After years of rapid growth, transport electrification now appears to be slowing. The downturn in electric vehicle (EV) sales and in the development of charging infrastructure raises a key question: are we witnessing a genuine shift or merely a passing trend?

Recent data point to a decline. This pullback feeds doubts about the long-term viability of the electrification model. Are electric vehicles truly the future solution, or are they mainly propelled by government incentives that are starting to wane?

Public policies in transition

Across Canada and in Quebec, purchase incentives for EVs will be gradually scaled back. This strategic pivot is drawing criticism within the industry, which sees it as lacking coherence. Paradoxically, some training programs—particularly those for vocational training centres such as the CPA—are being maintained or even strengthened. A tension emerges between encouraging technicians to train and reducing incentives to buy: is this a two-speed strategy?

To accommodate this new technology, workshops must invest in equipment and, above all, in staff training. But with sales slowing, many hesitate to commit. Is this the right moment for such heavy investment? If demand fails to materialize, it could prove costly.

A labour shortage that complicates everything

The sector is also grappling with a serious skilled-labour crisis. There is a severe shortage of technicians qualified to maintain and repair EVs, and most current mechanics are reluctant to return to the classroom to learn this new specialty. “I have never experienced such an intense shortage of qualified labour in my entire career,” says Dominic Landry.

As a result, employers are struggling to keep up with the pace of the transition.

Given economic uncertainty, many consumers prefer to keep their existing vehicles longer. That boosts demand for maintenance on conventional cars—a boon for traditional workshops, but another challenge when staffing is already tight.

Electricity: another barrier

At the same time, other factors are raising doubts. Electricity prices are up, and outages occur frequently—especially in winter. This worries consumers, who fear being stranded with a car they cannot recharge. Consequently, many opt for hybrid models, which are seen as more reliable in case of a breakdown.

Electric vehicles remain a cornerstone of ambitions for a greener future. Yet between economic uncertainty, shifting policies, labour shortages and consumer concerns, the road to electrification is strewn with obstacles. Is this a solid, sustainable transition or a trend that will need reevaluation? The coming years will be decisive.