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Welcome to The EV North - a weekly newsletter that brings together some of the biggest EV news stories and delivers them to your inbox. There is a focus on Canada & North America but you’ll also find EV news from around the world!

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In this issue:

• Canada’s EV Sales Defy Slowdown, But Supply Chain Challenges Persist.

• CAA Winter Test Reveals EV Range and Charging Performance in Cold Weather.

• Trump Administration's EV Policy Changes Stir Controversy.

• DS N°8 All-Electric Flagship Now Open for Orders.

• 2025 Jeep Wagoneer S Limited Expands Lineup with Lower Price and Optional Power Boost.

• + more!

Canada

Canada’s EV Sales Defy Slowdown, But Supply Chain Challenges Persist.

Despite reports of slowing global EV growth, Canada’s electric vehicle adoption continues to rise, reaching a record 16.5% of new vehicle registrations in Q3 2024. While the suspension of the federal iZEV incentive program may affect 2025 sales, long-term momentum remains strong as zero-emission vehicle mandates push automakers to expand EV offerings and introduce more affordable models.

Although EV sales growth has slowed compared to previous years for North America demand remains steady. Analysts argue that the real challenge isn’t consumer interest but a lack of cost-effective options. Automakers and battery manufacturers have adjusted production plans, with some using reports of weaker sales to secure additional government funding for the transition.

Supply chain concerns continue to impact Canada’s ambitions to become a key EV manufacturing hub. Battery maker Umicore recently paused construction of a plant in Ontario, citing lower-than-expected demand. While setbacks highlight uncertainty in the industry, experts say they do not reflect the broader market, as battery manufacturers experience different supply and demand dynamics.

Government investment remains a driving force behind Canada’s EV sector. Federal and provincial governments have secured $100 billion in public and private investment to build up domestic EV production, including agreements with Volkswagen and Honda. However, many of these projects have yet to begin, and some subsidies tied to production volumes may be lower than initially expected due to slower EV sales.

With a federal election on the horizon, the future of Canada’s EV policies remains uncertain. While current investments have positioned the country as a key player in the global EV transition, potential policy shifts could impact long-term manufacturing goals. Industry leaders warn that rolling back EV incentives and supply chain investments could stall progress, just as Canada establishes itself even further in 2025.

Are you on Reddit? Check out our subreddit at https://reddit.com/r/evcanada 

CAA Winter Test Reveals EV Range and Charging Performance in Cold Weather.

The Canadian Automobile Association (CAA) conducted a real-world winter EV performance test, measuring range loss and charging speeds in sub-zero temperatures. Fourteen EVs, representing the majority of Canada’s EV sales, were driven from Ottawa to Mont Tremblant in conditions ranging from -7°C to -15°C.

EVs in the test experienced a range reduction of 14% to 39% compared to their official NRCan ratings. The Chevrolet Silverado EV and Polestar 2 performed best, losing only 14% of their estimated range. On the other end, the Volvo XC40 Recharge and Toyota bZ4X saw the greatest impact, with range reductions of nearly 40%.

Results provided by CAA.

This data confirms what many Canadian drivers already suspect: winter conditions significantly affect EV efficiency, making real-world range testing critical for buyers. CAA advocates for a standardized Canadian labeling system to include winter-specific range ratings instead of a single, year-round estimate.

Charging speed was another key concern, as extreme cold is known to slow down DC fast charging rates. On average, EVs added 100 km of range in 15 minutes of fast charging, with significant variations between models. The Tesla Model 3 charged the fastest, gaining 205 km in 15 minutes, while the Toyota bZ4X was the slowest, adding just 19 km in the same timeframe.

Results provided by CAA.

CAA’s survey found that 40% of EV drivers report significantly slower charging in winter, and over half prefer using a gas vehicle for long trips in extreme cold. These findings highlight the importance of choosing an EV with strong charging capabilities for cold climates.

To mitigate winter range loss, CAA suggests:

• Preconditioning – Warm up the battery while plugged in before driving.

• Clearing Snow – Reduce aerodynamic drag and weight by removing excess snow.

• Using Heated Seats – More energy-efficient than heating the entire cabin.

• Parking Indoors – Helps maintain battery temperature and improves charging speeds.

As EV adoption grows in Canada, real-world winter testing will be essential for helping drivers make informed choices. CAA’s study reinforces that while EVs can handle cold weather, range loss and slower charging remain major factors to consider, especially for long-distance winter travel.

With government incentives shifting and EV technology evolving, data-driven insights like this will help shape the future of electric mobility in Canada.

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EV Around the World 🌏

Trump Administration's EV Policy Changes Stir Controversy.

The Trump administration has recently suspended the National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (NEVI) program, a $5 billion initiative established under the 2021 infrastructure law to develop a nationwide EV charging network. This suspension has halted funding for new projects, requiring states to resubmit their plans once updated guidance is issued. Existing projects will continue to receive reimbursements to prevent financial disruptions.

This decision has drawn criticism from various stakeholders, including automakers and EV charging companies. The Electric Drive Transportation Association (EDTA), representing members such as General Motors, Toyota, and EVgo, has urged the administration to promptly resume the program to minimize uncertainty for states and businesses investing in EV infrastructure.

