Quebec plans to implement stricter vehicle registration regulations by 2035 to enhance environmental standards. The province will ban the sale of new combustion engine vehicles starting with the 2035 model year. To address registration loopholes, the government will amend the Highway Safety Code, preventing the registration of non-compliant vehicles. By 2035, advancements in technology are expected to make zero-emission vehicles the preferred choice, with key regulations prohibiting the marketing and sales of light combustion vehicles from 2034 onwards.
Quebec’s Ambitious Plan for Vehicle Registration Changes by 2035
In a move to enhance environmental standards and control vehicle registrations, Quebec is set to implement stricter regulations starting in 2035. This initiative aims to prevent the registration of vehicles that meet federal criteria but do not comply with the province’s standards.
On Monday, Quebec took a significant step by officially banning the sale of combustion engine vehicles from the 2035 model year onwards. This stringent regulation reflects the province’s commitment to promoting cleaner transportation options.
Addressing Registration Loopholes
Currently, drivers can purchase vehicles from neighboring provinces, such as Ontario, and register them in Quebec without restrictions. However, the government is determined to close this loophole to ensure compliance with its environmental goals. Marjorie Larouche, representing the Ministry of the Environment, stated that the Société de l’assurance automobile du Québec (SAAQ) will work on amending the Highway Safety Code to prevent the registration of vehicles that will be prohibited in the province.
While the issue may seem hypothetical at this stage, the ministry acknowledges that many plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs) are expected to exceed their current electric range capabilities soon. Daniel Breton from Electric Mobility Canada (MEC) highlights that Quebec’s more ambitious standards could provide manufacturers with dual advantages, including credits at both provincial and federal levels for selling fully electric vehicles.
As technology continues to advance, the debate over consumer preferences between fully electric vehicles and PHEVs may soon become irrelevant. Mr. Breton emphasizes that the rapid evolution of vehicle technology makes it difficult to predict consumer choices for 2035.
The MELCCFP believes that PHEVs serve as a transitional solution for new electric vehicle buyers. However, they assert that, in the long run, fully electric vehicles will become more competitively priced as battery costs decrease and production increases.
By 2035, the province anticipates that advancements in technology and the charging infrastructure will lead to zero-emission vehicles (ZEVs) becoming the preferred choice among consumers.
Key Regulations for Zero-Emission Vehicles
- As of January 1, 2034, the marketing of light combustion vehicles from the 2035 model year and beyond will be prohibited.
- By December 31, 2035, the sale and rental of new light combustion vehicles from the 2034 model year and earlier will cease.
- Light combustion vehicles from the 2034 model year and earlier that are already registered in Quebec can continue to operate and be resold.
- Exceptions apply for replacing defective engines, emergency vehicles, motorcycles, and off-road vehicles.
These measures underscore Quebec’s dedication to fostering a sustainable future and reducing greenhouse gas emissions through the promotion of zero-emission vehicles.