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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:

• Toronto Transit Commission Expands Fleet with Two New Electric Buses.

• Electrify Canada Expands Charging Network: Enhanced Services in Québec and Nova Scotia.

• China Initiates Anti-Discrimination Probe Against Canada’s Electric Vehicle Tariffs.

• Ford Announces “Ford Power Promise”: Making Electric Vehicle Ownership Easy.

• Electrify Your Drive with the 2025 Toyota Prius Prime Plug-in Hybrid.

• Rivian Software Update: Enhanced Security and Comfort Features for R1S and R1T.

• + more!

Canada

Toronto Transit Commission Expands Fleet with Two New Electric Buses.

Toronto, Canada’s largest city, has taken a significant step toward sustainable transit by welcoming the first two of a planned 340 electric buses. Operated by the Toronto Transit Commission (TTC), these new additions are part of a major initiative to electrify the city’s public transportation system. The remaining electric buses are scheduled for delivery through the end of 2026.

This fleet expansion is backed by a substantial investment of $700 million CAD from both the federal government and the City of Toronto. The Government of Canada is contributing $349 million via the Zero Emission Transit Fund, while the City of Toronto is investing $351 million into this vital project.

New Flyer delivered the first 2 buses, but it has been noted that New Flyer Industries Canada and Nova Bus are responsible for producing the entire order of 340 new battery-electric buses.

Upon the completion of this delivery within the next 15 months, the TTC will have a total of 400 electric buses, which will represent approximately 20 percent of its fleet. This achievement positions Toronto as home to the largest electric bus fleet in North America. The TTC has set an ambitious goal of transitioning to a fully emission-free fleet by 2040.

By investing in electric buses, the Toronto Transit Commission is not only improving public transit but also contributing to a greener, more sustainable future for urban transportation.

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Electrify Canada Expands Charging Network: Enhanced Services in Québec and Nova Scotia.

Electrify Canada has announced the expansion of its EV charging network, introducing its first stations in Nova Scotia and further developing its presence in Québec. This expansion includes seven new stations equipped with over 40 EV chargers capable of delivering speeds up to 350 kW, strategically located along popular travel routes and near shopping and dining.

The five new stations in Québec—located in Greenfield Park, Mont-Tremblant, Laval, Québec City, and St-Hyacinthe—join existing sites in Drummondville, Mirabel, Repentigny, Sherbrooke, St-Romuald, and Trois-Rivières. As EV adoption rises, Electrify Canada plans to increase the number of larger stations, with Greenfield Park and Laval featuring eight charging stations each.

With the addition of Nova Scotia, Electrify Canada now operates in seven provinces. The new Amherst and Bedford stations, located near the New Brunswick border and close to Halifax, facilitate seamless travel across provinces.

The expansion is partially funded by Natural Resources Canada (NRCAN) through the Zero-Emission Vehicle Infrastructure Program (ZEVIP).

New Electrify Canada Locations in Québec:

• Greenfield Park: Canadian Tire, 4909 Taschereau Blvd – Coming soon

• Mont-Tremblant: Canadian Tire, 228 Route 117 – Now open

• Laval: Canadian Tire, 1450 Blvd Le Corbusier – Now open

• Québec City: Canadian Tire, 4500 Rue Armand-Viau – Coming soon

• St-Hyacinthe: Canadian Tire, 5930 Rue Martineau – Coming soon

New Electrify Canada Locations in Nova Scotia:

• Amherst: Canadian Tire, 152 Albion Street South – Now open

• Bedford: Canadian Tire, 150 Damascus Road – Coming soon

This latest expansion follows recent openings in Alberta, British Columbia, New Brunswick, and Saskatchewan, marking a significant step toward creating a comprehensive DC fast-charging network for Canadian EV drivers.

For drivers with compatible vehicles, the Electrify Canada network features Plug&Charge capabilities for a seamless charging experience. Users can verify their vehicle's compatibility and manage charging sessions through the Electrify Canada mobile app, enabling contactless payments and session tracking.

China Initiates Anti-Discrimination Probe Against Canada’s Electric Vehicle Tariffs.

On September 26, 2024, China officially launched an investigation into Canada’s tariffs on imported electric vehicles, steel, and aluminum products. The Chinese Commerce Ministry announced that this anti-discriminatory probe could last up to three months but may be extended if special circumstances arise. This move marks a significant escalation in the ongoing trade tensions between the two nations.

In its announcement, China criticized Canada’s tariffs, labeling them as “discriminatory unilateral restrictive measures.” The Chinese government has requested discussions with Canada at the World Trade Organization (WTO) to address these tariffs, highlighting its commitment to seeking resolution through international trade forums. Earlier this month, China also initiated a separate investigation into Canada’s canola imports, further indicating its scrutiny of Canadian trade practices.

The backdrop to this investigation stems from Canada’s decision in August to impose heavy tariffs on several Chinese products. This includes a proposed 100% tariff on EVs imported from China, aimed at protecting domestic industries as Canada pushes for greater investment in its electric vehicle market. Additionally, the tariffs extend to Chinese steel and aluminum exports, intensifying the trade standoff between the two countries.

Canada's Finance Minister has noted that these geopolitical and geoeconomic dynamics underscore the importance of Canada in ensuring secure supply chains, particularly for the United States. As Canada aligns itself more closely with U.S. interests, the implications of these tariffs may reverberate across North America, potentially impacting economic relationships.

