Canadians Advocate for Allowing EVs That Were Not Initially Intended for Purchase | Carscoops

      Opening up regulations could reduce US tariffs and increase customer options

      July 19, 2025, at 19:12

      by Stephen Rivers

      Advocates for electric vehicles are urging Canada to permit the importation of European models that are not currently certified.

      To achieve this, modifications to safety regulations, which largely align with those of the US, would be necessary.

      By adjusting these standards, it may be possible to bypass US tariffs and broaden the selection of vehicles available to consumers.

      For Canadians facing a costly auto market, having more options might help alleviate some of the financial burden. The federal government has several priorities, one of which is ensuring a robust, competitive automotive market. The tariffs imposed during Donald Trump's administration have complicated this, but some dealers have a solution.

      They are proposing that government officials relax regulations to permit European market vehicles into Canada. A significant electric vehicle advocacy organization has joined this initiative.

      Read: 80% of Car Tariffs Could Be Passed Directly to You

      A thriving car market involves more than just keeping costs low; it also requires providing consumers with choices. Currently, Canada’s safety regulations are closely aligned with those in the United States.

      Modifying these regulations or at least broadening them to include vehicles available in Europe could circumvent American tariffs and make several popular European models available in Canada. However, Transport Canada, the national regulatory authority, has expressed some concerns.

      “At present, there is a blockage stating that for safety reasons, these cars cannot be permitted,” noted Daniel Breton, head of Electric Mobility Canada. “Transport Canada claims that we must alter the bumpers, the headlights, and other features for safety reasons, which I believe is completely unfounded,” he added.

      Breton's point is clear: “If the vehicle is deemed safe for European roads, where speeds are often higher than in Canada, it’s unreasonable to argue that they aren't safe for Canadian use.” This perspective resonates with some Canadian dealers, though there are those in government who continue to oppose it.

      Safety Standards, Road Conditions

      “The certification requirements from other regions may not adequately meet the safety needs of Canadian drivers due to our unique driving conditions,” said spokesman Hicham Ayoun in an email to CTVNews. “Some European crash testing standards are not as rigorous as the Canadian system, given the differences in driving environments.” It's worth noting that Canadian roads are quite similar to those in the USA.

      This means there are many vast, open stretches of road. However, there is no reason to assume that small cars imported from Europe or China would only be used on those road types. Breton views opening up regulations as a way for Canada to further its objectives of getting more individuals into affordable electric vehicles.

      Public Support Increases

      A survey of 2,585 Canadians revealed that 70 percent favored allowing European-certified EVs into Canada. The decision is now in the hands of the government, which must determine if this level of support is sufficient to proceed.