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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:

• Update on EV Rebates in Canada for 2025.

• How P.E.I. Could Boost EV Sales Further by Following Quebec and B.C.’s Lead.

• Volvo and Polestar EV Owners in Canada Now Gain Access to Tesla’s Supercharger Network.

• Scout Motors Revives an Iconic Brand with All-Electric SUVs and Trucks.

• Cadillac Unveils 2026 LYRIQ-V: The First Electric SUV to Earn the V-Series Badge.

• Xiaomi Sets New Nürburgring Record with the SU7 Ultra Prototype.

• Aptera Hits Major Milestone with First Production-Intent Solar EV for Real-World Testing.

• + more!

Canada

Update on EV Rebates in Canada for 2025.

As Canada ramps up efforts to increase EV adoption, changes are on the horizon for many rebate programs across the country. While some provinces are scaling back, others are committing to sustaining incentives for the near future. Here's a breakdown of what you need to know for 2025.

Federal EV Incentive Program

The Canadian federal government currently offers a $5,000 rebate on battery-electric vehicles (BEVs) through the Incentives for Zero-Emission Vehicles (iZEV) program. However, eligibility tightened in October 2024, now requiring vehicles to be Canadian-made or imported from free-trade partners. The iZEV program is set to expire on March 31, 2025, unless renewed. Next year’s federal budget, expected in April 2025, may bring clarity on its future. As of July 2024, ZEVs represent 13.7% of Canada’s new light-duty vehicle registrations, highlighting growing adoption rates.

Quebec's Roulez Vert Rebate Adjustments

Quebec’s long-running Roulez vert program has fostered one of the country’s highest EV adoption rates. The program, stackable with federal incentives, initially offered rebates of up to $8,000. Now, rebates are being gradually reduced: EV buyers in 2025 will receive $4,000, dropping to $2,000 by 2026, with the program ending in 2027. This scale-back reflects Quebec’s confidence in a maturing EV market.

British Columbia’s CleanBC Program Updates

British Columbia has modified eligibility for its CleanBC rebate. The MSRP cap for qualifying vehicles dropped from $55,000 to $50,000 in June 2024. Additionally, rebates are now income-based, with individuals earning above $100,000 ineligible. Although no changes have been announced for 2025, the program’s high demand may prompt future adjustments. CleanBC rebates, available since 2011, can still be combined with federal incentives.

Newfoundland and Labrador’s EV Incentives

Newfoundland and Labrador Hydro’s $2,500 EV rebate applies to vehicles purchased locally and remains stackable with the federal rebate. The program expanded in 2023 to include used BEVs, though it will conclude on March 15, 2025. After this date, Newfoundland and Labrador residents will no longer have a provincial EV rebate.

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How P.E.I. Could Boost EV Sales Further by Following Quebec and B.C.’s Lead.

Prince Edward Island is showing impressive growth in EV adoption, yet remains behind leading provinces like British Columbia and Quebec. With a few strategic moves, P.E.I. could strengthen its EV sales even more, potentially achieving broader adoption and setting itself up for a greener future.

In 2017, P.E.I. had only 46 EVs on the road. However, with the introduction of the $5,000 provincial rebate in 2021, on top of the federal government’s $5,000 incentive, EV registrations surged. The rebate program has nearly doubled the adoption rates for plug-in hybrids and tripled registrations for battery-only EVs.

Despite incentives, EV availability is a challenge in P.E.I., with consumers facing long waits and limited options for test drives. Supply constraints have slowed adoption, a reality echoed by Adam Toner, president of the P.E.I. Automobile Dealers Association, who emphasizes that manufacturers need to provide a more robust and affordable EV lineup to meet demand.

Quebec and B.C. have the largest percent of EV sales in Canada, with approximately one in 30 vehicles in these provinces being plug-in electric. These provinces have excelled by combining demand-driven incentives (consumer rebates) with supply-side regulations that require automakers to meet minimum EV sales quotas. These policies ensure a steady EV supply and incentivize automakers to prioritize the Canadian market.

Jeff Turner, clean transportation expert at Dunsky Energy and Climate Advisors, notes that Quebec and B.C.’s approach of investing early in charging infrastructure also made it easier for consumers to adopt EVs. Their experience shows how supply-side regulations, combined with financial incentives, can make a significant impact.

The Canadian government has set ambitious targets, requiring 20% of new vehicle sales to be electric by 2026, and 100% by 2035. However, these targets are national, not provincial, so they may not directly benefit smaller markets like P.E.I., where larger provinces could monopolize vehicle supply.

