With Canada's commitment to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050 and the rise of environmental concerns due to climate change, more and more drivers are turning toward electric vehicles.
But is buying an electric vehicle really an eco-friendly, economical and accessible solution? Here's our answer.
Unlike vehicles with internal combustion engines, electric vehicles don't produce tailpipe emissions when they're running, which considerably reduces their carbon footprint.
The biggest environmental impacts of electric vehicles only occur during the manufacturing process, while the ecological impacts of traditional internal combustion engine vehicles are mostly linked to their use.
Throughout their life cycle, from the extraction of raw materials, the manufacturing of the parts to recycling, electric vehicles demonstrate larger environmental benefits than their gas counterparts:
"Electric vehicles are even more eco-friendly in Québec, where 99% of electricity comes from a clean, renewable source: the power of water." (Hydro-Québec)
Although an electric vehicle can sometimes turn out to be more expensive on purchase than a gas vehicle, on the long term it allows you to reduce your total expenses from 10% to 20%.
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Budget Savings |
Impacts on Your Pocket |
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Savings at the pump |
The most significant savings linked to using an electric vehicle is the energy costs, which are generally reduced by more than 75% in comparison with a gas vehicle. For example, with a fuel price at $1.75/L and a gas car consuming 9.5 L/100 km, 1,000 km of driving will cost you $166.25. In contrast, an electric car consuming 20 kWh/100 km will only cost you $20 for the same distance. |
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Incentive programs |
In Québec, electric car owners can receive government incentives of up to $12,000 when buying or renting an electric vehicle, that is, up to $5,000 from the federal and up to $7,000 from the provincial. |
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Less maintenance |
Generally, electric vehicles require less maintenance than gas vehicles, thanks to having fewer moving parts and an electric powertrain. You won't need to change the oil, timing belt or spark plugs anymore. |
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Ferries and some toll booths are free of charge |
Drivers at the wheel of a vehicle with a green licence plate issued by the Société de l'assurance automobile du Québec can benefit from free access to the bridges on Highway 25 and 30 and the ferries of the Société des traversiers du Québec. |
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Advantageous insurance offers |
Some insurance companies offer discounts on car insurance for some electric vehicle models. |
Whether with the 9,200 public charging stations in Québec, or a power outlet at home, charging an all-electric vehicle is simple and efficient. You can simply use one of the 3 types of charging stations available.
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Types of Charging Stations |
Use |
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Level 1 Charger |
It uses a standard 120-volt home outlet. Ideal for slow charging at home. |
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Level 2 Charger |
It uses a 240-volt outlet or connection. Ideal for fast charging in public charging stations. It can also be installed at home. |
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Fast Charger |
It uses direct current. Ideal for very fast charging on main roads and in urban areas. |
At Acura, we believe that vehicle electrification is the most promising and viable solution to build a greener future for generations to come.
In our ongoing quest for innovation, we developed the all-electric ZDX and ZDX Type S, demonstrating our commitment toward sustainable and environmentally friendly mobility.
The all-new 2024 Acura ZDX SUV combines high-performance with the upscale practicality of a simplified drivetrain:
Come and visit Acura Laval, your Acura dealership close to Sainte-Thérèse and a few minutes only from Montreal. An experienced team will be happy to answer all your questions!