Legal experts question the legality of the suspension, noting that the NEVI funding was appropriated by Congress and cannot be canceled by the executive branch. This action may face legal challenges, as it could violate the Impoundment Control Act of 1974, which restricts presidents from withholding congressionally approved funding.

Despite the federal funding freeze, private companies like Tesla and Ionna continue to expand their charging networks independently. However, the suspension introduces uncertainty into the EV market and may hinder the broader adoption of electric vehicles in the United States.

In addition to the NEVI program suspension, President Trump has proposed repealing tax credits under the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) for EV battery production. Ford Motor Co. CEO Jim Farley expressed concerns that this repeal could lead to significant job losses and increased manufacturing costs due to tariffs on materials like aluminum and steel. Ford has invested heavily in battery production plants across several states, and the loss of these tax credits could impact the affordability and competitiveness of their EVs.

These policy changes have created uncertainty within the EV industry, potentially affecting investment decisions and the pace of infrastructure development critical for supporting the growing number of electric vehicles on American roads.

DS N°8 All-Electric Flagship Now Open for Orders.

DS Automobiles has unveiled its latest all-electric flagship, the DS N°8, drawing inspiration from the DS AERO SPORT LOUNGE concept. This model embodies a modern take on French luxury automotive design, coinciding with the 70th anniversary of the original 1955 DS.

The DS N°8 features sleek, tapered lines, meticulously crafted for aerodynamic efficiency. Innovations such as the DS LUMINASCREEN illuminated grille and DS LIGHTBLADE elements enhance both aesthetics and airflow, contributing to an impressive drag coefficient (Cx) of 0.24.

Available in three electric powertrains—230 hp, 245 hp, and a dual-motor 350 hp all-wheel drive—the DS N°8 offers dynamic performance. The front-wheel-drive models can receive a power boost via over-the-air updates, increasing output by up to 35 hp. Acceleration for the all-wheel-drive variant is swift, reaching 0 to 100 km/h in 5.4 seconds, with all models electronically limited to a top speed of 190 km/h.

Two battery options are offered: a 74 kWh unit for the 230 hp model and a 97.2 kWh pack for the 245 hp and 350 hp versions. The 245 hp front-wheel-drive Long Range model boasts a combined WLTP range of 750 km, extending to 909 km in urban settings. Fast charging capabilities allow a 20% to 80% charge in 27 minutes, equating to approximately 450 km of regained range; a quick 10-minute charge adds about 200 km.

Inside, the DS N°8 exudes French luxury with features like Nappa leather watchstrap upholstery and Clous de Paris embossed accents. A panoramic glass roof enhances the cabin's ambiance. The DS IRIS SYSTEM 2.0 infotainment system, accessible via a 16-inch touchscreen, offers advanced connectivity, including integration with services like ChatGPT and real-time EV routing.

In France, the DS N°8 is available in two trims: PALLAS and ÉTOILE. Approximate pricing in CAD is as follows:

• PALLAS FWD: $85,000

• PALLAS FWD Long Range: $91,000

• ÉTOILE FWD: $96,000

• ÉTOILE FWD Long Range: $103,000

• ÉTOILE AWD Long Range: $108,000

The DS N°8 is now available for order, offering a blend of advanced technology, performance, and French luxury craftsmanship.

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2025 Jeep Wagoneer S Limited Expands Lineup with Lower Price and Optional Power Boost.

Jeep is expanding its first all-electric SUV lineup with the 2025 Wagoneer S Limited, introduced at the Chicago Auto Show. Priced at $66,995 USD, the Limited edition costs $5,000 USD less than the Launch Edition while retaining the same 100-kWh battery and estimated 485 km (303-mile) range (EPA rating pending). Fast charging allows the battery to go from 20% to 80% in 23 minutes. Buyers also receive a 48-amp Level 2 home charger or equivalent charging credits.

The Wagoneer S Limited features 500 hp and 520 lb-ft of torque as standard, but owners can unlock 600 hp and 617 lb-ft via an optional over-the-air (OTA) update later in the model year. This power makes it Jeep’s quickest vehicle ever.

Design updates include machined aluminum 20-inch wheels, a black roof, and mirror caps, differentiating it from the gloss-black wheels on the Launch Edition. Inside, buyers can opt for a three-screen layout featuring a 12.3-inch central display, a 12.3-inch instrument cluster, and a 10.2-inch front-passenger screen. Standard features include a dual-pane panoramic sunroof and 10-way power-adjustable heated front seats, while a McIntosh premium audio system is available as an upgrade.

While Jeep has yet to announce an off-road-ready Trailhawk version, the Wagoneer S Limited strengthens the brand’s growing EV lineup with a competitive blend of performance, technology, and luxury.

QuickEV

• The Electric BMW M3 Will Sound Like A Gas Car Inside.

• Tesla Cybertruck gets 5-star NHTSA rating.

• [VIDEO] YD Shark Conquer Australian Sand Dunes.

• Rivian starts selling electric vans to customers other than Amazon.

• [VIDEO] Yangwang U9 super car performs race driving unmanned.

• Canadian fund writes down Northvolt investment.

• Tesla Drivers Are The Worst In The Country: Study.

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