While P.E.I. currently has no plans to introduce supply-side regulations, the provincial government’s Office of Net Zero is developing a five-year action plan to assess its progress on climate goals, including reducing transportation emissions. This plan may play a role in ensuring P.E.I. stays aligned with federal goals and meets its net-zero ambitions.

Similar to P.E.I. other smaller provinces such as New Brunswick, Newfoundland, and Nova Scotia face supply issues as the larger provinces take the bulk of Canadian EV supply.

Volvo and Polestar EV Owners in Canada Now Gain Access to Tesla’s Supercharger Network.

The Tesla’s Supercharger network, the largest and most reliable fast-charging system, will now be accessible to Volvo and Polestar owners across Canada. This provides Canadian Volvo and Polestar EV owners with access to more than 17,800 Superchargers, making long-distance travel and everyday charging much easier and more convenient.

For Canadian Volvo and Polestar drivers, accessing Tesla’s Supercharger network has long been a wish, with Tesla stations frequently being the most available, easy-to-use, and consistently maintained chargers across the country. Now, thanks to a recent agreement, Volvo and Polestar—two Swedish brands under the Geely Group—will join Ford, GM, and other automakers in adopting Tesla’s North American Charging Standard (NACS). This will allow Canadians driving these EVs to use the Supercharger network and eliminate some of the challenges that come with non-Tesla chargers in Canada.

Starting with the 2025 Volvo EX90, EX40, and EC40 models, a Tesla adapter will come standard with each new vehicle, giving Canadian buyers an out-of-the-box solution for Tesla Supercharging. Current owners in Canada can order adapters from Volvo dealerships for $310 CAD, with the first shipments to retailers starting November 18, 2024.

Similarly, Polestar owners in Canada—including those driving the Polestar 2 sedan, Polestar 3 crossover, and the upcoming Polestar 4—can also order the adapters for $310 CAD through Polestar Service Points, with mid-November as the expected delivery date. Polestar will even update its in-car Google Maps navigation to display NACS-compatible Supercharger locations, making it even easier for Canadian drivers to find reliable charging options on the go.

The shift to Tesla’s NACS plug aligns Canada’s EV charging infrastructure with a universal standard that has been steadily gaining traction across North America. Tesla's Supercharger network, built and maintained by Tesla, has earned its reputation as the most reliable charging option, which is particularly valuable in Canada, where EV drivers frequently experience challenges with other networks due to inconsistent availability, varied charging speeds, and limited charging stations in more remote areas.

The Canadian EV market, though still evolving, has seen significant strides in EV adoption, with the federal government aiming for 20% of all light-duty vehicle sales to be electric by 2026. For provinces like Quebec and British Columbia, which lead the nation in EV sales, Tesla Supercharger access for Volvo and Polestar owners aligns well with the push for a unified and efficient EV charging standard, especially as the NACS is expected to become a North American standard under SAE J3400. With NACS adoption, Volvo and Polestar owners across Canada will be able to seamlessly charge on the same infrastructure that Tesla owners rely on.

Canada’s extensive geography and colder climate make reliable and accessible fast charging critical for EV adoption. Tesla’s Supercharger network, known for its stability and ease of use, is an ideal match for Canadian drivers who often need dependable infrastructure for long journeys and rural travel. Unlike many other charging networks, Tesla Superchargers benefit from integrated software and component control, which has allowed Tesla to avoid the reliability issues that other networks often face.

While there have been some industry-wide challenges with adapters, such as delays with GM and Ford’s adapter rollouts, Volvo and Polestar aim for a smooth process to bring NACS adapters to Canadian dealerships. Canadian drivers can expect reliable performance, and as NACS becomes more common, even broader EV charging access across the country.

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Scout Motors Revives an Iconic Brand with All-Electric SUVs and Trucks.

Scout Motors is making a comeback, reintroducing the classic American off-road brand as a line of all-electric vehicles tailored for modern drivers. Scout revealed its Terra truck and Traveler SUV concepts, rugged EVs set to hit the market by 2027, starting at an estimated price under $60,000 USD before incentives.

Once a pioneer in the sport utility vehicle (SUV) sector, Scout Motors, now under the Volkswagen Group, is banking on the growing EV market and unique landscape. The new Terra and Traveler models are built on a body-on-frame structure with an original EV platform, designed to give drivers the range, durability, and off-road performance needed for diverse terrains. Scout Motors CEO Scott Keogh describes it as “heritage meets ingenuity,” bringing a blend of nostalgia and innovation.

