Charge News Canada

Grizzl-E Launches Free EV Charger Trade-In Program with Cashback Rewards

Wed, 11 Nov 2026 21:00:00 GMT

Canadian EV charger maker United Chargers has launched a free trade-in program that lets homeowners swap an eligible Level 2 charger from virtually any brand for a new Grizzl-E Essential at no upfront cost, according to the company's announcement on November 11. The promotion also enrolls participants in the Grizzl-E Club cashback program, earning 10 to 15 cents per kilowatt-hour for home charging.

How the trade-in works

Homeowners apply through the Grizzl-E Club website and receive the new charger before returning the old one. United Chargers provides a prepaid shipping label, and customers have 30 days to send back their previous unit. A refundable security deposit is required at order time but is returned once the old charger is received and approved.

Eligibility and requirements

The existing charger must still be functional
It must support at least 32 amps and operate at 208–240 volts
Chargers with damaged cables do not qualify
The offer is available to first-time Grizzl-E Club members only; existing Club members and commercial customers are excluded
Almost any brand of Level 2 charger is accepted, including older Grizzl-E Classic and Smart models

Cashback economics

Once the trade-in is processed, members earn rewards starting at 10¢ per kWh, scaling up to 15¢ per kWh including a 5¢ bonus tier. For a typical Canadian household charging 1,200 kWh per month, that translates to roughly C$120–180 in monthly credits, depending on the tier reached. United Chargers, based in Ontario, first introduced the Grizzl-E Club in 2025 as a bundled hardware-plus-rewards model.

Why it matters for Canadian EV owners

The promotion runs through December 31, 2026. With federal and provincial EV rebates (the federal iZEV program and Quebec's bonus) reducing the sticker price of the vehicle, the charger has become the next cost centre for new EV owners. A free upgrade to a 32-amp, 240-volt unit plus ongoing cashback effectively offsets the C$500–C$800 typical installation cost of a Level 2 home charger. For owners still on a 240-volt Level 1 wall outlet, the trade-in removes the last barrier to a proper home charging setup ahead of the winter driving season.

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Finland Becomes 11th European Country to Approve Tesla Assisted Driving

Wed, 11 Nov 2026 20:30:00 GMT

Finland's Transport and Communications Agency (Traficom) approved Tesla Assisted Driving (TAD), formerly known as Full Self-Driving (FSD), on Tuesday, making Finland the 11th European country to recognise the system. Tesla Europe confirmed the decision on X and said rollout to Finnish customers begins soon.

The 11 European countries so far

Finland joins the Netherlands, Estonia, Denmark, Belgium, Slovenia, Czechia, Croatia, Slovakia, Latvia, and Lithuania (which rolled out in May 2026) in granting national-level approval for the driver-assistance system. EU-wide approval still requires a successful vote by the European Commission's Technical Committee for Motor Vehicles (TCMV), after which the regulation takes approximately three weeks to enter into force. A vote is expected in December at the earliest, having been pushed back from its original October 6 schedule.

Key conditions imposed by Traficom

Speeding restriction: Drivers can no longer set the system to hold a speed 50% above the posted limit on an ongoing basis. Any setting that permits speeding reverts to the posted limit when the vehicle is restarted.
Winter-weather caveat: Traficom warned that snow, slush, or dirt covering the vehicle's cameras could degrade performance. "The system's design and approval assessment have taken winter conditions into account, but its operation may be subject to various limitations if the cameras become covered," said Traficom Senior Specialist Jukka Juhola.

Why Finland approved ahead of the EU process

Traficom said it moved ahead of the broader EU approval process because Tesla had already made the changes requested by regulators across multiple member states. The national-level approach mirrors the path taken by the Netherlands and Lithuania, which both cleared TAD before the EU-wide TCMV vote concluded.

What this means for Canadian and other North American drivers

TAD availability in Europe does not directly affect North American markets, where Tesla has offered FSD (now rebranded) as a paid subscription since 2023. However, the regulatory template established in Finland—particularly the speeding cap and camera-obstruction disclosure—could influence Transport Canada's framework if a formal approval process opens for driver-assistance systems on Canadian roads. Canadian Tesla owners should monitor the national transport ministry for any parallel regulatory review.

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Tesla Opens Canada's Northernmost Supercharger in Wandering River, Alberta

Wed, 11 Nov 2026 20:00:00 GMT

Tesla's newest Supercharger in Wandering River, Alberta, is now open, taking over from Grande Prairie as the northernmost location in the company's Canadian charging network. The eight-stall V4 station, located at the Shell on 101 1st Street just off Highway 63, came online Tuesday after a construction process that was first spotted more than a year ago.

Station details and pricing

Location: Shell, 101 1st Street, Wandering River, AB (just off Highway 63)
Stalls: 8 V4 Superchargers
Pricing: $0.50/kWh for Tesla drivers; $0.71/kWh for non-Tesla EVs (NACS adapter available)
Connector: V4 (NACS) with CCS adapter for non-Tesla vehicles

Closing the Highway 63 gap

Wandering River sits roughly 400 km north of Edmonton along Highway 63, the primary route to the oil-sands communities of Fort McMurray and Athabasca. Before this station opened, northern Alberta EV drivers faced a significant charging gap between the Grande Prairie Supercharger and the next major hub. With Wandering River now live and a Fort McMurray Supercharger already under construction (work began in July), Tesla is addressing what has been one of the most requested routes on its Canadian Supercharger map.

What's next for northern Alberta

Once the Fort McMurray station opens, Wandering River will hand over its "northernmost" title. Tesla has not announced a specific opening date for Fort McMurray but the construction was well advanced as of mid-2026. Combined with the recently completed Lethbridge Supercharger in southern Alberta, the province now has three active or near-active Supercharger sites spanning most of the province's north-south corridor.

For drivers planning a cross-Canada road trip or an oil-sands commute, the Wandering River station eliminates the longest single-leg uncharged segment in western Canada's Supercharger network.

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BYD Reaches 19 Million NEV Production Milestone, Launches Tai 9 Reservations

Wed, 11 Nov 2026 18:00:00 GMT

BYD, the world's leading new energy vehicle (NEV) manufacturer, has announced it has reached a **19 million unit production milestone**. This achievement underscores the company's dominance in the global electric vehicle market and its rapid scaling of production capacity. Concurrently, BYD has opened reservations for the Fang Cheng Bao Tai 9, a new model aimed at capturing the premium SUV segment.

Production Milestone

The 19 millionth NEV rolling off the production line marks a significant step in BYD's trajectory since its electrification pivot. This volume places BYD far ahead of its global competitors in total electrified vehicle output. The company continues to expand its manufacturing footprint to meet surging demand in both domestic and export markets, particularly as European and Asian markets show increasing adoption rates.

Fang Cheng Bao Tai 9

Alongside the production milestone, BYD's Fang Cheng Bao brand has launched the reservation period for the Tai 9. This model is positioned as a high-end electric SUV, competing directly with established luxury brands in the premium segment. The launch of the Tai 9 signifies BYD's continued push upmarket, leveraging its vertical integration in battery technology and powertrain efficiency to offer competitive features at aggressive price points.

Implications for the Global Market

Supply Chain Scale: Reaching 19 million units demonstrates BYD's ability to manage complex global supply chains at an unprecedented scale.
Market Pressure: The sheer volume of production puts pressure on competitors like Tesla and traditional automakers to match BYD's cost structures and release cadence.
Premium Segment Entry: The Tai 9 launch indicates BYD is no longer just a volume leader but is actively competing for high-margin premium customers.

For Canadian and global investors, BYD's continued growth highlights the intense competition in the EV sector. While BYD does not currently sell directly in the Canadian market, its global production scale influences pricing and technology adoption across the industry.

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European Parliament Members Push for BYD Cybersecurity Investigation

Wed, 11 Nov 2026 18:00:00 GMT

A group of 14 members of the European Parliament (MEPs) has formally requested that the European Commission investigate potential cybersecurity risks associated with BYD vehicles. The inquiry focuses on data privacy, vehicle connectivity, and the potential for foreign state influence through connected car technologies.

The Security Concern

The letter from the MEPs highlights growing concerns about how data from connected vehicles is managed, stored, and transmitted. With BYD's rapid expansion in the European market, with over 280,000 cars sold in the first nine months of 2026, the volume of data being generated has raised alarms among policymakers. The core question is whether BYD's data infrastructure poses a security risk to European users or national interests.

BYD's Response

BYD has responded to the inquiries by stating that it adheres to strict data protection standards and that its European operations are compliant with local regulations. The company has emphasized that its data centers serving European customers are located within the EU to ensure compliance with GDPR and other data sovereignty laws. However, the Parliament members argue that a formal, independent assessment is necessary to verify these claims.

Regulatory Implications

If the European Commission proceeds with the investigation, it could lead to:

Stricter Data Localization Rules: Mandating that all vehicle data processed for EU citizens must be stored on EU soil.
Supply Chain Audits: Requiring third-party audits of software and hardware supply chains for Chinese-made EVs.
Market Access Restrictions: Potential limitations on BYD's ability to sell in certain sensitive sectors or government fleets if risks are confirmed.

This development mirrors similar scrutiny faced by other Chinese tech and auto companies in the West. For Canadian consumers, while this is an EU-specific regulatory action, it signals a global trend toward stricter cybersecurity standards for connected vehicles, which may eventually influence North American regulations as well.

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Rivian 2026.41 OTA Update Brings Waze Audio Alerts and Alternative Routes

Wed, 11 Nov 2026 18:00:00 GMT

Rivian has released its 2026.41 over-the-air (OTA) update, bringing a suite of navigation and user interface enhancements to its R1T and R1S vehicles. The most notable addition is the integration of Waze audio alerts, allowing drivers to receive real-time traffic and hazard information directly through the vehicle's audio system.

Key Features in 2026.41

Waze Audio Alerts: Drivers can now receive spoken alerts for accidents, police, and heavy traffic directly from Waze, reducing the need to look at the screen while driving.
Alternative Routes: The navigation system now offers more robust alternative route suggestions, helping drivers avoid congestion and optimize travel time more effectively.
UI Refinements: Various bug fixes and visual tweaks to the dashboard interface for smoother operation.

Why Waze Integration Matters

The integration of Waze data into Rivian's native navigation system is a significant step for the brand. By leveraging crowd-sourced data, Rivian can provide more dynamic and real-time traffic information than static mapping providers alone. This is particularly useful for Canadian drivers navigating seasonal road closures, construction zones, and winter weather disruptions.

How to Update

The 2026.41 update is being rolled out in stages. Owners can check for the update by navigating to Settings > Software > Update on their Rivian's display. As with most OTA updates, the vehicle must be parked, on, and have sufficient battery charge to complete the installation. The process typically takes 30-45 minutes.

For Canadian EV owners, this update further enhances the value proposition of Rivian vehicles by improving the daily driving experience with third-party data integration. It positions Rivian competitively against Tesla and other premium EV brands that have already integrated similar crowd-sourced navigation features.

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Stellantis Offers to Repay Brampton Funding as Plant Sale to Roshel Sparks Political Backlash

Wed, 11 Nov 2026 16:00:00 GMT

Stellantis has offered to voluntarily return government funding tied to its idle Brampton, Ontario assembly plant following a firestorm of political criticism over its decision to sell the facility to Canadian defence contractor Roshel. Prime Minister Mark Carney called the sale "a betrayal of the workers" and "a betrayal of the obligations to Canada" on Tuesday, escalating the dispute into a national policy issue.

The funding at stake

Ottawa pledged up to C$529 million in 2022 to support retooling at Stellantis' Brampton and Windsor plants. According to reporting, C$222 million was actually paid to Stellantis' Canadian operations between 2023 and 2025. Stellantis has offered to return the government support "received for Brampton Assembly's original retooling plan" but has not disclosed the exact amount it expects to repay.

Political fallout

PM Carney: Called the situation "unacceptable" and a violation of multiple government agreements.
Unifor President Lana Payne: Condemned the sale, saying Stellantis abandoned its commitments to workers. More than 2,000 employees were laid off when Brampton stopped production in 2023.
Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre: Criticized the government, calling for Industry Minister Mélanie Joly's dismissal and demanding return of taxpayer funding.

What happens next

Under the agreement announced Monday, Roshel plans to establish an advanced manufacturing centre at the Brampton site. However, its CEO has declined to assume responsibility for rehiring all former Stellantis employees. Industry Minister Joly will meet with Stellantis, Unifor, and provincial representatives in Toronto on Thursday. The proposed sale remains subject to government and regulatory conditions, with closing expected by the end of 2026.

For the Canadian EV ecosystem, the Brampton saga underscores the fragility of large-scale manufacturing commitments when global corporate strategy shifts. The plant had been earmarked for EV production as part of the federal retooling incentive, but Stellantis' broader strategic retreat — including a $26 billion charge on its EV strategy — left the facility idle. The fight over repayment of public funds will likely shape future government auto-investment policy and the conditions attached to future EV manufacturing deals in Ontario.

