The Globe and Mail reports in its Monday, July 28, edition that as Canada aims to protect its economic future and diversify trade amid rising U.S. protectionism, it is concerning that Ottawa is mulling rolling back national electric vehicle sales targets. The Globe's guest columnists Chris Severson and Adam Thorn write that Ottawa is working with automakers to determine the appropriate level for zero-emission vehicle sales.
However, opposition to these targets seems to prioritize the short-term profits of U.S.-owned firms over consumer and industry interests in Canada. It is essential that Canada remains committed as the global EV race intensifies. The finalized EV Availability Standard aims for at least 20 per cent of new vehicles to be zero emissions by 2026, increasing annually until 2035. The guest columnists say this policy is essential for building a robust EV supply chain. Canada's auto industry has benefited from consumer incentives, tariffs and subsidies, yet it opposes a new policy aimed at providing public benefit. Canada should prioritize decisions that benefit Canadians rather than adopt the protectionist Trump auto strategy, which aims to shift automaking jobs from Canada to the U.S.
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