The Terra and Traveler EVs are designed with powerful capabilities suited for both urban and rural environments:

Heavy-Duty Towing: The Traveler SUV can tow over 7,000 pounds, and the Terra truck more than 10,000 pounds, making them ideal for those with recreational or work-related towing needs.

All-Weather, All-Terrain Build: Body-on-frame chassis, solid rear axle, and mechanical lockers ensure rugged off-road performance.

Range Options for Distances: Fully electric trims will offer up to 350 miles of range, while an extended-range model with a small gas-powered generator can go beyond 500 miles, ideal for remote locales.

Bidirectional Charging: With vehicle-to-home capabilities, the Terra and Traveler offer energy storage options useful during power outages or camping trips.

Keogh’s vision for Scout’s new EVs departs from the sleek, touchscreen-heavy interiors of many modern EVs. Instead, the Terra and Traveler bring back a tactile, physical connection to the vehicle, featuring bench seats, mechanical dials, and grab handles. Dubbed the “Connection Machine,” this approach emphasizes the feeling of control and engagement, allowing passengers to share the experience—a nod to the social aspect of travel that appeals to many EV drivers.

Scout Motors is adopting a zonal vehicle architecture, a system popularized by Tesla and recently adopted by Rivian, to provide long-term upgradability and reduce maintenance costs. This setup allows over-the-air updates and enhances the vehicle’s ability to adapt to future technological advancements, offering drivers a forward-thinking EV platform that stands out in terms of durability and software integration.

Interestingly, Scout’s Terra and Traveler will run on a proprietary body-on-frame EV platform rather than borrowing Volkswagen’s existing MEB platform. This move allows Scout to create a rugged, off-road-ready platform without the constraints of adapting existing VW designs. With VW’s support, Scout can retain its unique brand identity while leveraging components like drive units from its parent company to ensure reliability. This decision reflects Scout’s dedication to producing vehicles purpose-built for off-road use, camping, and everyday utility.

To tackle the issue of range anxiety, Scout has opted for a gas-powered range extender. This generator charges the battery without directly powering the engine, providing confidence for long drives in rural areas or during extreme weather conditions. By blending battery power with a small fossil fuel backup, Scout introduces a transitional EV solution that bridges full electrification and traditional truck utility.

The design of the Terra and Traveler draws inspiration from classic off-road brands while remaining modern and stylish. Keogh explains that the goal was to find a balance, creating a look that’s both recognizable and fresh, without veering into the hyper-futuristic aesthetics seen in some competitors. Drivers will appreciate this middle ground, as it’s tailored for those who value tradition but also want a vehicle that stands out.

Cadillac Unveils 2026 LYRIQ-V: The First Electric SUV to Earn the V-Series Badge.

Cadillac has officially confirmed the debut of its first electric V-Series vehicle, the 2026 LYRIQ-V, set to arrive in 2025. This upcoming electric SUV will be the first EV in Cadillac’s lineup to carry the brand's iconic V-Series badge, marking a significant milestone for both Cadillac and General Motors.

Key Highlights of the 2026 Cadillac LYRIQ-V:

Arrival Date: Slated for early 2025, the LYRIQ-V will launch as a 2026 model.

Power and Performance: While specific power figures remain under wraps, experts anticipate an increase over the standard LYRIQ’s dual-motor all-wheel-drive powertrain, which currently delivers up to 500 hp and 450 lb-ft of torque.

Subtle Design Changes: Teaser photos suggest refined styling updates, yet maintain the LYRIQ’s sophisticated look.

Since the original CTS-V sedan in 2004, Cadillac's “V” badge has represented top-tier performance. The V-Series has evolved over two decades, with high-performance variants of the CT4, CT5, and Escalade. The LYRIQ-V will be the first to bring this legacy into the electric era.

Expected upgrades for the LYRIQ-V include enhanced chassis tuning for a sportier driving experience, consistent with Cadillac’s performance-oriented V-Series philosophy. Cadillac aims to offer the LYRIQ-V across multiple international markets, including the U.S., Canada, Australia, and New Zealand, with plans to expand further.

The LYRIQ’s introduction as Cadillac’s first all-electric model in 2023 marked the brand’s commitment to EV innovation, initially built on GM’s Ultium platform. Alongside the LYRIQ, Cadillac’s growing electric lineup includes models like the entry-level Optiq, the three-row Vistiq, the luxurious Celestiq sedan, and the Escalade IQ. Future V-Series editions of these models could provide even more excitement for performance enthusiasts.