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Mercedes-Benz High-Power Charging Hits 100 Locations and One Million Sessions in North America

Wed, 11 Nov 2026 15:30:00 GMT

Mercedes-Benz High-Power Charging (HPC) has reached a major milestone in North America: 100 charging locations and more than one million charging sessions, three years after launching the network. The company announced the achievement on November 11, 2026.

Network scale

100 locations across 28 U.S. states and British Columbia (the only Canadian province currently operational)
934 charging ports installed
~205 megawatts of total charging capacity
1M+ charging sessions completed
245,000+ unique customers served
93% of Alpitronic stalls now offer native NACS connectors alongside CCS

Growth trajectory

The network started with just 5 locations and 32 charging ports in November 2023. By 2025 it had expanded to 63 locations, and 2026 brought it to 100. Mercedes-Benz was the first network to deploy 400 kW charging across its entire footprint, and it is now rolling out 600 kW ultra-fast chargers in select markets.

Canadian relevance

British Columbia is the only Canadian province with operational Mercedes-Benz HPC locations. The 93% NACS compatibility means most EVs sold in Canada can charge without an adapter. The network's expansion is part of a broader trend: J.D. Power's 2026 charging rankings placed IONNA, Mercedes-Benz, and Rivian in the top three, ending Tesla's three-year run at #1. Across North America, public DC fast-charging ports grew 102% between 2023 and September 2026, outpacing the 73% growth in charging stations.

For Canadian EV owners, the milestone signals that non-Tesla charging options are maturing quickly — particularly in BC, where Mercedes-Benz HPC is now a viable alternative for long-distance trips. The company has not announced plans to expand into other Canadian provinces.

What's next

Mercedes-Benz says it will continue expanding the network into 2027, with a focus on high-traffic corridors and urban areas. The 600 kW chargers, already deployed in select US markets, are expected to reach Canadian sites as well. The company has also partnered with Starbucks for co-located charging in select West Coast locations, combining charging with retail dwell time.

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Unplugged Performance offers to take over Cybertruck production from Tesla

Wed, 11 Nov 2026 15:00:00 GMT

Unplugged Performance, the Irvine-based Tesla aftermarket and performance company, posted an open offer on X on November 10 proposing to take over Tesla's Cybertruck production line at Giga Texas, letting Tesla redirect all factory space, headcount, and R&D toward the Cybercab robotaxi.

"We fully support putting Cybercab first, and we'd be glad to take the Cybertruck line off your hands," the company wrote in a widely-shared thread. Under the proposal, Tesla would receive a licence fee plus a share of FSD and Robotaxi network revenues from every vehicle Unplugged produced.

The deal structure

Funding: A consortium of investors (Unplugged says it would assemble the capital) — no cost to Tesla's floor space or headcount.
Priority: Cybercab gets first call on battery-cell supply; Cybertruck production takes whatever is left.
Scope: Not just the Cybertruck — Unplugged also proposed building a three-row "CyberSUV" and an unmanned "CyberCargo" hauler.
Revenue to Tesla: Licence fee per unit + FSD/robotaxi data revenue share.

Why it went viral — and why it probably won't happen

The offer landed the same week Musk confirmed the Cybertruck line shuts around mid-2027 and that Tesla would refund many reservation deposits because it cannot fulfil existing orders before the line closes. The timing made the proposal feel urgent, and it quickly went viral across Tesla communities.

But the economics are the sticking point. Tesla, with its scale, vertical integration, and existing tooling, has already decided the Cybertruck is not worth the capital cost of continuing. For a consortium of outside investors to underwrite the same line at a smaller volume, the unit economics would need to work at a much lower utilisation rate — and the Cybertruck's 2026 run-rate (roughly 1,300–1,900 units/month in the US) makes that a stretch.

Unplugged itself acknowledged it was only "gauging interest" and is not accepting money or commitments. The company has invited potential strategic partners to reach out, but as of this writing no formal term sheet or Tesla response has been confirmed.

What it means for Canadian buyers

Regardless of whether the deal materialises, the practical takeaway for Canadian Cybertruck owners is the same: the production window is finite. Canadian MSRP stands at C$139,990 (Premium AWD) and C$167,990 (Cyberbeast) as of November 2026. A successful Unplugged takeover would extend the line, but Tesla's current commitment is to wind down by mid-2027 and focus on Cybercab. Until a formal agreement is signed, plan around the existing timeline.

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Cybertruck Posts Strongest Sales Month in Over a Year — Then Tesla Kills the Line

Wed, 11 Nov 2026 14:30:00 GMT

Cox Automotive estimates put Tesla's October Cybertruck deliveries at 1,914 units in the United States, an average transaction price of US$92,380, and the strongest monthly result in over a year according to Kelley Blue Book data published November 10. The figure is nearly 49% above the 2026 nine-month average of 1,287 per month, but still well below the 2024 pace of roughly 3,247 per month (38,965 units total).

The timing is ironic: Musk confirmed on November 6 that Giga Texas will dismantle the Cybertruck line around June–July 2027 to free capacity for the Cybercab, and on Monday he said Tesla would refund many reservation deposits because order volume exceeds remaining build slots.

What the numbers say

Oct 2026: 1,914 units (KBB/Cox estimate), ATP US$92,380
2026 YTD (Jan–Sep): 11,586 units, ~1,287/mo average
2025 full-year: 20,237 units, ~1,686/mo
2024 full-year: 38,965 units, ~3,247/mo

Canadian angle: a closing window

Canadian MSRP remains C$139,990 (Premium AWD) and C$167,990 (Cyberbeast) as of this writing, but US prices have already jumped up to 9% ahead of the wind-down. With US–Canada tariff exposure on imported steel and aluminium components, Canadian pricing could tighten further before the line closes. The EVAP rebate (up to C$5,000 federal + provincial top-ups in some provinces) still applies, effectively reducing the sticker by roughly 3–5%.

Why the surge matters

The October spike likely reflects a "last-chance" buying window: aware the line is shutting, early adopters pulled forward orders. Musk's own X post acknowledged the backlog exceeds remaining capacity, and Tesla added an extra shift at Giga Texas to try to clear it. For Canadian owners, the practical implication is shorter wait times on remaining allocations but a shrinking parts and software-support horizon after 2027.

Bottom line

October's numbers confirm the Cybertruck still has a loyal core, but the production clock is ticking. If you are on the fence, the next 18 months are the only window to buy new at current Canadian pricing before either tariff-driven repricing or scarcity premium takes hold.

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BYD Confirms Flash Charging Is Coming to Canada

Wed, 11 Nov 2026 03:30:00 GMT

BYD has confirmed that its Megawatt Flash Charging network is coming to Canada, according to reporting from AutoTrader and Electric Vehicles.com on November 9. The confirmation follows months of speculation after BYD registered BYD Canada Company Limited in Markham, Ontario, launched a Canadian website, and began hiring for a Flash Charging business development role in the country.

What the Flash Charger actually does

BYD's second-generation Flash Charger delivers up to 1,500 kW of power through a T-shaped station with two charging cables. The company claims a compatible vehicle can charge from 10 to 97 per cent in approximately nine minutes, adding roughly 400 km of range in the time it takes to buy a coffee. In a cold-weather test at -30°C, a Denza Z9GT charged from 20 to 97 per cent in 12 minutes on a 1,500 kW unit — a critical data point for Canadian winters where range anxiety is most acute.

The stations do not pull 1,500 kW directly from the local grid. Each unit carries its own battery buffer that delivers the burst of power during a charge, then recharges slowly from ordinary grid connections when no vehicle is plugged in. BYD CEO Wang Chuanfu has compared the installation to fitting an air conditioner — a plug-and-play approach that avoids overloading local infrastructure.

The Canadian rollout timeline

BYD has installed its 10,000th Flash Charger in Shenzhen, roughly six months after launching the second-generation technology, and is targeting 20,000 stations by the end of 2026 in China. The company is installing them at fueling stations operated by Sinopec, PetroChina, CNOOC, Teld, and JD.com rather than building every site from scratch.

For Canada, the confirmation implies a phased rollout that will likely follow the arrival of BYD vehicles under the Chinese-EV import quota. The first quota year allows 49,000 vehicles at a 6.1 per cent most-favoured-nation tariff, with 32,794 permits remaining as of November 6. BYD's Canadian website already features Flash Charging specifications prominently, including a claim that a 20-to-97-per-cent charge at -30°C takes just three minutes longer than in normal conditions.

What this means for Canadian EV drivers

For context on the speed gap: Tesla's latest V4 Superchargers peak at roughly one-third of the Flash Charger's 1,500 kW rating. If BYD deploys Flash Chargers in major Canadian corridors, the engineering bar for "fast" charging is being reset in real time. The stations are open to non-BYD vehicles — about one-third of charging sessions on the Chinese network have come from other brands — so the network could benefit the broader Canadian EV ecosystem.

However, the charging infrastructure buildout faces the same municipal permitting challenges that the Canadian Charging Infrastructure Council's recent survey identified: parking minimums, utility connection delays, and inconsistent approval processes across municipalities. The federal Budget 2026 allocated C$587 million to renew the ZEVIP program for 55,000 new chargers over five years, but industry leaders note that the money must be paired with streamlined permitting to deliver on schedule.

Canadians can compare current public charging costs across networks in our public charging cost guide, and check every available purchase incentive in the complete EV rebates guide.

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Chery's Jaecoo ET Set to Lead Canadian EV Debut Next Spring, Priced at C$65,000–$70,000

Wed, 11 Nov 2026 03:30:00 GMT

Chery Automobile is set to open its Canadian lineup with the Jaecoo ET, a premium five-seat electric SUV that is essentially a rebadged Exeed ET, when its Omoda and Jaecoo brands arrive next spring, according to GlobalChinaEV and Le Guide de l'auto. The starting price has been estimated at C$65,000 to C$70,000 — an outside estimate, not a price Chery has officially announced.

Chery has not yet confirmed the model. The official Omoda & Jaecoo Canada website names no vehicle, price, or retailer, and notes that the vehicles shown are intended for other markets. In late September, the same site said the brands were coming in late 2026, while a late-winter or early-spring launch is now expected.

The vehicle behind the badge

The ET comes from Exeed, Chery's upmarket brand, which sells only in China. Outside China, essentially the same vehicles are sold under the Exlantix name. For Canada, the ET is reported to get minor changes and its own design cues, including a front grille with vertical openings, and it rides on Chery's EOX platform for larger electrified models.

At about 5 metres long with a 3-metre wheelbase, the ET is larger than a Ford Mustang Mach-E or a Tesla Model Y but is pitched at the same buyers, with more space and comfort. Chery quotes 3.45 cubic metres of cabin space for the export ET, which also gets adaptive air suspension with continuous damping control.

Powertrain and range

In China, the Exeed ET is 4,955 mm long with a 3,000 mm wheelbase, and its battery-electric versions use CATL packs of 77 kWh and 100 kWh on an 800-volt platform. Battery-electric prices for the 2025 model run from 219,800 CNY (about US$32,700) to 279,800 CNY (about US$41,700) for the dual-motor Ultra. That all-wheel-drive version is rated at 655 km on China's CLTC cycle.

The Canadian version is reported to come standard with all-wheel drive and two motors making a combined 473 horsepower, fed by a 100 kWh battery on an 800-volt architecture. That output matches the 353 kW Chery quotes for the export Exlantix ET, which it says reaches 100 km/h in 4.8 seconds.

Preliminary figures point to about 525 km of WLTP range — roughly 410 km on the EPA cycle — with average consumption approaching 25 kWh/100 km. DC fast charging is reported to peak at 290 kW. In China, Chery says the 800-volt ET can add 475 km of CLTC range in 11.5 minutes. Those numbers could still be revised before sales begin.

Cold-weather readiness

Chery is reported to have made cold-weather changes for Canada: a heated steering wheel, heated mirrors, heated front and rear seats, a rear-camera washer, and a heated windshield, with battery preconditioning standard. Pop-out door handles are reported to have been swapped for conventional ones that cope better with ice, and the charge-port door has been strengthened.

Inside, the reported Canadian specification includes Nappa leather and massaging front and rear seats, an electrochromic glass roof, and a 2,140-watt, 23-speaker audio system. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are included.

Rebate eligibility and the import quota

The ET would miss out on the federal Electric Vehicle Affordability Program (EVAP), which excludes Chinese-made vehicles. Its rebates require a vehicle to be made in Canada or in a country with a free-trade agreement with Canada, and cap the transaction value at C$50,000 for vehicles not built in Canada. The program pays up to C$5,000 when the dealer's eligibility assessment is submitted in 2026, and up to C$4,000 in 2027.

The ET would enter under Ottawa's quota for China-built EVs, assessed at a most-favoured-nation tariff of 6.1 per cent with a permit. The first quota year allows 49,000 vehicles, with 32,794 permits remaining as of a November 6 update. The second quota year opens on March 1, 2027, around the time the ET is expected to go on sale. Global Affairs Canada can also set aside part of the quota for automakers, including new entrants.

