The Ministry of Environment, Fight Against Climate Change, Wildlife and Parks quietly announced last evening the suspension of financial assistance for electric vehicle purchases effective February 1st.

“Due to the significant demand managed by Roulez vert (Drive Green) in recent months, the program will be temporarily suspended starting February 1st,” states the Quebec government website.

The maximum manufacturer’s suggested retail price limit, which determines a vehicle’s eligibility for the Roulez vert program, remains at CAD $65,000.

Recall that Quebec had already announced a gradual reduction of this CAD $7,000 incentive with plans to phase it out completely by 2027. This announcement had sparked negative reactions throughout the automotive ecosystem.

According to the government website: “The financial assistance offered through the Roulez vert program was intended to provide the necessary momentum for the emerging electric vehicle market and support its transformation. As of September 30, 2024, more than 335,000 electric vehicles were operating on Quebec roads, representing 33% of all electric vehicles in circulation across Canada.”

In the third quarter of 2024, light-duty electric vehicles accounted for 32.8% of market share in Quebec, reportedly the highest ratio in North America and among the highest in Western nations and worldwide.

“This decision, which echoes the recent suspension of the ÉcoCamionnage (EcoTrucking) program, raises serious concerns about the predictability and stability of the electric vehicle (EV) market in Quebec,” comments the Quebec Automobile Dealers Corporation (CCAQ) in a press release.