EV `road map' not much use for getting anywhere
CHRISTOPHER PIKE FOR THE TORONTO STAR
Aurora-based Magna International demonstrates an electrical system developed by the company in a prototype Ford Focus this summer in Ottawa.
They're all about options, choices and, ultimately, good intentions. You know where you want to go and you'll do your best to get there.
Which brings us to the Electric Vehicle Technology Roadmap for Canada, which was released this week – in summary form, at least – after much discussion, argument and compromise among government and industry officials.
This document does describe a destination: "By 2018, there will be at least 500,000 highway-capable plug-in electric-drive vehicles on Canadian roads, as well as what may be a larger number of hybrid-electric vehicles. All ... will have more Canadian content in parts and manufacture than vehicles on the road in Canada in 2008."
"The road map," it states, "is intended to provide the strategic direction to ensure the development and adoption of EVs in Canada, while building a robust industry."
The goal is admirable. So is the enthusiasm of the steering committee that wrote the report: "Canada is well positioned to capitalize on this form of clean transportation. Our industry is well placed to be a major supplier of EV components and vehicles, not only in Canada but also internationally."
But this is a map, not a plan. It says common-sense things about what's needed to produce workable, saleable battery-powered cars: The battery is key; it must be made more efficient, powerful, reliable and lighter. Its range between plug-ins must be increased and its cost reduced to half, or even one-third, of current levels. Batteries should be tested to ensure they work anywhere in Canada, and networks of charging stations ought to be established so electric cars can be conveniently plugged in.
In short, Canadian companies should develop and produce good electric vehicles.
How to get there is the actual issue, and where the "road map" falls short. While manufacturers in the United States, China and elsewhere work hard to develop what could be the motive power of the future – with massive government support – Canada is still imagining an ideal world and talking in the most general terms about how to make it real.
Sure, "governments, industry and other stakeholders" should "make timely and substantial investments in Canadian development and manufacture of EVs and in energy storage devices to build on Canada's already strong presence in these industries."
Of course, they ought to: "Consider (my emphasis) supplementing federal, provincial and territorial mechanisms to promote the development, public acceptance and procurement of personal and commercial EVs, and the installation of the charging infrastructure." Who wouldn't – once they figured out what this means?
A map shows all possible routes, but doesn't do the driving. That happens when someone decides where to go, gets behind the wheel and commits to the trip.
This "road map" affirms no commitment by anyone. In fact, one of its clearest declarations is this: "The contents, conclusions and recommendations are not necessarily endorsed by participating organizations and their employees nor by the Government of Canada."
The very stakeholders who laboured to produce this thing won't stand behind it, even though it's just an inarguable wish list.
A few Canadian companies are developing batteries and other components. Some get a bit of government support, but mostly they're making the effort and taking the risks. Good for them, and good luck, too, because from the looks of the "road map," they and any others who intend to enter the global EV competition are on their own.
If it represents the level of commitment here, then while 500,000 plug-in vehicles might be cruising Canadian roads in 2018, they'll come mainly from elsewhere.
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