Leasing terms are still being set, with Chery working on lease offers with J.D. Power and several financial institutions. A second model, the Jaecoo 5, is expected a few months after the ET, pending Transport Canada certification, at an estimated C$35,000.

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Oshawa's All-Canadian EV Prototype Borealis Debuts at New Council Inauguration

Wed, 11 Nov 2026 03:30:00 GMT

Oshawa, Ontario marked the start of its 2026-2030 council term with a fitting nod to its automotive future: the all-Canadian Project Arrow Borealis prototype was displayed at the city's inaugural council meeting held on November 10 at the downtown Tribute Communities Centre.

A vehicle built in Canada, for Canada

The Borealis is a next-generation zero-emission and autonomous vehicle prototype designed and built in partnership by students at Oshawa's Ontario Tech University. It is part of the Project Arrow 2.0 initiative, which brings together post-secondary academics and students to lead the build process. The vehicle showcases the kind of innovation and advanced manufacturing capability that is driving Oshawa's economic transformation beyond its historic role as a mass-production auto city.

Why Oshawa, why now

Oshawa has long been the heart of Canadian automotive manufacturing, but the shift toward electrification and autonomy is reshaping the city's industrial identity. The Borealis debut at the council's first meeting — the first time in the city's modern history that a new council was sworn in outside city hall — sends a clear signal: the next generation of Oshawa's economy will be defined by zero-emission technology and Canadian talent.

The Tribute Communities Centre, which turned 20 this month, hosted the ceremony to accommodate roughly 75 attendees. Incoming Mayor Tito-Dante Marimpietri, who won with 15,400 votes, was sworn in alongside four new councillors. Videos tracing Oshawa's journey from its hard-working industrial roots to a future driven by innovation were shown on the venue's score clock.

What it means for Canadian EV innovation

While the Borealis is a prototype and not a production vehicle, it represents a growing ecosystem of Canadian talent working on the full stack of EV and autonomous-vehicle development. For Canadian EV buyers and industry watchers, it is a reminder that the country's automotive story is not just about importing and selling vehicles — it is also about building them, from the battery to the autonomy software, on home soil.

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Global EV Sales Milestone: Gasoline-Only Cars Fall Below 50% for the First Time

Wed, 11 Nov 2026 00:45:00 GMT

A historic milestone was reached in the global automotive market: gasoline-only cars have officially fallen below 50% of total new vehicle sales. This shift, driven by the rapid adoption of electric vehicles (EVs) and hybrids, marks a definitive turning point in the industry's transition away from internal combustion engines.

The numbers behind the milestone

According to recent global sales data, electric and hybrid vehicles now account for over 50% of new car sales worldwide. While EVs continue to grow their share, it is the surge in hybrid vehicles that has been the primary driver of this shift. This trend is particularly pronounced in Europe and China, where government incentives and stricter emissions regulations have accelerated the transition.

Global Shift: Gasoline-only vehicles now represent less than half of all new car sales globally.
Regional Variations: Europe leads in EV adoption, while Asia-Pacific sees strong growth in both EVs and hybrids.
North America: While lagging behind Europe, North America is seeing steady growth in EV and PHEV sales, driven by new model launches and improved charging infrastructure.

Implications for the Canadian market

This global trend has significant implications for Canada. As more manufacturers shift their focus to electrified powertrains, Canadian consumers will have access to a wider variety of EV and hybrid models. This increased competition is expected to drive down prices and improve technology, benefiting buyers in the long run.

Furthermore, this milestone underscores the growing importance of charging infrastructure. As the number of EVs on the road increases, the need for a robust and reliable charging network becomes even more critical. Canadian provinces are responding with increased investments in public charging stations and incentives for home charger installation.

What's next for the auto industry

The fall of gasoline-only cars below the 50% mark is not just a statistical milestone but a signal of a fundamental change in consumer behavior and industry strategy. Automakers are increasingly focusing their R&D and marketing efforts on electrified vehicles, and traditional gas-only models are becoming niche products.

For Canadian drivers, this means more choices and better technology. Whether you are looking for a pure electric vehicle or a hybrid that offers the best of both worlds, the market is now firmly on the side of electrification.

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VinFast Extends 10-Year Warranty to VF 8 in Canada, Bolstering Total Cost of Ownership

Wed, 11 Nov 2026 00:30:00 GMT

VinFast has confirmed that its flagship electric SUV, the VF 8, will carry the company's full 10-year/200,000 km limited warranty in Canada. This development, announced alongside the launch of their Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) program, aims to alleviate one of the primary concerns for Canadian EV buyers: long-term reliability and residual value.

Warranty details and implications

The 10-year warranty covers both the new-vehicle limited warranty and the battery warranty, which is unlimited in mileage. For a vehicle like the VF 8, which is positioned in the competitive luxury EV segment, this extended coverage is a significant differentiator. Most competitors, including Tesla and BMW, typically offer warranties ranging from 4 to 8 years, making VinFast's offering one of the most generous in the industry.

10-Year/200,000 km Limited Warranty: Covers major mechanical and electrical components.
10-Year Unlimited-Mileage Battery Warranty: Ensures battery capacity above a certain threshold for a decade.
Transferability: The warranty is transferable to subsequent owners, which is a key driver for potential resale value.

Competitive landscape in Canada

As the Canadian EV market matures, warranty terms have become a critical factor in purchase decisions. The VF 8, with its 10-year warranty, now competes directly with models like the Tesla Model Y and the Hyundai Ioniq 5, both of which offer strong but shorter warranty packages. For Canadian buyers looking to maximize the value of their investment, the VinFast VF 8 offers a lower risk profile regarding long-term maintenance and battery degradation.

This move also aligns with VinFast's broader strategy to establish itself as a reliable brand in North America, moving beyond its initial perception as a budget-friendly option to a more premium positioning.

What this means for buyers

For prospective buyers of the VF 8, the 10-year warranty provides peace of mind and potentially lowers the total cost of ownership. If you are considering a luxury EV in Canada, the extended warranty may tip the scale in VinFast's favor, especially if you plan to keep the vehicle for more than five years.

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BMW Confirms Cheaper LFP Batteries for EVs Outside China

Tue, 10 Nov 2026 21:00:00 GMT

BMW confirmed during its latest earnings call that it will adopt lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery packs for select EV models sold outside China. The move targets cost reduction on entry-level trims and could extend to the upcoming Neue Klasse platform, though the company did not specify which exact models or trims will receive the LFP chemistry.

What BMW said

The announcement came on the company's quarterly earnings call, where executives confirmed that LFP cells will be used in some EV variants outside the Chinese market. BMW did not confirm specific model names, price reductions, or a timeline for North American or European launch. The company's current mainline EVs use nickel-manganese-cobalt (NMC) cells, which deliver superior range and energy density but at a higher cost.

LFP in context

BMW has already deployed LFP batteries in China. The iX3 30 L, sold in the Chinese market, uses a 77 kWh LFP pack that delivers a 630 km range. The higher-spec iX3 40L and iX3 50L trims in China continue to use NMC packs, illustrating the tiered approach BMW is taking with battery chemistry.

Industry analysts expect BMW to follow a similar strategy globally: an entry-level LFP variant for the Neue Klasse range, with NMC reserved for higher-end trims that prioritise range and performance.

Supply-chain diversification

In the same announcement, BMW disclosed that it is broadening its battery supply network. The company has secured deals with Samsung SDI for European production and LG Energy Solution for U.S.-based production, both expected to ramp up at the end of the 2020s. This multi-source strategy reduces reliance on any single cell supplier and aligns with North American and European local-content requirements.

For Canadian buyers, the practical implication is that a future lower-trim BMW EV — possibly the Neue Klasse sedan or SUV — could arrive at a lower price point than the NMC-equipped version, making the brand more competitive against Tesla, Hyundai, and the growing field of Chinese-branded EVs entering the Canadian market.

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HMD Trucking Receives First of 50 Tesla Semi Trucks in Chicago

Tue, 10 Nov 2026 21:00:00 GMT

HMD Trucking has taken delivery of its first Tesla Semi, marking a milestone for the company's 50-truck electric fleet order announced in September 2026. The truck, received on November 2 in Chicago, is the first Tesla Semi registered in Illinois.

What the test drive revealed

Before the formal delivery, HMD operated the Semi for more than 4,000 miles (6,437 km) during a summer testing programme. The company reported an average energy consumption of 1.74 kWh per mile, a figure Tesla has cited in its own efficiency claims for the Semi under real-world, mixed-load conditions.

HMD plans to use its initial trucks primarily for local operations around the Chicago area. The company also indicated plans to expand the electric fleet "far beyond the Chicagoland market" as additional units arrive.

Operator perspective

Michael Mahler, COO of HMD Trucking, told Drive Tesla Canada that the company's nearly 15 years of experience with Tesla vehicles gave it a clear understanding of what the Semi can do. "Tesla has been transparent with us regarding the capabilities of Semi every step of the way and it has not disappointed," Mahler said.

What it means for Canadian freight

While this delivery is U.S.-based, the Illinois registration is notable for Canadian operators: cross-border freight corridors run through Chicago, and the presence of Tesla Semi infrastructure in the region could influence Canadian trucking companies evaluating electric conversions on the U.S. side of their routes. Tesla has not yet announced a Canadian Semi sales programme, but the company's North American charging and service build-out — including the Port of Long Beach Megachargers that went live in late October — suggests a broader commercial-EV rollout is underway.

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Lucid Cuts Service Wait Times 20% as North American Network Expands

Tue, 10 Nov 2026 21:00:00 GMT

Lucid Motors has reported a 20 percent reduction in global service wait times for the third quarter of 2026, a figure the company attributes to expanded staffing, a larger mobile-repair fleet, and the opening of several new service locations across North America.

Mobile repair capacity up 15 percent

According to Lucid's Q3 update, mobile service capacity across North America rose 15 percent during the quarter. The company is targeting a 40 percent increase by December, supported by an additional 20 Gravity-based mobile service vehicles. Those SUVs carry tools, parts, and an air compressor in a layout that offers more than twice the storage of Lucid's existing Air-based service cars.

The Gravity-based mobile repair platform was introduced in April 2026. By adding 20 more units by year-end, Lucid aims to cut the gap between a customer's service request and the actual repair appointment.

New fixed locations

Mission Viejo, California — combined sales and service facility now open.
Downtown Los Angeles — scheduled to open before December 2026.
Dallas, Texas — scheduled to open before December 2026.
Highland Park, Illinois — planned for early 2027.

Workforce and broader expansion

Lucid's worldwide technical and service support workforce grew more than 40 percent quarter-over-quarter. The company's stated targets are a 50 percent increase by the end of 2026 and 60 percent during Q1 2027.

Overseas, Lucid is adding retail and repair partners in the Netherlands and Germany, with Emil Frey France supporting its French market entry. In Saudi Arabia, a company-operated body and paint shop has opened in Riyadh, with further service sites in Riyadh and Dammam expected to come online during the first half of 2027.

For Canadian owners, the expansion is notable because Lucid has not yet announced a dedicated Canadian service centre. The company's current North American footprint remains concentrated in California, Texas, and Illinois, meaning Canadian customers will continue to rely on mobile-service visits or travel to U.S. locations for warranty work.

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Lucid Secures $1.75B PIF Lifeline as Q3 Revenue Misses Estimates

Tue, 10 Nov 2026 18:00:00 GMT

Lucid Motors has reported its third-quarter 2026 financial results, revealing a continued struggle to achieve profitability despite a significant liquidity boost from its primary investor. The company announced it has secured an additional $1.75 billion in loan financing from the Public Investment Fund (PIF) of Saudi Arabia, expanding the existing facility to support its turnaround plan.

Q3 Financial Performance

According to the earnings report, Lucid's revenue rose 4% quarter-over-quarter but still missed Wall Street estimates. The most critical metric for long-term viability, cash burn, saw a notable improvement:

Cash Burn: Reduced by 30% to approximately $1 billion for the quarter.
Gross Margin: Remained deeply negative at -74%, indicating that the cost of producing vehicles far exceeds their selling price.
Revenue: Showed a modest 4% increase, driven by continued delivery of the Lucid Air and early Gravity SUV units.

PIF Loan Expansion

The $1.75 billion expansion of the PIF loan facility provides Lucid with a critical runway to keep its operations running while it scales production. This is the latest in a series of financial support packages from the Saudi sovereign wealth fund, which has been a cornerstone of Lucid's survival strategy.

The company emphasized that the reduced cash burn reflects ongoing cost-cutting measures and improved operational efficiency. However, the negative gross margin of -74% suggests that Lucid is still losing significant money on every vehicle it sells, a common challenge for EV startups in the early stages of production scaling.

