Pain at the Pump: Why Canadians Are Finally Looking at EVs

My alarm was set for 4 a.m. on Friday, June 12th. I woke up at 2:30, completely wide awake, and made a decision: pack the car and go. By 3 a.m. I was out of Winnipeg with my Chevy Equinox EV at 90% charge and 5,912 km on the odometer, heading west to Saskatoon for my cousin's wedding.In this episode of True North EV, I walk through the entire trip — stop by stop, dollar by dollar. Eight charging sessions across Manitoba and Saskatchewan. Just over $180 total in charging costs, versus what would have been over $200 in fuel for a comparable gas vehicle. And I was charging exclusively at public fast chargers the whole way — the most expensive way to do it.Along the way I talk about: what battery preconditioning is and why skipping it costs you speed, a navigation mix-up in Yorkton that sent me to the wrong charger on the wrong side of the city, a great conversation with a Cadillac Lyriq driver who thought she couldn't use Tesla Superchargers (and why Davidson, SK is the one exception you should know about), an unplanned Tim Hortons stop in Neepawa at 4:24 in the morning, a last-minute camp chair purchase at Canadian Tire while the car charged, a 2 a.m. parking lot nap on the way home, and how accurate the Equinox's range predictions really are over a 1600ish km prairie drive.I also share a few things I learned about the MyChevrolet app — what it does well, where it has quirks, and the one zoom trick on the in-car map I wish I'd known sooner.Whether you're already driving electric or just starting to wonder if an EV could handle your lifestyle — this episode is a real-world look at what long-distance EV travel in Canada actually feels like in 2026.True North EV is hosted by James, out of Winnipeg, Manitoba. New episodes cover EV ownership, charging, and life on Canadian roads.Find us at truenorthev.ca | Facebook: @truenorthev | Email: [email protected] in making the switch to electric? True North EV Consulting helps you find the right vehicle and walks you through the whole process — from deciding to driving to getting a charger installed at home.

Are Canadian dealerships and rental companies quietly killing EV adoption? In this episode, James breaks down the real barriers holding Canadians back from going electric — and they're not what you'd expect. From undertrained salespeople steering buyers away from EVs, to rental companies handing over unfamiliar electric cars with zero orientation and surprise recharging fees, the experience of trying to go electric in Canada is often frustrating before it even begins. We cover four dealership pitfalls and three rental red flags, plus practical tips to protect yourself and make a confident switch to electric. If you've ever felt talked out of an EV, this one's for you.🔗 Visit us at truenorthev.ca | 📧 [email protected] | 📘 @truenorthev🌿 Manitoba Electric Vehicle Association: manitobaev.ca🎙️ Also check out the Kilowatt podcast with Bodie!

Gas hit $1.82/L nationally in April 2026 — and Canadians are responding in a big way. EV searches jumped 94% in three months. Used EV prices are down 11–33%. A new federal rebate program just launched. In this episode, James covers the full picture: what's driving the surge, which new vehicles qualify for rebates, why the used EV market is the story of 2026, what barriers still exist, and how to figure out if an EV or PHEV is the right move for your life.________________________________________• Manitoba Electric Vehicle Association: manitobaev.ca• True North EV website & consulting: truenorthev.ca• Email: [email protected]• Facebook: @truenorthev• Transport Canada EVAP vehicle list: tc.canada.ca (search "EVAP eligible vehicles")• Quebec Roulez Vert program: vehiculeselectriques.gouv.qc.ca• Plug 'N' Drive (test drives): plugndrive.ca• Clutch.ca (used EVs): clutch.ca• Check out: Kilowatt Podcast with Bodie

James shares a full three-week real-world report on the2026 Chevrolet Equinox EV LT in Winnipeg. Covering first impressions, city and highway driving, the federal EVAP rebate, the Costco GM rebate, and the big news that Manitoba's provincial EV Rebate Program has been extended in Budget 2026. Plus a summer EV camping trip is in the works.Show notes links: truenorthev.ca | manitobaev.ca |[email protected] | Facebook: @truenorthev | Manitoba EV Rebate: gov.mb.ca/lowercosts/evrebate | Eligible vehicles list: manitoba.ca/lowercosts/evrebate/eligible-vehicles.html | MPI application: evrebate.mpi.mb.ca | Costco GM rebate: costcoauto.ca | Kilowatt Podcast: https://pca.st/podcast/09216500-6e77-0134-787d-4ffec63d9550

