Electrify Canada’s Rob Barrosa discusses zero-emission vehicle adoption and what Canadians should look for in an electric vehicle charging station.
Why is zero-emission vehicle (ZEV) adoption so important?
With the goal of having all light-duty vehicles sold in Canada to be zero-emissions by 2035, facilitating ZEV adoption is an immediate priority. The level of infrastructure needed to support a fully electric future is vast, and Electrify Canada is working to support this switch by providing convenient, reliable ultra-fast direct current (DC) charging infrastructure across the country.
Electrify Canada has future-proofed the network by offering the fastest charging speeds available to date – 150kW and 350kW to support battery capabilities and charging needs of today and tomorrow. The only open network to make Plug & Charge payment technology available, Electrify Canada believes this technology is a critical for a seamless charging experience and ease of use for the customer.
How is Electrify Canada helping to promote ZEV adoption in Canada?
Electrify Canada aims to promote greater Zero-Emission Vehicle (ZEV) adoption by offering transformative, customer-centric, future-proof infrastructure for the EV charging needs of today and tomorrow.
We are building range confidence for consumers through the expansion of our ultra-fast charging network. By 2026, Electrify Canada expects to have more than 100 charging stations with over 500 chargers across the country.
To encourage mass EV adoption, charging also needs to be as fast and convenient as fueling a gas vehicle. All Electrify Canada stations include ultra-fast direct current (DC) chargers, so drivers can stop, charge up and be on their way quickly!
Electrify Canada also offers a home charging solution called HomeStation. HomeStation is WI-FI capable and syncs with our mobile app for seamless charging at home or on our public network. With 9.6kW of available power at 40 amps, HomeStation can charge 6.8x faster than a Level 1 charger.
What should Canadians look for in an electric vehicle charging station?
When looking for an EV charging station, Canadians should keep in mind convenience and fast charging speeds for a smooth and reliable charging experience before getting back on the road quickly.
Electrify Canada’s network is compatible with most vehicles with CCS inlets and charging stations are strategically located in places people already visit, such as shopping centres or along major highways. Our technology offers the fastest charging in Canada, with speeds of 150kW and 350kW, meaning capable vehicles can charge in as little as 30 minutes. Each charging station is equipped with at least 4 chargers with an overhead canopy, providing shelter and additional lighting to improve the customer experience.
What does Electrify Canada have planned for the next few years?
Last July, Electrify Canada announced its “Boost” plans for expansion, upping our original commitment to more than 100 charging locations and 500 ultra-fast chargers by 2026. Bolstering our network in British Columbia, Alberta, Ontario, and Quebec and adding stations in the provinces of Saskatchewan, Manitoba, New Brunswick, Nova Scotia and Prince Edward Island, providing the ability for most electric vehicles to travel from Halifax, Nova Scotia in the east, along an Electrify Canada route to Victoria, British Columbia in the west.
Along with our commitment to expand and increase accessibility to ultra-fast charging, Electrify Canada also continues to invest in charging technology to better the driver experience and develop futureproof infrastructure, working with local utilities and EV automakers, to further drive ZEV adoption and allow Canadians to confidently make the switch to electric.
Author: Rob Barrosa, Senior Director of Sales, Business Development and Marketing, Electrify Canada & Electrify America