What this means for Canadian buyers

For Canadian consumers, the PIF lifeline ensures that Lucid remains in the market, maintaining dealer networks and service support for existing Air and Gravity owners. The company continues to focus on its luxury segment, competing with brands like Mercedes-Benz and BMW. While the financial struggles may limit aggressive marketing or discounting in the near term, the secured liquidity provides stability for the foreseeable future.

Investors and observers should watch for continued improvement in gross margins, which is the key metric that will determine if Lucid can eventually achieve self-sufficiency without further external funding.

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Polestar Increases EV Discounts to $15,000 in Canada, But There’s a Catch

Tue, 10 Nov 2026 18:00:00 GMT

Polestar has announced an increase in its electric vehicle discounts in Canada, raising the bonus to C$15,000 for select models. While the headline number is attractive, the company notes that monthly lease payments remain largely unchanged, suggesting the discount is being absorbed into the lease structure rather than lowering the upfront sticker price significantly.

The New Incentive Structure

The new C$15,000 bonus is designed to make luxury EVs more accessible to Canadian buyers, particularly in the competitive premium segment. Key features of the new offer include:

Discount Amount: Up to C$15,000 off the purchase price for qualifying models.
Monthly Payments: Lease payments have been held steady, meaning the discount is effectively subsidized by the lessor rather than passed on as a lower monthly cost.
Model Eligibility: The discount applies to specific trims of the Polestar 2 and Polestar 3, with the Polestar 4 potentially excluded or offered at a lower discount tier.

The "Catch": Inventory and Timing

The "catch" mentioned in the announcement refers to inventory availability. Due to high demand and supply chain adjustments, not all models are immediately available with the full discount. Buyers may need to wait for new stock to arrive, or settle for a different trim level.

Additionally, the bonus is often tied to specific financing or leasing terms, meaning cash buyers may not receive the same effective discount as those financing through Polestar's partner banks. Canadian buyers are advised to verify the exact terms with their local dealer before making an offer.

Competitive Landscape

This move positions Polestar competitively against other luxury EV brands in Canada, such as Tesla, BMW, and Mercedes-Benz, which have also been offering incentives to stimulate demand. The C$15,000 discount brings the effective price of the Polestar 2 closer to that of mid-range non-luxury EVs, potentially attracting buyers who are price-sensitive but desire premium features.

For Canadian consumers, this is a good time to negotiate. With increased discounts and stable lease rates, buyers have more leverage to request additional perks, such as free charging credits or extended warranties.

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2027 BMW i3 Review: The New Contender for Canadian EV Buyers

Tue, 10 Nov 2026 16:30:00 GMT

The 2027 BMW i3 has arrived in Canadian showrooms, and it’s a significant upgrade from its predecessors. BMW has focused on addressing the two biggest complaints from early i3 owners: range anxiety and interior space. With a new battery platform and a refined driving experience, the i3 is positioning itself as a serious competitor to the Tesla Model 3 and the Hyundai Ioniq 6.

Range and Performance

The headline feature of the 2027 i3 is its new 80 kWh battery pack, which offers an estimated 580 km of range on the WLTP cycle (approximately 450-480 km in real-world Canadian conditions). This is a substantial jump from the previous model and puts it in direct competition with the long-range EVs that have dominated the market.

Under the hood, the single-motor rear-wheel-drive version produces 268 horsepower, while the dual-motor i3 M Sport variant pushes 385 horsepower. 0-100 km/h acceleration is achieved in 5.9 seconds, making it a sporty choice for Canadian commuters who enjoy a bit of power on the highway.

Interior and Technology

BMW has completely redesigned the interior for the 2027 model year. The new iDrive 9 infotainment system features a larger, curved display that integrates the instrument cluster and central screen. The build quality is noticeably improved, with softer materials and better sound insulation, making long winter drives more comfortable.

Infotainment: 12.3-inch digital cluster and 14.9-inch central display
Charging: 800V architecture supports up to 200 kW DC fast charging
Comfort: Heated seats, steering wheel, and rear heated seats in higher trims

Price and Availability in Canada

The 2027 BMW i3 starts at approximately $52,900 CAD for the base eDrive35 model. With the current federal and provincial rebates (such as the Quebec EV rebate or Ontario PHEV/BEV incentives), the effective price can drop significantly below $45,000 CAD for eligible buyers.

For Canadian drivers, the i3 offers a compelling alternative to Tesla, particularly for those who prefer a traditional driving feel and premium build quality over Tesla’s minimalist tech-focused approach. It’s a strong entry into the premium EV segment for the winter season.

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EV Drivers in Canada Can Now Earn Money by Charging Their Cars

Tue, 10 Nov 2026 16:00:00 GMT

For years, electric vehicle (EV) owners in Canada have focused on saving money on fuel and maintenance. Now, a growing number of drivers are finding that their EVs can actually earn them money. This is made possible through Vehicle-to-Grid (V2G) technology, which allows EVs to send stored electricity back to the power grid during peak demand periods.

How V2G Monetization Works

Traditional EV charging is a one-way street: energy flows from the grid to the car. V2G technology uses a bidirectional charger to reverse this flow. When electricity prices are high (typically during evening peaks in summer or winter), the grid needs more power. EV owners can sell the excess energy stored in their batteries back to the utility, earning a credit on their utility bill or a direct payment.

This isn't just theoretical. Utilities in Ontario and British Columbia are piloting programs that offer financial incentives for participating in demand-response events. By plugging in for a few hours during peak times and allowing the grid to draw power from your car, you can offset your charging costs significantly.

Is It Worth It?

The earnings vary by province, season, and how often you participate. However, for owners who charge their vehicles overnight and drive them during the day, the potential savings can be substantial. Here’s what to consider:

Equipment Costs: You need a bidirectional charger and a V2G-enabled EV (like the Nissan Leaf or upcoming Ford F-150 Lightning). Installation can cost between $2,000 to $5,000 CAD.
Utility Programs: Not all utilities offer V2G incentives yet. Check with Hydro One, BC Hydro, or your local municipal utility.
Battery Health: Frequent deep discharges to sell power may slightly accelerate battery degradation, though modern BMS (Battery Management Systems) mitigate this risk.

The Future of the "Energy Car"

As Canada’s grid becomes more reliant on renewable energy, the need for flexible storage grows. EVs represent a massive, distributed battery network. For Canadian drivers, this means their cars are no longer just transportation devices but active participants in the energy economy. It’s a small step toward a more sustainable and economically viable electric future.

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GM Recalls 9,000 EVs in Canada Over Potential Loss of Brakes

Tue, 10 Nov 2026 15:30:00 GMT

General Motors has announced a safety recall affecting approximately 9,000 electric vehicles in Canada, covering specific models of the Cadillac Lyriq and Chevrolet Blazer EV. The recall addresses a critical software issue in the brake system that could potentially lead to a loss of braking power under certain driving conditions.

The Safety Concern

According to the recall notice, a defect in the brake software module may cause the system to miscalculate the required braking force during specific scenarios, such as hard braking from high speeds or when the tires lose traction on slippery surfaces. In these instances, the vehicle may not slow down as quickly as expected, increasing the risk of a collision.

Affected Models

The recall primarily targets the following models manufactured in recent production batches:

Cadillac Lyriq: Certain 2024-2026 model years
Chevrolet Blazer EV: Certain 2024-2025 model years

Owners can check their Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) on the GM Canada website or contact their local dealer to confirm if their vehicle is affected. The fix is expected to be a free software update that can be installed over-the-air (OTA) for most vehicles, though some may require a dealer visit.

Owner Guidance

GM advises owners to remain calm and drive carefully until the update is applied. There have been no reported accidents or injuries directly linked to this specific defect in Canada, but the company is addressing the issue proactively to ensure the highest safety standards. Owners should not ignore the recall notice if they receive one, as consistent braking performance is essential for safe EV operation.

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Tesla Discontinues Cybertruck Premium AWD in Canada and U.S., Raises Cyberbeast Price by US$7,500

Tue, 10 Nov 2026 12:40:00 GMT

Tesla has removed the Cybertruck Premium AWD from its online configurator in both Canada and the United States, leaving the top-tier Cyberbeast as the only orderable trim. Alongside the trim reduction, Tesla raised the Cyberbeast's U.S. starting price from US$102,490 to US$109,990 — a US$7,500 increase. Canadian Cyberbeast pricing remains unchanged at C$167,990, according to Drive Tesla Canada's November 10 report.

What changed in the configurator

With the Premium AWD removed, Canadian and U.S. buyers now have a single option: the Cyberbeast, which features the tri-motor all-wheel-drive powertrain producing 845 horsepower and 0–100 km/h in under 3 seconds. The base Dual Motor AWD trim was removed from the U.S. configurator earlier in the production wind-down cycle, and the Premium AWD had been available in Canada at C$139,990.

The change follows Tesla's announcement that it will wind down Cybertruck production at Giga Texas around June or July 2027, repurposing the manufacturing space for the Cybercab robotaxi. CEO Elon Musk has said the company will "have to return deposits for a lot of people" because the order backlog exceeds remaining production capacity.

Why the price hike

The US$7,500 increase on the Cyberbeast appears to reflect reduced production volumes and the loss of economies of scale as the Cybertruck line prepares to shut down. Tesla has already raised Cybertruck prices by up to 9 percent in earlier rounds, and the U.S. tariff exposure on every unit built in Texas and shipped to Canada adds a layer of cost that the C$167,990 Canadian sticker price currently absorbs.

For Canadian buyers with outstanding Premium AWD orders, the discontinuation does not void existing deposits — Tesla will still build and deliver those vehicles before the line shuts down. However, delivery timelines may stretch as the factory prioritizes clearing the backlog before dismantling the assembly line.

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China Brands to Launch 18 EVs in Canada Before 2030, Analyst Says

Tue, 10 Nov 2026 12:35:00 GMT

Domestic Chinese brands are poised to flood Canada's electric vehicle market with 18 models before 2030, according to Canadian Black Book analyst Daniel Ross. The forecast, reported by Automotive News on November 9, 2026, suggests the China-brand wave will help the EV segment gain momentum but will simultaneously pressure incumbent automakers competing on price and range.

What the 18-model pipeline looks like

Ross's projection builds on the federal government's 100,000-vehicle tariff-quota framework, which has already facilitated the arrival of BYD, Geely (Zeekr, Lotus, Lynk & Co), and Chery models in Canadian showrooms. The 18-model count includes both passenger vehicles and light commercial EVs expected to clear Canadian Motor Vehicle Safety Standards testing and obtain import certification.

Key brands in the pipeline include:

BYD — Atto 3, Sealion 7, and upcoming mid-size SUVs
Zeekr (Geely) — premium EVs leveraging the Geely platform
Lynk & Co — compact and mid-size crossovers
Chery — Omoda and Tiggo sub-brands
Lotus — high-performance EVs (Eletre, Emeya)

What it means for Canadian buyers

The influx of Chinese-brand EVs is expected to compress pricing across the segment. Canadian EV import quotas currently allow up to 100,000 China-made vehicles per year at a reduced 6% tariff rate, versus 100% for non-qualifying imports. As more models clear the quota window, retail pricing pressure on established brands like Hyundai, Kia, and Tesla intensifies.

Incumbent automakers face a dual challenge: matching the aggressive pricing of Chinese entrants while defending market share in a segment where Canadian EV penetration reached 13% of new-vehicle sales in 2025, well below the 2030 target of 60% that was originally set under the ZEV mandate before the federal government scaled back its targets.

For buyers, the practical implication is a wider choice of affordable EVs, but also a need to verify that Chinese-brand models meet all Canadian safety and emissions standards before purchase.

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Fake BYD Website Offers C$41,900 EV in Canada — Here's How to Spot the Scam

Tue, 10 Nov 2026 12:30:00 GMT

A fraudulent website impersonating BYD Canada is advertising an Atto 3 electric vehicle for $41,900 and directing prospective buyers to pay by direct bank transfer, according to a warning video published by EV YouTuber Simply Gregster EV on November 10, 2026. BYD Canada has issued a public caution that "unauthorized websites or accounts online may falsely claim to be affiliated with or authorized by BYD Canada."

How the fake storefront works

The site listed the BYD Atto 3 alongside charging accessories — a flash charging station at $15,000, a Blade battery at $5,000, and a home wall charger at $3,000. When a buyer adds the Atto 3 to the cart and proceeds to checkout, the site requests name and billing details, then instructs payment via direct bank transfer using an Order ID as the reference. No credit card processing, no secure gateway, no escrow.

Gregster identified several red flags in minutes:

The WhatsApp contact number used a Turkish +90 country code, not a Canadian number
The listed address was in Hong Kong, which traced back to an actual BYD dealership
The checkout form defaulted to United States billing with state and ZIP code fields
The promotional copy included the awkward phrase "every model coming to Canadian" — a grammatical error inconsistent with a legitimate manufacturer site

Why it matters for Canadian EV buyers

The scam exploits the surge of interest in Chinese-made EVs entering the Canadian market under the federal tariff-quota framework. BYD vehicles have been spotted road-testing in Canada, and a BYD Sealion was recently photographed on Highway 407 with manufacturer plates, fueling speculation about a near-term launch. Scammers are capitalizing on that anticipation before any official Canadian launch has been confirmed.