With the V-Series now celebrating its 20th anniversary, Cadillac is pushing its performance sub-brand into the EV era. V-Series EVs will boast thrilling acceleration, competitive range, and standard all-wheel drive, all while upholding Cadillac’s legacy of luxury, power, and innovation. John Roth, Global Cadillac Vice President, describes the LYRIQ-V as "a remarkable representation of the Cadillac brand's luxury, performance, and innovation."

As Cadillac advances towards a potentially all-electric lineup, the LYRIQ-V sets a new benchmark, blending the power and luxury that V-Series fans have come to expect with the sustainability and instant power of electric vehicles.

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Xiaomi Sets New Nürburgring Record with the SU7 Ultra Prototype.

Xiaomi has broken the Nürburgring Nordschleife record for the fastest four-door vehicle with its high-performance SU7 Ultra prototype. British racing driver David Pittard piloted the SU7 Ultra around the iconic German track, achieving a record-breaking lap time of 6:46.874 minutes. This performance surpasses existing lap times set by notable EVs like the Porsche Taycan, which holds a time of 7:07.55 minutes, and the Rimac Nevera at 7:05:298 minutes.

Key Details of the Record-Breaking Lap:

Lap Time: 6:46.874 minutes, outpacing many prominent electric vehicles.

Driver: David Pittard, who previously won the 2023 24-hour race at Nürburgring, was behind the wheel.

Speed Specs: The SU7 Ultra prototype accelerates from 0 to 100 kph in just 1.97 seconds and hits 200 kph in under 6 seconds, with a top speed exceeding 350 kph.

Xiaomi's journey to secure the Nordschleife record faced weather challenges. Initial attempts in January and October were postponed due to rain, but favorable weather conditions on October 24 allowed for the successful lap, achieving what Xiaomi set out to do nearly a year prior.

The SU7 Ultra’s success at Nürburgring has garnered international attention, with Ford CEO Jim Farley recently commending Xiaomi’s automotive advancements. As the Chinese tech giant expands its footprint in the luxury EV market, Xiaomi plans to launch three vehicle models in Western markets by 2026, with production already underway to meet increasing demand.

Xiaomi’s impressive Nürburgring record highlights its commitment to blending luxury with high-performance EV technology. With the SU7 Ultra leading the charge, Xiaomi is positioning itself as a strong contender in the high-performance EV market, setting new benchmarks for speed and acceleration. The record-breaking lap demonstrates not only the capabilities of the SU7 Ultra but also Xiaomi’s potential to become a major player in the automotive industry as it introduces more luxury models globally.

Aptera Hits Major Milestone with First Production-Intent Solar EV for Real-World Testing.

Aptera Motors has achieved a significant step forward in the development of its solar electric vehicle (sEV), completing the first function test of its inaugural production-intent vehicle. The company’s San Diego-based team designed this vehicle specifically to validate and test Aptera’s production components, critical performance metrics, and pioneering solar charging capabilities in real-world conditions.

Aptera’s first production-intent vehicle, which completed its initial drive, marks a foundational step in the validation and real-world testing of Aptera’s solar technology, efficiency, and extended range.

Featuring the Vitesco Technologies EMR3 drivetrain and Aptera’s proprietary battery, this model successfully combines Aptera’s unique Body in Carbon (BinC) structure with its in-board motor, functioning seamlessly in real-world conditions for the first time.

In this next phase, Aptera plans to integrate its solar technology, optimized thermal management system, and streamlined exterior components. High-speed track testing will further validate core performance metrics, including watt-hours per mile, solar charging rates, and battery range. Aptera aims to ensure every aspect of the vehicle’s functionality meets rigorous performance standards before final production, setting the stage for delivery to nearly 50,000 pre-order reservation holders.

Aptera’s first production-intent vehicle not only validates its sustainable design but also signifies a crucial step towards energy-independent travel powered entirely by the sun. As the vehicle undergoes further testing, Aptera remains focused on making solar-powered journeys a reality for the modern driver. Follow the Aptera journey by checking out their YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@ApteraMotors

QuickEV

• Polestar Now Offers Its North American Customers Access to Tesla Superchargers.

• Electric hydrofoil ferry uses 80% less energy, and it can fly!

• Hyundai teases first images of IONIQ 9 three-row electric SUV.

• 2024 Volvo EX30 Review: Living Up To The Hype.

• Tesla Model Y ‘Juniper’ spotted in China with several big changes.

• VW considers closing up to three factories in Germany.

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