Saskatchewan Electric Vehicle Association- sevaonline.caevfiresafe.comGreenway Motors- https://greenwaymotors.ca/Greenway Electric Youtube- @GreenwayElectricManitoba EV rebate Frequently Asked Questions and link to the ev rebate form: https://www.gov.mb.ca/lowercosts/evrebate/index.htmlCheck out how green your grid is or  if you are in Alberta howgreen it is at this very moment at thegrid.albertaev.ca.  This is a great tool that Electric Vehicle Association of Alberta has put together. It will definitely help also when comparing evs to gas vehicles.Check Easy EV Install out if you are in Manitoba and looking at getting an EV. You can find and contact Marc on Linkedin and Facebook at Easy EV Install and on Instagram and Twitter at @EasyEVInstall. you can also call or text him at 431-999-EASY(3279) or email at [email protected] you are in the Winnipeg or surrounding area and would like an independent shop to look at your electric vehicle, check out Erickson Motors: https://www.ericksonmotors.ca/ Here is the link to kilowatt podcast:https://pca.st/podcast/09216500-6e77-0134-787d-4ffec63d9550Check out Manitoba Electric Vehicle Association at  Manitobaev.caEmail: [email protected]

Saskatchewan Electric Vehicle Association- sevaonline.caevfiresafe.comGreenway Motors- https://greenwaymotors.ca/Greenway Electric Youtube- @GreenwayElectricManitoba EV rebate Frequently Asked Questions and link to the ev rebate form: https://www.gov.mb.ca/lowercosts/evrebate/index.htmlCheck out how green your grid is or  if you are in Alberta howgreen it is at this very moment at thegrid.albertaev.ca.  This is a great tool that Electric Vehicle Association of Alberta has put together. It will definitely help also when comparing evs to gas vehicles.Check Easy EV Install out if you are in Manitoba and looking at getting an EV. You can find and contact Marc on Linkedin and Facebook at Easy EV Install and on Instagram and Twitter at @EasyEVInstall. you can also call or text him at 431-999-EASY(3279) or email at [email protected] you are in the Winnipeg or surrounding area and would like an independent shop to look at your electric vehicle, check out Erickson Motors: https://www.ericksonmotors.ca/ Here is the link to kilowatt podcast:https://pca.st/podcast/09216500-6e77-0134-787d-4ffec63d9550Check out Manitoba Electric Vehicle Association at  Manitobaev.caEmail: [email protected]

Canada's New EV Rebate Program: Everything You Need to KnowThis week on True North EV, host James dives deep into Canada's brand new Electric Vehicle Affordability Program (EVAP) - the biggest change to EV incentives in years.Starting February 16, 2026, Canadians can access:Up to $5,000 in rebates for battery-electric and fuel cell vehiclesUp to $2,500 for plug-in hybrid vehiclesPoint-of-sale incentives (applied immediately at the dealership)No price cap for Canadian-made EVs$50,000 transaction price limit for imported EVs from free-trade countriesIn This Episode:✅ The EVAP Program Explained - Who qualifies, how the pricing works, and which 35 vehicles are currently eligible✅ Infrastructure Investment - Breaking down the $84 million investment that will bring 8,000 new charging ports across Canada✅ The Chinese EV Question - A balanced look at why Chinese EVs are excluded and why that might actually be okay✅ Manitoba's Next Move - James's proposal for the province to pivot its rebate program to focus on used EVs without age restrictions✅ Host's Perspective - After a week of TV, radio, and newspaper interviews, James shares his honest take on why this is a great program (and where it could be improved)Key Takeaways:The $50,000 price cap is realistic for today's marketExcluding freight, PDI, taxes, and warranties from the price calculation gives manufacturers flexibilityPairing purchase incentives with charging infrastructure addresses both major barriers to EV adoptionThis could spark creative pricing and packaging from manufacturers competing to hit the $50K thresholdWhether you're considering your first EV, already driving electric, or just curious about Canada's automotive future, this episode breaks down everything you need to know about the EVAP program and what it means for drivers across the country.Connect with True North EV:Manitoba Electric Vehicle Association: Manitobaev.caEmail: [email protected]