Gregster also noted a second, related site that requested credit card information plus a $1,000 reservation deposit — that site had already disappeared by the time of recording.

What to do if you've encountered a suspicious site

BYD Canada's official contact information uses an email ending in @byd.com and lists a North York, Ontario office. Any site that asks for a bank transfer, uses a non-Canadian phone number, or defaults billing to a different country should be treated as fraudulent. The Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre (1-888-495-8477) accepts reports of online vehicle purchase scams.

Vehicles entering Canada must meet Canadian Motor Vehicle Safety Regulations before they are road-legal. No legitimate Canadian dealer can sell a new vehicle outside established dealer channels, and no manufacturer sells directly to consumers by bank wire.

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Budget 2026 Confirms EVAP Continues Through 2031 — Tax Credits Extended to 2040

Tue, 10 Nov 2026 03:40:00 GMT

The Carney government's second federal budget, tabled November 5, delivers a quiet but important confirmation for Canadian EV buyers: the Electric Vehicle Affordability Program (EVAP) continues without changes to its funding structure, eligibility criteria, or rebate amounts. The Budget does not detail any future modifications to the $5,000 point-of-sale incentive for battery-electric and fuel-cell electric vehicles, or the $2,500 incentive for plug-in hybrids.

EVAP, which launched in late March 2026, is a federally run point-of-sale incentive with a hard deadline of March 31, 2031 — or earlier, if allocated funds are exhausted. The Budget's silence on any changes effectively signals the program will run its full five-year course under its current rules.

The rebate you can still claim

As the Budget confirms, the EVAP structure remains:

BEV and FCEV: Up to $5,000 at point of sale
PHEV: Up to $2,500 at point of sale
Price cap: $50,000 final transaction value (no cap for vehicles made in Canada)
Limit: One incentive per individual over the program's lifetime
Window: February 16, 2026 through March 31, 2031 (or when funds run out)

The step-down schedule already in place — reducing the BEV rebate to $4,000 in 2027 and $3,000 in 2028 — remains unchanged. The Budget does not accelerate or delay this taper.

Tax credits extended to 2040

Less visible to consumers but critical for long-term industry health: the Budget extends the Clean Electricity Investment Tax Credit and the Clean Technology Investment Tax Credit from their originally planned 2034 expiry to the end of 2040 — a six-year extension. The Budget document projects these measures will cost $2.4 billion from 2027-28 through 2030-31, and $36.1 billion from 2031-32 through 2041-42.

The extension also expands eligibility to include high-voltage intra-provincial transmission lines in each province, and a new funding tranche is earmarked for the Smart Renewables and Electrification Pathways (SRP) Programme — a $4.5-billion program launched in 2021 to fund grid modernisation, energy storage, and renewable energy deployment.

Federal fleet goes electric

The Budget renews the Greening Government Operations Fleet Programme with $2.2 million over five years starting in 2027-28. Federal agencies will continue moving their vehicle fleets to zero-emission models in line with the Greening Government Strategy targets set in December 2017.

For Canadian EV buyers, the practical takeaway is straightforward: the $5,000 rebate is confirmed for the next five years, the regulatory environment supporting EV manufacturing and charging infrastructure is locked in through 2040, and the federal government itself will be a growing ZEV fleet buyer. The EVAP window is still open, and the step-down schedule gives buyers a reason to act before the rebate shrinks in 2027.

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Musk Says Cybertruck Is Profitable — Explains Cancellation and Deposit Refunds

Tue, 10 Nov 2026 03:35:00 GMT

Elon Musk has clarified that Tesla is not ending the Cybertruck because it loses money, pushing back against reports that the electric pickup was unprofitable. "This is not a case of Cybertruck being unprofitable, as has been misreported by legacy media," Musk wrote on X on November 9.

Instead, he said the opportunity cost of the Cybertruck's complexity "is vastly outweighed by the value of incremental Cybercab production." The announcement comes days after Tesla confirmed it will wind down Cybertruck production at Giga Texas around mid-2027 to free up factory space for the Cybercab robotaxi.

More orders than Tesla can build

Musk also said that "the Cybertruck order rate far exceeds our production rate." Tesla will build as many trucks as it can before the line shuts down in about eight months, but it "will have to return deposits for a lot of people." The company has already added an extra shift at Giga Texas to try and clear the backlog before the line is dismantled.

That matches what Musk said a few days earlier, when he announced Tesla would add an extra Cybertruck shift to work through the backlog before the line is torn down around June or July 2027. Tesla also recently raised Cybertruck prices by up to 9 percent and paused new orders for the base Dual Motor AWD trim, likely because it cannot fill the orders it already has.

Why not just build another factory?

When asked why Tesla doesn't simply build more factory space, Musk replied that building a high-volume factory is extremely difficult, adding that "prototypes are trivial by comparison." He also noted that Tesla has a limited number of skilled engineers, and keeping the Cybertruck going means tying up people, factory space, and equipment that could be scaling Cybercab production instead.

What it means for Canadian buyers

The Cybertruck remains available to order in Canada, with the Premium AWD starting at C$139,990 and the Cyberbeast at C$167,990. However, with the base Dual Motor AWD trim now paused in the U.S. configurator and production winding down by mid-2027, Canadian buyers who have placed orders should monitor their delivery timelines closely. The next eight months will determine whether they receive a truck or a refund.

Trim	U.S. Price (Nov 2026)	Canadian Price	Status
Dual Motor AWD	US$82,490	—	Orders paused
Premium AWD	US$92,490	C$139,990	Available
Cyberbeast	US$102,490	C$167,990	Available

Existing Cybertruck owners will still get parts and service after production ends. For anyone still waiting on an order, the next eight months will decide whether they get a truck or a refund.

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Starlink Expands Demand-Based Pricing to Canada — Toronto Now Priced 10% Over List

Tue, 10 Nov 2026 03:30:00 GMT

SpaceX has expanded its dynamic Starlink Residential pricing across much of the United States, with customers in some areas seeing monthly bills increase by as much as 20 percent depending on their location. According to a report by PCMag, the pricing changes have spread beyond the initial markets in Kansas, Missouri, and Nebraska, reaching customers in Virginia, Louisiana, North Carolina, Washington, and Alaska.

The changes are based on local network capacity and customer demand, allowing SpaceX to charge different prices depending on where subscribers live. In an email to affected customers, SpaceX explained: "As more people in your area use Starlink, less network capacity is available and service pricing may change from time to time."

What the U.S. changes mean

For customers facing the maximum 20 percent increase, the Residential Max plan rises from US$130 to US$156 per month, adding US$312 annually. However, prices are moving in both directions — customers in areas with available capacity, including Boston, San Francisco, and New York City, are being offered discounts of around 30 percent, sometimes reaching 50 percent.

What it means for Canadian subscribers

The changes also appear to be happening north of the border. During Drive Tesla Canada's own check of Starlink's Canadian Residential order pages, a downtown Toronto address (100 Queen St W) quoted Residential 100 Mbps at C$82.50 a month — 10 percent above the regular C$75 list price on Starlink's Canadian service plans page.

Meanwhile, addresses in Mississauga, Vancouver, Calgary, and Bracebridge showed C$52.50 a month under Starlink's current 30 percent promotional discount in Canada, which is advertised as ending November 30.

Toronto (downtown): C$82.50/month — 10% above list
Mississauga, Vancouver, Calgary, Bracebridge: C$52.50/month (30% promo)
Regular list price: C$75/month
Promo deadline: November 30, 2026

What to watch

SpaceX previously indicated it would review pricing roughly quarterly, although more recent customer notices have replaced that timeline with less specific language. For Canadian EV drivers relying on Starlink for rural or northern connectivity, the key question is whether the 30 percent promotional discount will remain available after November 30 or whether demand-based pricing will push prices above the C$75 list in high-density urban areas.

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GM Files Transport Canada Recall for 9,116 EVs Over Brake Software Flaw

Tue, 10 Nov 2026 00:30:00 GMT

Transport Canada filed recall campaign RC 2026528 on November 9, 2026, affecting 9,116 electric vehicles from General Motors' Cadillac and Chevrolet brands sold in Canada. The defect involves a software fault in the brake system control module (BSCM) that can cause a temporary loss of braking at low speed, increasing crash risk. This is the Canadian regulatory filing corresponding to the broader NHTSA campaign 26V717 that reached 67,380 vehicles globally.

What's affected

The Transport Canada recall covers the following Canadian-registered vehicles equipped with the performance all-wheel-drive package:

2023–2027 Cadillac Lyriq
2025–2026 Cadillac Celestiq
2026–2027 Cadillac Vistiq
2024–2026 Chevrolet Blazer EV

Per the filing, the BSCM can misread wheel movement when a driver lightly applies the brakes while turning over a bump or dip, causing the module to misinterpret wheel speed and temporarily reduce braking force. Lyriq owners previously repaired under earlier recall 2024-453 are also in scope.

The fix and what owners should do

GM will push a free over-the-air software update to correct the BSCM logic. Owners can also book a dealership appointment if they prefer an in-shop update. GM expects to begin mailing notification letters in December 2026; the update has not yet been released for 2023–2024 Lyriq models.

Canadian owners can confirm their VIN is in scope at Transport Canada's recall database or by calling their GM dealer directly. Cadillac service line: 1-800-333-4223; Chevrolet: 1-800-222-1020.

Canadian market context

GM led Canadian EV sales in 2025, making this recall a significant event for the brand's electrification push in North America. The 9,116-vehicle scope in Canada represents a meaningful share of the Lyriq and Blazer EV installed base and will likely draw scrutiny from provincial consumer-protection agencies. The OTA delivery method means no physical recall visit is required, but owners should confirm the update was applied before long winter commutes.

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Starlink Opens U.S. Retailer Applications for V4 and Mini Kits — What It Means for Canadian Rural Connectivity

Tue, 10 Nov 2026 00:25:00 GMT

SpaceX has opened applications for U.S. stores to sell Starlink satellite internet hardware, adding a retail channel alongside its existing direct-to-consumer and reseller programs. The program, announced on November 9, invites businesses — from single-location shops to multi-store chains — to stock and sell the Starlink V4 residential dish and the portable Starlink Mini kit, with particular emphasis on serving rural and remote customers.

How the retailer program works

Under the new arrangement, participating retailers handle the hardware transaction while Starlink retains control over the internet service, customer support, payments, and account management. Retailers earn a margin on each kit sold but are not responsible for subscription management or technical support. The company has not publicly disclosed specific retailer margins, minimum order quantities, or other financial terms on its application page.

Starlink V4: The next-generation residential dish, designed for at-home broadband in areas where terrestrial coverage is limited.
Starlink Mini: A portable, low-profile kit aimed at travellers, campers, and RV users who need reliable connectivity on the go.
Eligibility: Open to single-location or multi-store businesses; emphasis on rural and remote customer bases.
Separate from reseller program: This retail channel is distinct from Starlink's existing Authorized Reseller program, which allows approved businesses to sell products and services alongside other offerings.

Canadian angle: rural and northern connectivity

While the current application window is U.S.-only, the move signals a broader shift in how Starlink distributes hardware. Canada's vast rural and northern communities — from remote BC homesteads to Inuit communities in Nunavut — have been among the heaviest adopters of Starlink as a primary or backup broadband option. The 30% permanent discount on Canadian Residential and Roam plans (announced November 5) already made Starlink more accessible, and a retail distribution channel could further reduce friction for first-time buyers who prefer in-person hardware purchase and setup assistance.

For EV owners in rural Canada, reliable connectivity is not just a convenience. Home charging dashboards, fleet-management apps, and remote monitoring of solar-plus-storage systems all depend on stable internet. A retail expansion into Canada could shorten the time from device purchase to full setup, particularly in areas where shipping delays or technical barriers have historically slowed adoption.

What to watch

Starlink has already expanded hardware availability through Amazon, its own physical retail stores (Bozeman, Montana and three more planned), vending machines, and a $1 trial offer launched in partnership with Target. The retailer program is the latest in a multi-channel strategy that could eventually extend into Canadian retail partnerships, particularly in provinces like British Columbia, Alberta, and the Territories where Starlink demand is highest and terrestrial alternatives are sparse. Canadian consumers should monitor Starlink's Canadian site and regional news for announcements of a parallel retail program.

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Tesla's China Retail Sales Hit 8,817 in October — Worst Month Since July 2022

Tue, 10 Nov 2026 00:20:00 GMT

Tesla's retail sales in China fell to just 8,817 units in October 2026, the lowest monthly figure since July 2022, according to data from the China Passenger Car Association (COCA). The plunge represents a 66.1% year-over-year decline and an 86.4% drop from September, when Tesla delivered 64,837 vehicles to Chinese buyers. This marks the fifth consecutive month of year-over-year decline in Tesla's home market.

