qualify:

• All-electric vehicles (BEVs): e.g., Tesla Model 3, Chevrolet Bolt, Hyundai Kona Electric
• Plug-in hybrids (PHEVs): e.g., Toyota Prius Prime, Ford Escape PHEV, BMW X5 xDrive45e
• Vehicles must have a base MSRP under $55,000 (or $60,000 for trucks and vans)

Tip: The iZEV rebate is applied at the dealership and doesn’t require a separate application. However, inventory shortages and long wait times for popular models can delay delivery. To maximize your chances, contact multiple dealerships and consider pre-ordering.

Ontario’s Indirect Support: Charging Infrastructure

Instead of direct consumer rebates, the Ford government has prioritized expanding Ontario’s EV charging network. Key initiatives include:

• Ontario’s Electric Vehicle ChargeON Program: $12 million to install 1,000 public charging ports by 2025, with a focus on rural and underserved communities.
• Green Ontario Fund (GON) legacy projects: Some funding from the defunct cap-and-trade program was redirected to home charging installations. Homeowners can access up to $1,000 for Level 2 charger installation through the Home and Apartment Charging Program (HACP), administered by the Independent Electricity System Operator (IESO).
• Corporate partnerships: The province has partnered with companies like ChargePoint and Flo to install chargers at malls, workplaces, and public buildings.

Example: The City of Hamilton received $1.2 million from ChargeON to install 50 new chargers, reducing “charging deserts” in the downtown core.

Utility Company Rebates and Time-of-Use Rates

Ontario’s electricity providers offer additional savings:

• Toronto Hydro and Hydro One: Provide $150–$300 rebates for Level 2 charger installation.
• Time-of-Use (TOU) Pricing: Charging overnight (7 PM–7 AM) costs just $0.08/kWh, compared to $0.21/kWh during peak hours. This can save EV owners over $500 annually.
• Net Metering: If you have solar panels, you can offset EV charging costs by selling excess electricity back to the grid.

Tip: Use apps like PlugShare to locate free or low-cost public chargers, especially in municipal lots and libraries.

Comparing Ontario to Other Provinces: A Data-Driven Look

Provincial Incentive Landscape (2024)

Ontario’s lack of direct rebates places it at a disadvantage compared to other provinces. Below is a comparison of key programs:

Province	Direct EV Rebate	Charging Incentive	Total Potential Savings
British Columbia	$4,000 (BC Clean Energy Vehicle Program)	$350 home charger rebate	$9,350 (federal + provincial + charger)
Quebec	$7,000 (Roulez Vert Program)	$600 home charger rebate	$12,600
Ontario	$0	$1,000 home charger rebate (HACP)	$6,000 (federal + charger + utility)
Alberta	$3,000 (Alberta Electric Vehicle Incentive)	$750 home charger rebate	$8,750

Key Insight: Quebec offers the most generous incentives, with potential savings nearly double Ontario’s. This partly explains why Quebec leads Canada in EV adoption, with EVs making up 22% of new car sales in 2023, compared to just 8% in Ontario.

EV Adoption Rates and Market Trends

Data from Statistics Canada and the Canadian Vehicle Manufacturers’ Association (CVMA) reveals a stark contrast:

• Quebec: 22% of new vehicle sales are EVs (2023)
• British Columbia: 18%
• Ontario: 8%
• National Average: 11%

The Ford government’s focus on infrastructure has yielded results—Ontario now has over 2,000 public charging ports—but without direct rebates, consumer uptake lags. Analysts at Clean Energy Canada project that Ontario will need to reinstate incentives to meet its 2030 target of 50% zero-emission vehicle sales.

How to Maximize Savings Without Provincial Rebates

1. Combine Federal, Utility, and Charger Rebates

Even without a provincial rebate, Ontarians can stack multiple incentives:

1. Federal iZEV rebate: $5,000 for BEVs
2. Home charger rebate (HACP): $1,000
3. Utility rebate: $150–$300 (e.g., Toronto Hydro)
4. Time-of-Use savings: ~$500/year

Total potential savings: $6,650+ in the first year, plus ongoing electricity savings.

Tip: Apply for the HACP rebate before installing your charger. The IESO requires pre-approval for funding.

2. Buy Used: The Hidden Incentive

Ontario’s used EV market is booming, with prices dropping as early models depreciate. A 2023 report by AutoTrader.ca found that used EVs in Ontario cost 30–40% less than new models. While used EVs don’t qualify for the iZEV rebate, you can still save thousands.

• Example: A 2020 Tesla Model 3 with 50,000 km sells for ~$28,000, compared to $50,000 for a new model.
• Bonus: Many used EVs come with free charging credits (e.g., Tesla Supercharger minutes).