While we're waiting for construction season to start inthese freezing Canadian temperatures, a massive revolution is happening in the construction industry – and it could change everything about EV adoption in Canada.In this episode, we dive deep into the electrification ofheavy construction equipment, from compact excavators to 250-tonne cranes, and explore what this means for Canadian construction and EV consumers alike.You might be wondering, "What do bulldozers have to dowith my electric car?" Here's the exciting part: the construction industry is tackling the exact same challenges that hold back consumer EV adoption – high prices and limited range. And they're solving these problems faster thanmany expected.With Canada's construction equipment market approaching $4 billion and electric equipment growing at over 13% annually, this isn't just a future possibility – it's happening right now on job sites across the country.If you've ever wondered whether electric technology is toughenough for "real work," wait until you hear about electric excavators running all day on a single charge or battery-powered cranes lifting 250 tonnes. This episode will change how you think about electrification.Join me as we explore how electric construction equipment ispaving the way – literally – for broader EV adoption across Canada.BIBLIOGRAPHYPrimary Sources:Heavy Equipment Guide. (2025, December 10). "Battery-powered heavy equipment gains ground in construction." Retrieved from https://www.heavyequipmentguide.ca/article/40462/battery-powered-heavy-equipment-gains-ground-in-constructionASC Technical Institute. (2025, November 11). "Going Green: How Electric and Hybrid Heavy Equipment Are Transforming the Construction Industry." Retrieved from https://asctechnicalinstitute.com/2025/11/11/going-green-how-electric-and-hybrid-heavy-equipment-are-transforming-the-construction-industry/Black Ink Tech. "The Pros and Cons for Switching to Electric Construction Equipment." Retrieved from https://blackinktech.com/blog/post/the-pros-and-cons-for-switching-to-electric-construction-equipmentCONEXPO-CON/AGG. "5 Things to Consider If You're on the Fence About Electric Construction Equipment." Retrieved from https://www.conexpoconagg.com/news/5-things-to-consider-if-youre-on-the-fence-about-eSupplyPost. (2025). "Diesel vs. Electric Heavy Equipment in Canada." Retrieved from https://www.supplypost.com/news/2025/7/diesel-vs-electric-heavy-equipment-in-canadaVoltEquip. "The Pros and Cons of Using Electric Construction Equipment." Retrieved from https://voltequip.com/news/the-pros-and-cons-of-using-electric-construction-equipment/DOZR. "Electric vs. Non-Electric Excavators." Retrieved from https://dozr.com/blog/electric-vs-non-electric-excavatorsAilisheng Global. "What Electric Construction Equipment Are Used in Construction Projects?" Retrieved from https://www.ailishengglobal.com/blog/what-electric-construction-equipment-are-used-in-construction-project.htmlConserv Machinery. "Electric vs. Diesel Powered Machinery: Pros and Cons." Retrieved from https://www.conservmachinery.com/blog/electric-vs-diesel-powered-machinery-pros-and-consEarth Gear. "Pros and Cons of Electric Earthmoving Machinery: A Shift to Low-Emission Solutions." Retrieved from https://earthgear.com.au/pros-and-cons-of-electric-earthmoving-machinery-a-shift-to-low-emission-solutions/Volvo Construction Equipment. "Electric Machines." Retrieved from https://www.volvoce.com/united-states/en-us/products/electric-machines/DOZR. "Electric Construction Equipment." Retrieved from https://dozr.com/blog/electric-construction-equipmentAnsys. "What Are Electric Machines?" Retrieved from https://www.ansys.com/simulation-topics/what-are-electric-machines