What the numbers say

Metric	Oct 2026	YoY / MoM
China retail deliveries	8,817	-66.1% YoY / -86.4% MoM
Giga Shanghai exports	59,012	~2× September (30,529)
Export share of output	87%	Highest since Oct 2022
YTD China retail (10 mo)	390,000	-15% vs. 2025
YTD exports	811,000	+21.4% YoY

Why domestic demand is stalling

Tesla launched discounts of up to 7,000 yuan (approximately C$1,380) on the Model 3 and Model Y through October 31, but the incentive failed to reignite consumer interest. The company is now layering on five-year zero-interest financing for select Model 3 and Model Y trims and integrating Alipay's in-car payment platform to differentiate the ownership experience. South Korea absorbed 20% of total Shanghai exports, underscoring how much of Tesla's China-built production now serves markets outside its largest historical market.

What this means for Canadian buyers

Tesla Canada already paused new Model 3 orders in September, citing exhaustion of its China-built import allocation under the 49,000-vehicle quota. The retail slump in China reinforces the structural shift: Giga Shanghai is increasingly an export plant rather than a domestic sales channel. For Canadian buyers, the practical takeaway is that Model 3 availability from the Shanghai line remains constrained until the next quota window opens in March 2027, while domestic (Fremont) Model 3 and Model Y production continues to supply the Canadian market at full rate.

The broader signal is that Tesla's competitive moat in China — once built on price and brand — is eroding under sustained pressure from BYD, NIO, Li Auto, and XPeng, all of which posted record or near-record volumes in October. The question for 2027 is whether Tesla's software and Supercharger advantages can offset a product cycle that Chinese consumers increasingly view as mature.

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Ford Reports 92% Battery Health for Mustang Mach-E 'Class of 2021' After 5 Years

Mon, 09 Nov 2026 21:00:00 GMT

Ford has released compelling real-world data on its first mass-market electric vehicle, the Mustang Mach-E, revealing that the "Class of 2021" models retain an average of 92 percent battery health after five years of ownership. This announcement, made by Ford's "From the Road" engineering team, provides concrete evidence against common concerns regarding long-term EV battery degradation.

The Data Behind the Claim

The study analyzed battery state-of-health data from more than 36,000 Mustang Mach-E vehicles sold in the U.S. and Canada. These vehicles have collectively logged approximately 2 billion all-electric miles across all 50 states and Canada. The data indicates that 95 percent of the vehicles fall within a healthy range of 87 to 97 percent battery health, suggesting consistent performance across the fleet rather than isolated outliers.

Average Health: 92% retention after 5 years
High-Mileage Group: 2,000+ owners past 100,000 miles average >91% health
Extreme Use Case: 30+ drivers past 200,000 miles average 88% health
Total Distance: 2 billion miles driven by the 2021 cohort

Implications for Canadian Buyers

For Canadian buyers considering used or certified pre-owned Mach-Es, this data offers reassurance regarding residual value and reliability. Ford notes that these vehicles use NCM (Nickel Cobalt Manganese) battery chemistry, which is designed to handle moderate charging levels for daily use. The company emphasizes that following specific charge-level recommendations in the Ford App is key to maintaining these health metrics.

As the EV market matures, OEMs like Ford are increasingly using fleet data to validate durability claims. This transparency helps differentiate established EV models from newer entrants with less historical data available.

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Honda Invests $867 Million to Retool Alliston, Ontario Plant for Hybrid and EV Production

Mon, 09 Nov 2026 21:00:00 GMT

Honda has announced an $867 million investment across its North American manufacturing network, including a dedicated $166 million commitment to retool its Alliston, Ontario plant for next-generation hybrid-electric and gasoline-powered models. The broader package includes a new $3 billion assembly plant in central Ohio, bringing Honda's North American capacity to approximately 1.9 million vehicles per year.

What's happening at Alliston

The Alliston facility, which has produced the Civic and CR-V for over four decades, will undergo retooling to support Honda's plan to introduce 15 new Honda and Acura hybrid models globally by 2030. The plant will reintroduce engine manufacturing alongside hybrid powertrain assembly, giving Ontario's auto workforce a dual-role in both traditional and electrified production.

According to Honda's press release, the Alliston retooling includes upgrades to production lines, tooling, and quality systems to handle next-generation hybrid architectures. The investment is part of Honda's response to shifting North American demand, where hybrid vehicles have seen strong growth as consumers seek a transition path from gasoline to full electric.

The wider North American footprint

New Ohio plant: $3 billion, 240,000 vehicles/year capacity, operational by 2029, 2,000+ new jobs
Alliston, Ontario: $166 million retooling for hybrid-electric and gasoline models
Alabama: V6 hybrid engine production added; Line 1 to build the Passport
Georgia (Anna Engine Plant): retooling for four-cylinder Atkinson-cycle engines
Total North American capacity: ~1.9 million vehicles annually after expansion

What it means for Canadian buyers

The Alliston investment signals that Honda intends to keep Canadian-built models — particularly the CR-V and Civic — in production through the 2030s. For buyers in Ontario and across Canada, this means continued domestic availability of popular compact and mid-size models, both in hybrid and conventional powertrains. The retooling also suggests that future Canadian-market models will likely feature the newer, more efficient hybrid systems Honda is rolling out globally.

Ohio Governor Mike DeWine welcomed the Ohio component, noting that "Honda's leadership could have chosen to build this plant anywhere in the world, but they chose Ohio." The Alliston investment, while smaller in dollar terms, is critical for sustaining Ontario's auto manufacturing base and the thousands of jobs tied to it.

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Kakao Mobility Partners with Nvidia on Level 4 Autonomous Driving in Korea

Mon, 09 Nov 2026 21:00:00 GMT

Kakao Mobility, the South Korean ride-hailing giant behind KakaoT, has confirmed a partnership with Nvidia to bring Level 4 autonomous driving to its robotaxi fleet — while keeping the driving software entirely in-house. The move positions Korea as the first major Asian market to field a Level 4 autonomous fleet with a sovereign technology stack.

What the partnership covers

According to Automotive World, Kakao Mobility's new autonomous driving computing unit will carry two Nvidia Drive AGX Thor platforms for real-time AI processing, using Nvidia's Hyperion reference architecture to keep the vehicle, sensors, and computer compatible at Level 4. Nvidia's Halos platform will cover software development and validation tooling.

The critical distinction: Kakao Mobility is keeping its driving software in-house. The end-to-end model — linking perception through to decision-making — is Kakao's own, built on urban-road testing in Gangnam, Seoul. Nvidia is supplying the compute hardware and tuning support, not the driving stack.

Why this matters for the autonomous driving landscape

Sovereign stack: Unlike Waymo (in-house) or most OEM programs (partnered), Kakao is keeping the Level 4 software proprietary while buying best-in-class compute — a model that protects IP while leveraging Nvidia's silicon roadmap
Dual Thor compute: Two AGX Thor units per vehicle signals a safety-architecture approach where one unit runs the driving model and the other handles redundancy/validation
Korea first: CEO Ryu Kung-sun confirmed Korea is the primary market, with overseas expansion a "medium to long-term option"
Hyperion compatibility: Using Nvidia's reference architecture means Kakao's sensor suite (lidar, cameras, radar) is pinned to a known-good integration baseline

Canadian perspective

Level 4 robotaxi programs in North America are concentrated in Waymo (Phoenix, LA, San Francisco) and Tesla's geofenced Austin/San Antonio deployments. Korea's entry with a sovereign stack adds a third major player with a different operating model: a ride-hailing company that owns both the demand side (KakaoT riders) and the supply side (autonomous fleet), reducing the capital intensity that has slowed North American robotaxi economics.

For Canadian EV owners, the near-term relevance is indirect: Nvidia's AGX Thor platform is also the compute backbone for several Level 2+ ADAS systems in production vehicles, and the validation methodologies from Halos will feed back into the safety cases that regulators — including Transport Canada — will scrutinize when Level 4 services expand north of the border.

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Chery Recalls 53,882 Omoda and Tiggo 5x Vehicles in China After Malaysia Axle Failure — What It Means for Canada

Sat, 07 Nov 2026 22:00:00 GMT

Chery Automobile (HKG: 9973) will recall 53,882 Omoda and Tiggo 5x vehicles in China starting November 27, 2026, after China's State Administration for Market Regulation (SAMR) flagged a rear-axle weld defect. The recall covers vehicles built between June 6, 2022 and December 31, 2023, and follows a month after a 2023 Omoda 5 lost its rear axle and wheels while being driven in Johor Bahru, Malaysia.

What the defect is

According to SAMR's filing, a manufacturing process problem may have left the weld between each rear axle's trailing arm and its sleeve defective. In extreme cases, the weld could fail and separate, causing a loss of wheel control. Chery will inspect the axle production date code free of charge and replace the rear axle on any vehicle from the defective batch, notifying owners by text message and registered mail.

The Malaysia incident that triggered it

The recall follows a 2023 Omoda 5 that lost its rear axle and wheels while being driven in Johor Bahru, Malaysia, on October 6. No one was injured. Malaysia's Road Transport Department (JPJ) suspended the model's vehicle type approval and all new registrations on October 11, and said it would audit the Omoda 5's production and assembly line and its axle supplier.

Chery responded the same day, saying an investigation found that welds at part of the rear trailing arm on the affected batch may lack sufficient strength, and that models with that structure were already out of production. Its Malaysian unit began recalling 8,878 Omoda 5 SUVs in C and H variants. The China recall is about six times the size of the Malaysian one, and it adds the Tiggo 5x, which was not part of the Malaysian campaign.

Why this matters for Canada

Chery's Omoda and Jaecoo brands plan to launch their first electric SUV in Canada in spring 2027, with a second model about three months later. Both models are due to be revealed on November 10. The plan calls for about a dozen dealers in Quebec, Ontario and British Columbia, and roughly 6,000 sales in the first year.

Canadian buyers should note that the Omoda 5 and Tiggo 5x affected by the China recall are not the same models Chery is bringing to Canada. The Canadian launches are new electric SUVs, not the gasoline or PHEV variants caught in this recall. However, the axle-weld defect is a reminder that Chery's export-focused brands are still working through quality-control issues from earlier production batches. How the brand handles questions about the Omoda 5's axle record may well shape its first impression with Canadian buyers.

China recall size: 53,882 vehicles (Omoda + Tiggo 5x, built June 2022 – December 2023)
Malaysia recall size: 8,878 Omoda 5 SUVs (C and H variants)
Defect: rear-axle trailing-arm weld may lack sufficient strength
Canada launch: first electric SUV in spring 2027, second model ~3 months later
Canadian dealer plan: ~12 dealers in Quebec, Ontario and BC; ~6,000 first-year sales

Chery is also weighing local production in Canada, according to executive vice president Zhang Guibing in an October 23 report. With the Canadian models due to be named next week, the brand's handling of the Omoda 5's axle record will be closely watched by Canadian consumers and regulators alike.

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Tesla Semi Megachargers Go Live at the Port of Long Beach

Sat, 07 Nov 2026 21:45:00 GMT

Tesla Semi drivers now have two new Megachargers available at the Port of Long Beach, where Forum Mobility marked the opening with a charging session featuring a customer's production-model electric truck. The V4 Megawatt Charging Standard (MCS) units are installed at FM Harbor, Forum's flagship electric truck charging depot, where the chargers can restore up to 60 percent of a truck's range in 30 minutes.

Tesla Charging highlighted the opening on X, pointing Semi buyers toward its business charging program and describing private charging sites as a way to improve ownership costs and the operating experience.

What the Long Beach site delivers

Two V4 Megachargers now operational at FM Harbor, Port of Long Beach
Recovery rate: up to 60% of truck range in 30 minutes
Forum's cost claim: electricity for truck charging at a cost 40% below diesel (fuelling costs only, not total ownership)

Forum's wider buildout

For Forum, the Long Beach installation is part of a much larger expansion aimed at trucking companies shifting to electrification. The company currently has another 30 MW of charging infrastructure under construction at four California depots — Rancho Dominguez, Ontario, and two in Oakland — with further locations in development across California's Inland Empire and Central Valley, plus Las Vegas, Phoenix, Houston, Dallas, Seattle/Tacoma, and Chicago.

Forum says 25 carriers have contracted charging capacity, and its customers hold reservations for more than 330 Tesla Semis.

The Canadian angle

For Canadian fleets, the Long Beach opening is a milestone in the broader Semi charging story that already has a domestic footprint. Tesla has introduced Semi Charging for Business in Canada, which offers both high-power Megachargers and slower Basechargers — giving operators a choice between quicker stops and longer periods parked at their own depots. Earlier this year, Tesla also deployed its first pre-assembled Megachargers in Canada, factory-built units that cut on-site construction and electrical trenching.