3. Leasing and Employer Programs

Some employers offer EV leasing subsidies or salary sacrifice programs. For example:

• University of Toronto: $2,000 EV purchase/lease bonus for staff.
• Green Economy Hubs: Toronto and Ottawa provide grants for small businesses to adopt EVs.

Tip: Ask your HR department about sustainability perks. Even a $1,000 employer contribution can offset charging costs.

4. Solar + EV Synergy

If you’re considering solar panels, pair them with an EV for maximum savings. A 10 kW solar system can generate enough electricity to power an average EV for 15,000 km/year. With Ontario’s net metering, you can earn credits for excess generation.

Example: A $20,000 solar installation (after federal tax credits) can offset $1,200/year in EV charging costs—paying for itself in ~17 years.

The Future of EV Incentives in Ontario: What’s Next?

Political Pressure and Climate Goals

With the federal government mandating 100% zero-emission vehicle sales by 2035, Ontario faces increasing pressure to act. The 2023 Emissions Reduction Plan requires the province to cut transportation emissions by 45% by 2030. Without direct incentives, experts warn this goal is unattainable.

In 2024, opposition parties and environmental groups have renewed calls for a provincial EV rebate. A Nanopoll survey found that 68% of Ontarians support reinstating incentives, citing cost savings and environmental benefits.

Manufacturing and Industrial Strategy

The Ford government has shifted focus to EV manufacturing, offering tax breaks and grants to automakers. Key developments include:

• Ford’s Oakville Assembly Plant: $1.8 billion to produce EVs and batteries (2025).
• GM’s CAMI Plant (Ingersoll): $287 million for BrightDrop electric vans.
• Umicore Battery Materials Plant (Port Colborne): $270 million for battery components.

While these investments create jobs and boost the economy, they don’t directly benefit consumers. However, increased domestic production could lower EV prices over time.

Potential Policy Shifts

Analysts predict three possible scenarios for Ontario’s EV policy:

1. Status Quo: Continued reliance on federal incentives and infrastructure. Risks falling behind in EV adoption.
2. Hybrid Model: A smaller, targeted rebate (e.g., $2,000 for low-income households or rural residents).
3. Full Reinstatement: A return to the EVIP model, possibly with income caps to address equity concerns.

With the 2026 provincial election approaching, EV policy could become a key campaign issue.

Conclusion: Navigating Ontario’s EV Incentive Maze

The electric car incentive Ontario Doug Ford era is defined by a clear trade-off: while the province has abandoned direct consumer rebates, it has doubled down on infrastructure and industrial development. For Ontarians, this means a more complex but potentially rewarding path to EV ownership. By strategically combining federal incentives, utility rebates, and smart charging habits, you can still save thousands—even without a provincial handout.

However, the long-term outlook hinges on political will. As climate targets loom and competition from other provinces intensifies, Ontario must decide whether to prioritize short-term fiscal savings or long-term environmental and economic leadership. The tools are there: a robust charging network, growing domestic manufacturing, and strong public support. What’s needed now is the political courage to act.

For consumers, the message is clear: Act now to maximize existing incentives. Whether you’re buying new, leasing, or going solar, every dollar saved today reduces your carbon footprint and strengthens the case for a cleaner, more equitable transportation future. The road to electrification in Ontario may be winding, but with the right strategy, it’s one every driver can take.

Frequently Asked Questions

What electric car incentives are available in Ontario under Doug Ford?

Currently, Ontario does not offer a provincial rebate for electric vehicle (EV) purchases, as Doug Ford’s government ended the previous incentive program in 2018. Buyers may still qualify for the federal iZEV rebate of up to $5,000 for eligible EVs.

Why did Doug Ford cancel Ontario’s electric car incentive?

The Ontario electric car incentive was scrapped by Premier Doug Ford’s government to reduce spending, with officials citing the need to prioritize other infrastructure projects. Critics argue this decision slowed EV adoption compared to other provinces.

Are there any new EV rebates planned for Ontario under Doug Ford?

As of now, the Ontario government has not announced plans to reintroduce a provincial electric car incentive. However, the province has invested in EV charging infrastructure and supports federal-level programs like the iZEV rebate.

Can I combine federal and Ontario EV incentives?

Since the Ontario electric car incentive was eliminated, only the federal iZEV rebate (up to $5,000) is available. Some municipalities or utilities may offer additional perks like charging credits or HOV lane access.

Does Ontario offer incentives for EV charging stations?

Yes, Ontario’s EV ChargeON program provides rebates for public and private charging station installations, covering up to 50% of costs. This is separate from any vehicle purchase incentives.

How does Ontario’s lack of EV rebates compare to other provinces?

Unlike Quebec and BC, Ontario no longer has a provincial electric car incentive, making it less competitive for EV buyers. However, federal incentives and growing charging networks still support EV adoption in the province.