Saskatchewan Electric Vehicle Association- sevaonline.caevfiresafe.comGreenway Motors- https://greenwaymotors.ca/Greenway Electric Youtube- @GreenwayElectricManitoba EV rebate Frequently Asked Questions and link to the ev rebate form: https://www.gov.mb.ca/lowercosts/evrebate/index.htmlCheck out how green your grid is or  if you are in Alberta howgreen it is at this very moment at thegrid.albertaev.ca.  This is a great tool that Electric Vehicle Association of Alberta has put together. It will definitely help also when comparing evs to gas vehicles.If you would like more info or to contact Tyler at Envirodel feel free to check out his website at envirodel.com or email him at [email protected], on LinkedIn at Envirodel Zero Emissions Courier and also on Instagram @Envirodelwpg or call @204-806-9918Check Easy EV Install out if you are in Manitoba and looking at getting an EV. You can find and contact Marc on Linkedin and Facebook at Easy EV Install and on Instagram and Twitter at @EasyEVInstall. you can also call or text him at 431-999-EASY(3279) or email at [email protected] you are in the Winnipeg or surrounding area and would like an independent shop to look at your electric vehicle, check out Erickson Motors: https://www.ericksonmotors.ca/ Here is the link to kilowatt podcast:https://pca.st/podcast/09216500-6e77-0134-787d-4ffec63d9550Check out Manitoba Electric Vehicle Association at  Manitobaev.caEmail: [email protected]

Are electric vehicles really cleaner than gas-powered cars?In this episode of the True North EV Podcast, host James tackles one of the most debated questions in the EV world: the environmental impact of fossil fuel production versus battery manufacturing. We break down the facts for Canadian drivers—exploring short-term and long-term impacts, mining and manufacturing realities, and how Canada’s clean electricity grid changes the equation.What you’ll learn:The continuous emissions from fossil fuel extraction, refining, and burning [Fossil Fue...ion part 1 | Word]The one-time environmental cost of battery production—and how quickly EVs “break even” on emissionsLatest research showing EVs in Canada produce up to 75% fewer lifetime emissions than gas vehicles The challenges of lithium and cobalt mining, and how innovation is making batteries cleaner and more ethical Why the grid is getting greener every year, making EVs an even better choice over time Honest discussion of the real challenges—mining impacts, recycling, grid readiness, and subsidiesWhether you’re EV-curious or already driving electric, this episode gives you the facts, the context, and practical takeaways to make an informed decision. Tune in to discover why, despite their imperfections, EVs are a cleaner, smarter choice for Canada’s future.Primary Sources Used:TD Economics (March 2025) – “Cradle to grave: Lifecycle emissions of electric versus gasoline vehicles in Canada”Canada Energy Regulator (2023) – “Canada’s Energy Future 2023”Natural Resources Canada (2024) – “Strategic Approach to Battery Innovation”Electric Mobility Canada (April 2025) – “Electrifying Progress: A Complete Economic Outlook of the Canadian EV Industry”Canadian Climate Institute (November 2025)CAA North & East Ontario (2025)Young Canadians for Resources (June 2025)Alberta Electric Vehicle Association, City of Edmonton, Municipal Climate Change Action Centre, AMA (Alberta Motor Association)CBC News (2023, 2025)Fraser Institute (2023–2025)Communications Earth & Environment (June 2025)PMC/National Institutes of HealthKey Statistics Referenced:Gas vehicle lifetime emissions: 89.5 tonnes CO₂Battery EV (no battery replacement): 21.6 tonnes CO₂Battery EV (one battery replacement): 28.4 tonnes CO₂Break-even point: Year 2 nationally; 6–18 months in some provincesCanada’s clean electricity: 82% non-emitting sources (2024)Alberta-specific: EVs reduce emissions by 41% currently; projected 74% as grid greensHealth costs: Vehicle emissions cost $9.5B annually in CanadaEconomic projections: 1.34 million EV jobs and $171B GDP contribution by 2040Battery recycling: Up to 95% of materials recoverableEV adoption Canada: 17% of new vehicles in 2024 were EVsGlobal emissions: EVs consistently show 32–47% lower footprint than hybridsCheck out how green your grid is or  if you are in Alberta howgreen it is at this very moment at thegrid.albertaev.ca.  This is a great tool that Electric Vehicle Association of Alberta has put together. It will definitely help also when comparing evs to gas vehicles.Check Easy EV Install out if you are in Manitoba and looking at getting an EV. You can find and contact Marc on Linkedin and Facebook at Easy EV Install and on Instagram and Twitter at @EasyEVInstall. you can also call or text him at 431-999-EASY(3279) or email at [email protected] is the link to kilowatt podcast:https://pca.st/podcast/09216500-6e77-0134-787d-4ffec63d9550Check out Manitoba Electric Vehicle Association at  Manitobaev.caFacebook link is: @truenorthevEmail: [email protected]