The Long Beach depot is a useful template for what Canadian fleet operators can expect as the Semi charging network matures: dedicated private sites, megawatt-class hardware, and a total-cost-of-ownership pitch built around the gap between electricity and diesel.

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Tesla Adds an Extra Shift as Cybertruck Orders Outrun Remaining Production Capacity

Sat, 07 Nov 2026 21:30:00 GMT

Elon Musk says Tesla now holds more Cybertruck orders than the factory can build before the production line is dismantled, and the company is adding an extra shift at Giga Texas to try and clear the backlog. The update, shared on X and reported by Drive Tesla Canada, lands just one day after Musk confirmed the Cybertruck's production wind-down in 2027 to free up capacity for the Cybercab.

"The Tesla Cybertruck order backlog is currently far more than we can make before dismantling the line for Cybercab expansion around June/July next year. We will add an extra shift to try to get all orders done in time," Musk wrote.

What the numbers say

The backlog claim sits against a backdrop of surprisingly modest near-term sales. According to estimates from Cox Automotive, Tesla sold 11,586 Cybertrucks in the U.S. during the first nine months of 2026. Tesla's most recent shareholder deck lists annual installed Cybertruck production capacity at more than 125,000 vehicles at Giga Texas — so the order book, not the factory, is the constraint.

U.S. sales, Jan–Sep 2026: 11,586 Cybertrucks (Cox Automotive estimate)
Installed annual capacity: 125,000+ vehicles at Giga Texas
Line shutdown window: June/July 2027, to make room for Cybercab expansion
Fix: an added production shift to clear existing orders

The Canadian price picture

The Cybertruck remains available to order in Canada with no price changes. Thanks to tariffs, Canadian pricing sits well above U.S. levels — the Premium All-Wheel-Drive starts at C$139,990 and the Cyberbeast at C$167,990, versus U.S. prices that have already been raised by up to 9 percent and that briefly listed an entry-level Dual-Motor AWD variant at US$59,990 before it was pulled from the configurator.

For Canadian buyers, the extra shift is a double-edged story. On one side, it signals Tesla intends to honour existing orders rather than quietly closing the books early. On the other, given the company is already describing itself as production-constrained, it would not be surprising if Tesla stops accepting new Cybertruck orders well before the planned mid-2027 shutdown — meaning anyone still waiting on a Canadian delivery may find the window to order closing faster than expected.

Why it matters

The Cybertruck's final months are now running on a countdown. The added shift is Tesla's attempt to deliver on the cars it has already sold before the assembly line gives way to the Cybercab — a useful reassurance for those on the existing order book, and a signal to anyone still deciding that the remaining order window is finite.

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Tesla Finally Opens Gatineau Supercharger After Years of Delays — Eight V4 Stalls Live

Sat, 07 Nov 2026 18:25:00 GMT

Tesla has opened a new Supercharger in Gatineau, Quebec, bringing a long-promised location online after years of delays and a change of plans. Photos show eight V4 charging posts installed at 425 Boulevard de la Vérendrye Ouest, and the station was energized this week after sitting idle for nearly a year following the visible installation work reported in November 2025.

How long Gatineau waited

Gatineau's path to a Supercharger stretches back to October 2021, when the city was first listed on Tesla's charging map. Construction did not follow immediately, and an earlier proposal at a different address ultimately went nowhere. By November 2025 there was finally visible progress — eight V4 posts installed at the Vérendrye Ouest location — but, as is typical with many Canadian Supercharger projects, the site sat dark until this week when Tesla was able to energize it.

Charging rates at Gatineau

Rates vary by time of day, with a steep off-peak discount overnight:

Tesla owners: $0.26/kWh from 11 p.m. to 10 a.m., rising to $0.45/kWh between 10 a.m. and 11 p.m.
Non-Tesla EV drivers: $0.37/kWh overnight, $0.63/kWh during the day.

For road-trippers heading to Ottawa or the Laurentians, the overnight rate makes Gatineau one of the cheapest places to top up in the province.

The bigger Quebec picture

Gatineau joins several Quebec communities that gained new Tesla Superchargers this year:

Sherbrooke — January
Laval and Quebec City — March
Drummondville — August
Mont-Tremblant — September

Seven other Quebec Supercharger projects remain under construction: Deschambault, Brownsburg, Montcerf-Lytton, Chambly, Mirabel, Brossard on Boulevard Lapinière, and Montreal on Rue Jean-Talon Est. That pipeline would more than double the province's Supercharger footprint over the coming year.

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Dodge Charger Daytona EV Vanishes From dodge.ca — Here's Why It Isn't Discontinued

Sat, 07 Nov 2026 18:15:00 GMT

The electric Dodge Charger Daytona is no longer listed on Dodge Canada's website, according to Empty Tank's reporting on November 7. The removal happened in early November, and it's already confusing shoppers browsing dodge.ca who can't find the car at all. The short version: the car is not discontinued — Canadian dealer inventory simply ran out, and the website only shows vehicles currently sitting on dealer lots.

What Stellantis said

Stellantis told Empty Tank that the Charger Daytona was pulled from the Canadian website because dealer inventory of the car is currently out. The site is intended to help customers match with vehicles actually on dealer lots, so an empty lot means no listing. Once Canadian dealers have Charger Daytona inventory again, the car will be restored to the website — though Stellantis did not provide an expected timeline.

What's still available

Gasoline Charger (SIXPACK): remains fully available in Canada, in two- and four-door form, built at the Windsor plant.
Electric Daytona R/T: 496 hp two-door — temporarily unlisted while lots are empty.
Electric Daytona Scat Pack: 670 hp two-door — also unlisted pending restock.

Both the electric and gasoline versions are assembled at Stellantis' Windsor, Ontario plant, so this is purely a distribution hiccup, not a production or tooling issue.

What it means for Canadian buyers

If you're waiting on a 670-hp Scat Pack, the practical move is to call dealers directly and ask about build times — the website being blank tells you nothing about when units ship. The four-door electric Charger, originally expected this year, still hasn't arrived in Canada; only the two-door EV has been offered so far. Until inventory lands, the gasoline SIXPACK remains the only Charger you can actually order through the site.

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Ford Rolls Out 'Privacy Promise' Website Letting Drivers Choose What Data Gets Collected

Sat, 07 Nov 2026 12:45:00 GMT

Ford is rolling out a "Privacy Promise" website that lets connected-car owners select which vehicle data gets collected and shared — a move that comes just days after General Motors agreed to pay US$220 million to settle a multi-state lawsuit over selling driver data collected through its Smart Driver program.

What the Privacy Promise covers

The new Ford portal gives owners granular control over the data their connected vehicle generates — location, driving behaviour, diagnostic telemetry, and usage patterns. Drivers can opt in or out of specific data categories, and Ford says the settings can also be configured "at the dealership" for owners who prefer an in-person setup.

The rollout follows a year of heightened scrutiny on connected-car data practices. In late October, GM was ordered to pay US$220M to settle claims by New York and 35 other states that its Smart Driver program sold personal driving data — including location and braking patterns — to insurance brokers without explicit consent. Oregon Attorney General Dan Rayfield framed it plainly: "People bought a car, not a tracking device."

What it means for Canadian drivers

Canada's federal Privacy Act and PIPEDA already require consent for collection and use of personal data, but enforcement in the automotive sector has been limited. Ford's self-imposed privacy portal sets a practical precedent: it gives owners a simple, granular toggle rather than relying on a buried consent checkbox at purchase.

What's covered: location data, driving-behavior telemetry, diagnostic data, usage patterns
How it works: owner-selectable toggles on the Privacy Promise website; dealership setup also available
Context: follows GM's US$220M settlement; precedes any Canadian regulatory action on connected-car data
Limitation: applies to Ford's connected vehicles; other brands (GM, Tesla, Hyundai, etc.) have their own data policies

For Canadian EV and hybrid owners, the move is a useful signal — but it's brand-specific. If you drive a GM, Hyundai, or Tesla, check your own owner app or privacy settings for data-sharing controls. The broader industry trend is toward greater transparency, but the legal obligation to obtain consent before selling data is already in place under PIPEDA; Ford's portal is a voluntary step beyond that baseline.

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Lincoln Recalls 2,292 Navigators in Canada Over Power Seats That May Move On Their Own

Sat, 07 Nov 2026 12:40:00 GMT

Lincoln is recalling 2,292 Lincoln Navigators in Canada (model years 2025 through 2027) over a software fault that can make the front passenger power seat move on its own and not stop — even if cargo or a passenger is in its path. Transport Canada warns the seat could keep moving into an obstruction, posing a crush hazard, and that reclining seat-backs could trap passengers in the second row depending on how they're seated.

What the defect does

According to Transport Canada, "a problem with the rear audio control module (RACM) could cause the front passenger seat to unexpectedly move forward or backward, or tilt and recline on its own." The control module that should stop a power seat when it detects an obstruction can fail, so the seat continues its motion regardless of what's in the way.

What the fix involves

Vehicles: 2,292 Lincoln Navigators, model years 2025–2027, in Canada
Defect: rear audio control module (RACM) fault causing the front passenger seat to move uncommanded and not stop on obstruction
Remedy: dealer update to the RACM and accessory protocol image module (APIM) software, plus disabling the chauffeur-mode function — free of charge
Campaign: Transport Canada 2026-510 (internal code 26S77)

Owners should bring the Navigator to the nearest Ford or Lincoln dealer for the software update.

A growing pattern in power-seat recalls

This is the latest in a string of power-seat recalls across the industry. Ford recalled thousands of Explorers and Lincoln Aviators in the U.S. this past July over front seats that began reclining on their own and trapping second-row passengers. Two days before this campaign, Lincoln recalled hybrid Nautilus and Corsair models in Canada over an unrelated issue with them suddenly shifting into neutral. Hyundai and Kia also recalled several models after a two-year-old child was crushed and killed by a power seat in a Hyundai Palisade in March 2026, and Cadillac recalled its Vistiq over power third-row seats that could fail to stop.

For Canadian Navigator owners, the practical takeaway is simple: if you get a notification, book the dealer visit promptly. The fix is a software update, but until it's applied, the front passenger seat is the one you should treat as untrusted — especially with children or cargo behind it.

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GM Recalls 2026 Chevrolet Traverse and GMC Acadia in Canada Over Faulty Seat-Back Welds

Sat, 07 Nov 2026 12:35:00 GMT

General Motors is recalling 2026-model-year Chevrolet Traverse and GMC Acadia crossover SUVs over a front-seat defect that could increase the risk of injury in a collision. The campaign covers six vehicles in North America — three Traverse and three Acadia — with two of them Canadian-market examples.

What the defect is

On the affected vehicles, the hinge where the seat-back recliner pivot mechanism meets the driver or front-passenger seat frame may have been welded incorrectly. That can allow the seat-back to move or fully detach from the rest of the seat in a crash, posing an increased injury risk. On three of the six vehicles the bad weld is on the driver's seat; on the other three it's on the passenger seat.

The fix and the details

Vehicles: 2026 Chevrolet Traverse and 2026 GMC Acadia, six total in North America (two in Canada)
Defect: incorrect weld at the seat-back recliner pivot hinge
Remedy: technician replaces the seat-back on the affected side at a Chevrolet-GMC dealership, free of charge
Transport Canada campaign: 2026-512 (GM internal code N262576830)

Owners will be notified by mail. The small count — six vehicles across both brands and both markets — makes this a spot fix rather than a broad campaign, but it's a reminder that seat-assembly weld quality is a safety-critical detail: a detached seat-back in a collision is a serious injury scenario, which is why Transport Canada is tracking it as a formal safety recall rather than a courtesy campaign.

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Toyota Canada Becomes National Mobility Partner of the Canada Games Through 2031

Sat, 07 Nov 2026 12:30:00 GMT

Toyota Canada Inc. has signed a five-year agreement as the official National Mobility Partner of the Canada Games through 2031, the company announced in a press release. The deal spans three events: the Quebec City 2027 Canada Winter Games, the Moncton – Saint John 2029 Canada Summer Games, and the 2031 Winter Games.

What the partnership covers

Under the agreement, Toyota Canada will supply a multi-event fleet of more than 50 vehicles, heavily featuring zero-emission and electrified models, to cover both operational logistics and Games-time transportation. The Canada Games are the country's largest amateur multi-sport event, bringing together able-bodied athletes and athletes with physical and intellectual disabilities across more than 30 sports.

Quebec City 2027 — Canada Winter Games
Moncton – Saint John 2029 — Canada Summer Games
2031 — Canada Winter Games

Follow-through on the 2025 St. John's Games

The deal extends a relationship that started last year: Toyota Canada was the Electrified Fleet Partner for the St. John's 2025 Games. According to Steve Pilkey, Vice President of Sales and Marketing at Toyota Canada, the national partnership lets the brand's dealer network engage local host communities while cutting the environmental footprint of Games transportation.

