OTTAWA — Sales of zero-emission vehicles (ZEVs) in Canada climbed by nearly 20% in May, reflecting growing consumer demand for electric transportation amid rising fuel prices and renewed government incentives.
According to Statistics Canada, more than 18,000 zero-emission vehicles were sold nationwide during the month. The increase continues an upward trend that began after the federal government reintroduced consumer rebates for eligible electric vehicles in February.
Higher gasoline prices have also encouraged more Canadians to switch to electric mobility. Fuel costs surged following the outbreak of conflict in the Middle East earlier this year, making electric vehicles a more attractive option for cost-conscious consumers.
Despite the strong performance of zero-emission vehicles, overall new vehicle sales declined slightly. Statistics Canada reported that 190,564 new motor vehicles were sold in May, representing a 1.9% decrease compared with the same month last year.
The decline was driven largely by weaker demand for new trucks, with sales falling 2.2% year over year. Meanwhile, passenger car sales remained relatively stable, recording a modest 0.1% increase.
The latest figures suggest that while Canada’s broader auto market remains under pressure, demand for electric vehicles continues to strengthen as consumers respond to government incentives, higher fuel prices and the country’s transition toward cleaner transportation.
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