Extend electric car rebates to businesses and non-profit organizations BC

The British Columbia government has expanded its electric vehicle rebate program to include businesses and non-profit organizations by adding $2 million in additional funding to the province’s CleanBC Special Purpose Vehicle Incentive (SUVI) program.

“Through CleanBC, we’re making cleaner options more affordable and increasing the use of electric vehicles in how we get around,” said Bruce Ralston, Minister of Energy, Mines and Petroleum Resources. “These rebates will support B.C. businesses, including those in the tourism sector, in purchasing an electric bus, service vehicle or utility truck, helping them to reduce air pollution, save on fuels and grow their business.”

Eligible specialty-use vehicles include electric passenger buses, airport and port service vehicles, motorcycles, low-speed utility trucks, and heavy-duty transport trucks. Rebates range from $1,700 to $50,000 per vehicle and are available for businesses, local and regional governments, and non-profit organizations that are purchasing five or fewer vehicles.

“Our government is helping businesses switch to cleaner vehicles with rebates that make them more affordable so they can reduce emissions and save on fuel and maintenance costs,” said George Heyman, Minister of Environment and Climate Change Strategy. “Our CleanBC plan is helping businesses make the transition to a cleaner, better future where vehicles emit no pollution and where the use of innovative B.C. technology creates good jobs for people.”

As part of the announcement by the B.C. government, Harbour Air Seaplanes announced that it has bought a fully electric, zero-emission passenger shuttle bus from B.C-based GreenPower Motor Company. Harbour Air plans to use the shuttle bus to pick up and drop off passengers between Harbour Air’s downtown Vancouver and Richmond locations and the Vancouver International Airport.

Harbour Air recently tested a fully electric seaplane and announced a successful flight of an all-electric commercial aircraft in December of 2019.

“We are standing on the edge of a new era in aviation and sustainable travel,” said Greg McDougall, founder and CEO of Harbour Air. “Canada has had a longstanding history in aviation leadership and British Columbia in particular has led the way in its environmental sustainability. We are proud to continue that forward-thinking legacy. This commitment by our government to support local businesses and innovation exemplifies the leadership and dedication required to make meaningful impact.”

"We are pleased with today’s announcement in British Columbia. GreenPower Motor Company CEO and Chairman Fraser Atkinson said that this will help companies deploy all-electric zero-emission vehicles, adapt to the challenges posed by COVID-19, and re-stimulate the province’s green technology industry.