Why it matters for the Canadian EV market

High-visibility, multi-city EV fleet deployments like the Canada Games are exactly the kind of real-world proof points Canadian provinces and municipalities are looking for when justifying public charging expansion. A 50-plus vehicle zero-emission fleet shuttling athletes across Quebec City in 2027 is a visible test of winter-weather EV range, cold-soak behaviour, and public charging reliability — the same variables that make or break a Canadian EV purchase decision. For fleet buyers watching the 2027 host city, the Games will be a live demonstration of what sustained EV operations look like in Canadian winter conditions.

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Hydro-Québec to Buy Land From Failed Northvolt Battery Plant in Montérégie

Sat, 07 Nov 2026 00:30:00 GMT

Hydro-Québec is moving to buy the land in Montérégie, Quebec that was set aside for Northvolt's electric vehicle battery plant, according to CBC and CityNews reporting on November 6. The state utility's move comes as the Swedish battery maker's North American operations continue to wind down, leaving behind a large industrial site with purpose-built power infrastructure in one of Quebec's key industrial regions.

What happened to the Northvolt Quebec plant

Northvolt had planned a large-scale lithium-ion battery manufacturing facility in the Montérégie region, selling the site on Quebec's abundant hydroelectric power as a competitive advantage for "green" battery production. The Swedish company ran into severe financial trouble and its North American operations have since collapsed, leaving the land and its dedicated power connections in limbo.

The site's most valuable asset is not the building but the power infrastructure: high-capacity grid connections that Hydro-Québec can sell or re-lease to other industrial tenants, or repurpose for provincial clean-energy projects.

Why Hydro-Québec is stepping in

By acquiring the land, the provincial utility keeps a strategically located, power-ready industrial site under provincial control rather than watching it change hands piecemeal. Quebec has been actively courting new EV-battery and clean-tech investment to offset the Northvolt loss, and the Montérégie location — with its existing grid connections — remains one of the most attractive sites in the province for energy-intensive manufacturing.

Location: Montérégie region, Quebec
Original tenant: Northvolt (EV battery plant, never fully operational)
Key asset: Existing high-capacity grid connections from Hydro-Québec
Buyer: Hydro-Québec (provincial crown corporation)
Status: Acquisition announced November 6, 2026

What it means for Canada's EV supply chain

Northvolt's collapse was a significant blow to Canada's ambitions to build a domestic battery supply chain. The Hydro-Québec land acquisition signals that the province is not abandoning its industrial strategy — it is keeping the option open for a new tenant, whether that is another battery maker, a clean-tech manufacturer, or a provincial energy project.

For Canadian EV buyers, the indirect effect is that Quebec's low-cost hydroelectric power remains available as a competitive advantage for future battery and EV component production in the province, keeping the long-term pipeline for domestically produced EV parts alive.

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Lucid Teases Cosmos SUV in New Video Ahead of 2027 Launch

Sat, 07 Nov 2026 00:30:00 GMT

Lucid Motors has teased its upcoming Cosmos midsize electric SUV in a short video shared on X (formerly Twitter) on November 5. The 96-second clip features a brief, shadow-draped reveal of the vehicle's rear, showing the illuminated LUCID lettering flanked by slim taillights, a sloping rear window, and a roof fin. It is the first public visual of the Cosmos since its body-in-white was shown at Lucid's March Investor Day.

What We Know About the Cosmos

The Cosmos is built on Lucid's 800-volt, 69 kWh battery platform, called Atlas, which underpins the company's existing Air sedan and Gravity SUV. CEO Silvio Napoli has stated the vehicle will deliver a driving range exceeding 400 miles on a single charge — a figure that, if verified, would place it among the most efficient midsize EVs on the market.

Positioned below both the Air sedan and Gravity SUV in Lucid's lineup, the Cosmos is expected to start around $50,000, making it Lucid's most affordable vehicle to date. That price point puts it in direct competition with the Tesla Model Y, Rivian R2, and other midsize crossovers arriving in the next two years.

Production Timeline and Global Strategy

Lucid originally promised to reveal the Cosmos in summer 2026, but the timeline has slipped. The vehicle is currently undergoing validation, durability testing, crash certification, and cold-weather testing in New Zealand. Production is now targeted for 2027, and the Cosmos will be the first vehicle produced at Lucid's AMP-2 plant in Saudi Arabia — a significant milestone in the company's international manufacturing strategy.

Platform: 800-volt, 69 kWh Atlas battery architecture
Expected range: Over 400 miles (per CEO Silvio Napoli)
Estimated starting price: ~$50,000 (US)
Production start: 2027 at the AMP-2 plant, Saudi Arabia
Current status: Validation and cold-weather testing in New Zealand

What It Means for Canadian Buyers

No Canadian pricing has been confirmed yet, but a US starting price near $50,000 would place the Cosmos in a competitive bracket for Canadian EV shoppers, particularly when combined with the federal iZEV rebate of up to $5,000 for eligible vehicles under the $50,000 threshold. If the 400+ mile range claim holds up in independent testing, it would address one of the most persistent range-anxiety concerns for Canadian drivers, particularly in colder climates.

Lucid's decision to produce the Cosmos in Saudi Arabia raises questions about shipping timelines and potential supply-chain implications for North American deliveries. However, the company's 800-volt architecture and claimed efficiency could make the Cosmos a serious contender in the midsize EV segment when it arrives in 2027.

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Plug-in Cars Hit 28% of Global Sales as Canada Reaches 13% Penetration

Sat, 07 Nov 2026 00:30:00 GMT

Plug-in electric vehicles have now reached 28% of global new-car sales, according to a MarketScale industry report published November 6, with Canada's market penetration climbing to 13%. The milestone marks a structural shift in the auto industry: plug-in vehicles are no longer a niche segment but a mainstream product category that dealers, manufacturers, and infrastructure providers must plan around.

The global and Canadian numbers

The 28% global figure represents a significant acceleration from the roughly 18–20% range seen in early 2025, driven by a combination of falling battery costs, expanding model availability, and government incentive programs in Europe and Asia. Canada's 13% share, while below the global average, reflects a rapid uptick from single-digit penetration in 2024 and positions the country as one of the fastest-growing EV markets in North America.

Global plug-in share: 28% of new vehicle sales
Canada plug-in share: 13% of new vehicle sales
Drivers: Falling battery costs, expanded model range, government incentives
Canada-specific tailwinds: iZEV rebate (up to $5,000), provincial EV programs, expanding charging network

What the 13% figure means for Canadian EV owners

As Canada's plug-in penetration approaches one in eight new vehicles, the practical implications for owners are becoming more tangible. Charging infrastructure — both public DCFC and residential Level 2 — is scaling to meet demand, and the federal government's $587 million EV charging infrastructure program (announced in Budget 2026) targets more than 55,000 additional chargers in underserved areas over five years.

For Canadian buyers still weighing an EV purchase, the 13% milestone signals that the used-EV market is deepening, parts and service networks are expanding, and resale value curves are stabilizing. The segment that was once an "early adopter" category is now a mainstream purchasing decision on par with hybrid and internal-combustion vehicles.

Outlook

Analysts expect Canada's plug-in share to approach 18–20% by mid-2027, supported by the arrival of new affordable models (including Lucid's sub-$50,000 Cosmos SUV in 2027 and expanded Chinese-brand imports under the 49,000-unit annual quota). The combination of falling vehicle prices, expanding charging networks, and sustained policy support makes the next 18 months a critical window for Canadian EV market consolidation.

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Maninder Sidhu Visits Chery Plant in Wuhu, Igniting Union Firestorm Over Canadian Auto Jobs

Fri, 06 Nov 2026 21:30:00 GMT

International Trade Minister Maninder Sidhu's recent visit to the Chery auto plant in Wuhu, China, has triggered a sharp political and labor backlash in Canada. While Sidhu framed the trip as a diplomatic effort to "hear about their plans to introduce affordable EVs to Canadians," Unifor President Lana Payne and the Canadian Automotive Parts Association (CAPA) are warning that such courtesies to Chinese manufacturers threaten the viability of domestic auto production.

The "Sell Here, Build Here" Push

Unifor, representing thousands of auto workers in Ontario, has intensified its "Sell Here, Build Here" campaign in direct response to Prime Minister Mark Carney's trade deal with Beijing. The deal allows up to 49,000 electric vehicles per year into Canada at a reduced 6.1% tariff rate. Payne argued in Oshawa that this quota is a "self-inflicted wound" to an already injured industry, noting that the government has provided a "built-in escalator" for Chinese EV market share.

Unifor's Stance: Companies accessing the Canadian market must invest in local job creation and manufacturing.
CAPA's Warning: CAPA President Flavio Volpe stated that courting Chinese automakers should not be a federal priority, emphasizing the need to support the five existing Canadian assembly plants and their hundreds of suppliers.
Brampton Context: The controversy is particularly sensitive in Sidhu's home riding of Brampton East, where the idled Stellantis plant remains a focal point for job security concerns.

Implications for the Canadian EV Market

The friction between federal trade strategy and labor interests highlights a core tension in Canada's EV transition. While the Carney government aims to broaden consumer choice and lower prices through the Chinese quota, labor leaders argue that the long-term industrial base is at risk. As the first wave of Chinese-made EVs arrives in Canadian ports, the debate over whether to prioritize import volume or domestic manufacturing resilience will likely dominate the political landscape heading into 2027.

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Linus Tech Tips Tests Tesla FSD (Supervised) in Canada — First Impression from a Major Tech YouTuber

Fri, 06 Nov 2026 21:30:00 GMT

Linus Sebastian, the Canadian founder of Linus Tech Tips (16.9 million YouTube subscribers), published a hands-on FSD (Supervised) video on November 6, 2026. Driving a Hardware 4 Tesla Model 3 in Canada, Sebastian described the highway experience as "pretty darn impressive" but flagged a concerning intersection incident that underscores the system's limitations in complex urban scenarios.

The good: highway driving

Sebastian reported zero steering interventions on highway segments, a notable result for a driver he described as a "Tesla skeptic." The lane-keeping, speed management, and lane-change behaviour on multi-lane highways was, by his account, indistinguishable from a cautious human driver.

The concerning moment

Around the 26-minute mark, the Model 3 signalled a right turn at an intersection but continued straight while another vehicle turned left across its path. Sebastian had to brake and disengage FSD. He noted the car may have lacked a destination in navigation, which could have limited the system's decision-making — but he also pointed out that the system had already been driving well for over 25 minutes before the incident, suggesting the issue was situational, not a setup error.

Vehicle: Tesla Model 3, Hardware 4 (HW4)
Software: FSD Supervised (not full autonomy)
Location: Canadian roads (specific city not specified in the video)
Key takeaway: Highway performance is strong; complex urban intersections remain a weak point

Why this matters for Canadian FSD adoption

Linus Tech Tips is one of the most-watched tech channels in Canada and North America. A video of a 16.9-million-subscriber channel testing FSD in Canadian conditions — complete with a real-world failure — is more influential than any Tesla press release. It normalises FSD for a mainstream audience while honestly showing the current limits. For Canadian EV buyers weighing a Model 3 or Model Y purchase, this video is likely to reduce the "it's still experimental" objection for highway commuters while reinforcing that full urban autonomy is not yet here.

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Polestar Raises Canadian EV Bonus to C$15,000 as Monthly Payments Hold Steady

Fri, 06 Nov 2026 21:30:00 GMT

Polestar has raised its Canadian EV purchase incentive to C$15,000, according to reporting from Electric Vehicles.com on November 6. The manufacturer is holding monthly lease payments steady at the same time, effectively giving buyers a larger upfront discount without increasing their recurring cost of ownership.

What the bonus covers

The C$15,000 incentive applies to select Polestar models available in the Canadian market. Because the bonus is a manufacturer-funded incentive rather than a government rebate, it stacks on top of any provincial or federal EV purchase credits a buyer may qualify for. For context, Ottawa's federal iZEV rebate caps at $5,000 for eligible vehicles priced under roughly $50,000, meaning a Polestar 2 buyer could see a combined discount approaching C$20,000 in the right configuration.

Why now

The move comes as Polestar navigates a shifting competitive landscape. With Tesla's Supercharger network expanding across Canada and Chinese-made EVs entering the market under the 49,000-unit annual quota, Polestar is under pressure to defend its premium-EV share. Holding monthly payments constant while inflating the upfront bonus is a classic tactic to attract cash buyers without cannibalising the lease pipeline.

Upfront incentive: C$15,000 off the sticker price on qualifying trims.
Lease pricing: Monthly payments unchanged from the prior pricing cycle.
Stacking potential: Buyers who also qualify for the C$5,000 federal iZEV rebate can combine both incentives.

What it means for Canadian buyers

For shoppers weighing a Polestar 2 or Polestar 3 against a Tesla Model Y or Hyundai Ioniq 5, the widened bonus narrows the effective price gap considerably. It also signals that Polestar is prioritising Canadian market share over short-term margin — a strategy that mirrors its earlier C$15,000 price cut announced in September when the brand confirmed its U.S. exit for 2027.

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