As this situation continues to develop, the potential consequences for international trade and the electric vehicle markets could be substantial. Both Canadian and Chinese manufacturers may face increased uncertainty, affecting production, pricing strategies, and future investments. Industry analysts will be closely monitoring the outcomes of the probe, as well as any retaliatory measures from China, which could further complicate trade relations between these two significant players in the global market.

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Ford Announces “Ford Power Promise”: Making Electric Vehicle Ownership Easy.

Ford is introducing the “Ford Power Promise” initiative designed to alleviate common concerns among potential EV buyers, this program focuses on enhancing convenience, providing peace of mind, and offering expert support.

What exactly is the Ford Power Promise?

Starting October 1, 2024, customers who purchase or lease a Ford Mustang Mach-E, F-150 Lightning, or E-Transit will receive the following benefits:

• Complimentary Home Charger: Each buyer gets a free home EV charger and standard installation at no additional cost, simplifying the home charging process. This incentive aims to address the prevalent concern that many consumers are unaware of how home charging works.

• Expanded Charging Network Access: Owners will have access to the BlueOval Charge Network, which includes over 75,000 charging stations across North America. This network integrates with Tesla Superchargers, allowing for seamless charging on the go.

• Battery Warranty: Ford offers an eight-year or 100,000-mile warranty on high-voltage batteries, ensuring drivers can feel confident in their vehicle's battery health.

• 24/7 Customer Support: With round-the-clock support available through phone or text, Ford is committed to providing immediate assistance for any inquiries or concerns.

As electric vehicles gain popularity, Ford recognizes that consumers are not just concerned about range anxiety but also about understanding and embracing new technology. Surveys show that 89% of shoppers would be more inclined to purchase an EV if they had access to home charging. By introducing the Ford Power Promise, Ford aims to bridge the gap between consumer perceptions and the actual benefits of electric vehicle ownership.

Electrify Your Drive with the 2025 Toyota Prius Prime Plug-in Hybrid.

Toyota has rebranded the Prius Prime to the Prius Plug-in Hybrid for the 2025 model year. With an impressive 70 km (44 miles) of all-electric range and a remarkable 4.2 combined L/100km (52 MPG) in hybrid mode, the Prius Plug-in Hybrid offers a blend of efficiency and performance. Additionally, this name change will be brought to the Toyota RAV4 Prime, which will now be known as the RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid.

Key Features of the 2025 Prius Plug-in Hybrid

• Powerful Performance: Equipped with a 220 hp hybrid system, it achieves 0-60 mph in just 6.6 seconds.

• Convenient Charging: Recharge at home using a standard outlet or Level 2 charger, with an estimated full charge time of 4 hours.

• Advanced Technology: The Prius Plug-in Hybrid features a standard 8-inch multimedia screen with available 12.3-inch touchscreen and a JBL® Premium Audio system in higher trims.

The Prius Plug-in Hybrid seamlessly transitions between EV, Auto EV/HV, and Hybrid Modes, optimizing efficiency based on battery charge. Its intelligent systems also help improve fuel economy by analyzing driving patterns and suggesting optimal acceleration and deceleration points.

Standard Toyota Safety Sense 3.0 includes features like Pre-Collision System, Lane Departure Alert, and Dynamic Radar Cruise Control, ensuring peace of mind on every drive.

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Rivian Software Update: Enhanced Security and Comfort Features for R1S and R1T.

Rivian has rolled out a significant software update designed to enahnce security and comfort in its R1S and R1T models. This update introduces a range of features that elevate the driving experience and enhance peace of mind for Rivian owners.

Here are the updates as described in the official release from Rivian:

Gear Guard Live Cam

Rivian's Gear Guard security system is designed to provide drivers with peace of mind whether they're parked at home or on an adventure. This system includes high-resolution cameras strategically placed around the vehicle, allowing you to monitor your surroundings remotely via the Rivian mobile app. The Live Cam feature is particularly useful when an alarm is triggered; users can review camera feeds to see what’s happening in and around their vehicle. This feature is available for both first- and second-generation vehicles and requires a Connect+ subscription for connectivity.

Adaptive Driving Beam Technology

The new Dynamic Headlamp Leveling feature, available for second-generation R1S and R1T vehicles, enhances nighttime visibility by ensuring stable light diffusion from the headlights. This technology allows drivers to see clearly in dark conditions, even on uneven terrain. Rivian's commitment to innovation is evident in its adoption of Adaptive High Beams, which automatically adjust based on surrounding traffic, diverting light away from oncoming vehicles while maintaining road illumination.

Tri-Zone Climate Control

To further improve passenger comfort, Rivian has introduced Tri-Zone HVAC, allowing individual climate settings for the driver, front passenger, and rear passengers. This means that everyone in the vehicle can enjoy their preferred temperature settings, significantly enhancing the overall comfort level during long journeys. Passengers in the second and third rows can easily adjust their climate controls through a rear display.

New Drive Mode Animations

The software update also includes new animations that provide visual feedback when changing settings in Drive Modes. When you adjust Ride Height, Brake Regen, Stability, or Ride Feel, animations illustrate how these changes affect vehicle performance. This feature helps drivers make informed decisions tailored to specific driving conditions, whether they are off-roading or navigating city traffic.

Rivian continues to emphasize that these software enhancements are largely informed by direct feedback from its community of owners. Rivian has always shown dedication to continuously improving its software and features based on community feedback. Thus, ensuring that user experience is at the forefront of its development process.

Check out their official release for more information: Rivian.com

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