Even though the gap between gasoline and electric cars is narrowing when it comes to comparable models, federal and state purchasing (or leasing) subsidies are making a big difference.
These (non-taxable) subsidies are primarily aimed at “affordable” vehicles. In the province, the manufacturer’s suggested retail price is $65,000. Nationwide, the price ranges from $55,000 (sedans) to $60,000 (SUVs, minivans, pickup trucks).
As for the Quebec Roulez Vert program, the subsidy applies to new electric vehicles (subsidy of $7,000), hybrid or plug-in or rechargeable hybrid vehicles (between $300 and $5,000) that have never been outside the province La Belle were approved.
At the federal level, the Zero Emission Vehicle Purchase Incentive ($5,000 grant) applies to new 100% electric, hybrid, or plug-in vehicles.
Some models are only eligible for the state subsidy (e.g. Tesla). Otherwise, federal and state subsidies add up.
The amount of funding varies depending on battery capacity and vehicle model. How to find the lists of eligible vehicles (updated regularly):
• Ottawa: bit.ly/45PrmxR
• Quebec: bit.ly/472Qmmc
Most manufacturers offer to deduct subsidies directly from the purchase price. Please note that they are ACCORDING to various fees and taxes. With certain manufacturers such as Tesla, however, the buyer must contact the government themselves.
Remember
At the provincial level, you can also receive a subsidy to purchase an electric motorcycle ($2,000) or an electric scooter ($500).
Both governments provide subsidies for long-term rental of new vehicles. The rental contract must be at least 12 months, but the subsidy varies depending on the length of the contract.
Governments do not take into account the actual cost of the vehicle when adding options such as a luggage rack, a specific color, delivery or transportation costs.
You can also benefit from a Quebec subsidy for the purchase and installation of a private charging station, up to $600 if the total bill exceeds this amount (List of eligible terminals: bit.ly/3tMfGhY).
Several cities such as Laval, Sherbrooke and many municipalities in the Montreal suburbs offer such a subsidy (up to a maximum of between $100 and $500; list of municipalities: bit.ly/2PfrqCz).
Finally, some companies (like Cascades or Boralex) offer their employees additional grants ranging from $1,000 to $2,000 depending on the vehicle type and condition (used or new). At the end of 2022, 350 Cascades employees had made the jump to electric.