Poilievre vows to abolish Liberal EV mandates if elected

Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre has pledged to scrap Canada’s federal electric vehicle (EV) sales mandates if elected, arguing that such policies restrict consumer choice and impose substantial costs on Canadians. He criticized the Liberal plan, which targets 100% zero-emission car sales by 2035 with quotas beginning in 2026, claiming it acts as a costly tax on gas-powered vehicles and threatens jobs in the traditional automotive sector. Poilievre emphasized that while he supports the right to choose EVs, mandates are an overreach and could lead to job losses, citing concerns from industry leaders. The Liberal Party defends the EV mandate as essential for climate goals and economic competitiveness, asserting it will help Canada secure high-paying jobs in the green economy. The NDP supports a rapid EV transition but stresses the need for affordability and protection of workers' rights, distinguishing their approach from both major parties. Poilievre also stated that existing agreements for EV and battery plant construction would be honored under his government.