Canadian Legislative Updates
Government of Canada Unveils Final GHG Emission Regulations
Federal Minister of the Environment, the Honourable Jim Prentice, has announced final greenhouse gas (GHG) emission regulations for new light-duty vehicles. The regulations, which align with similar regulations in the United States, will create tougher GHG standards for new passenger automobiles and light trucks for the 2011-2016 model years.
Announced on October 1, Minister Prentice highlighted that Canada has worked closely with the U.S. government to set up common North American standards for GHG regulations. The Passenger Automobile and Light Truck Greenhouse Gas Emission Regulations require noteworthy technological improvements to vehicles to reduce GHG emissions.
Through these regulations, it is anticipated that the average GHG emission performance of new vehicles for the 2016 model year will be about 25 percent less than the vehicles sold in Canada in 2008.
Also released was a Notice of Intent, highlighting the Government of Canada’s commitment to continue working with the United States toward the development of stricter standards for light vehicles for the 2017 and later model years.
City of Toronto Working to Advance Zero-Tailpipe-Emissions Mobility
Teaming up with Renault-Nissan Alliance, Toronto Mayor David Miller announced that they have entered into an agreement to advance zero-tailpipe-emissions mobility in the City. Announced on September 27, the Mayor highlighted that the agreement will also help to promote the widespread adoption of electric vehicles.
The Mayor further explained that environmental sustainability remains a core priority for the City of Toronto. The new agreement will assist in providing residents with key information and options for less polluting modes of transportation. Electric vehicles will help the City achieve its climate protection and clean air goals.
Included in the agreement is the partnership between the City and Nissan to promote the use of electric vehicles on Toronto’s streets. Toronto and other key stakeholders will continue to develop plans to promote infrastructure for charging electric vehicles, and Nissan will be supplying electric vehicles for purchase in Toronto before the end of next year.
Nissan will also look forward to bringing the Nissan Leaf, its first 100 percent electric zero-emissions vehicle, to Toronto consumers.