Statistics Canada today released updated car sales numbers, showing zero-emission vehicles (ZEVs) accounted for 10.2% of all new motor vehicles sold in February 2026.
While still shy of the historic highs seen throughout 2024, this marks a massive leap from the 6.9% market share ZEVs held just one year prior in February 2025. While the broader Canadian auto market experienced a slight cooling period, the EV sector is once again accelerating in growth and recovering lost ground.
The EV Surge: By the Numbers
Statistics Canada report shows the stark contrast between EV growth and the rest of the auto market.
- Total ZEV Sales: 12,626 units
- ZEV Year-over-Year Growth: +47.2%
- Total Auto Market Sales: 124,004 units
- Total Auto Market Growth: -0.9%
While traditional internal combustion engine (ICE) passenger cars saw sales slide by 3.8% and trucks dipped by 0.5%, zero-emission vehicles are aggressively eating up a larger piece of the pie. The fact that the overall market contracted by nearly 1% while ZEV sales jumped up by over 47% is a clear indicator that the Canadian consumer is showing openness to electric vehicles.
What’s behind the spike?
As of February 16, 2026, the Electric Vehicle Affordability Program (EVAP) was launched by the federal government. Under the new program, buyers can access:
- Up to $2,500 for Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicles (PHEVs)
- Up to $5,000 for Battery Electric Vehicles (BEVs)
Considering this program was only active for half the month, it shows a very positive reaction by Canadians eager to take advantage of it. There were also many incentives offered by dealerships that helped spur demand for EVs.
What’s this means for the rest of 2026?
It’s a mix of good news right now. Oil prices are at multi-year highs, which is driving people toward more efficient cars and electric vehicles. The federal government is offering an excellent $5,000 rebate on EVs. Tesla is now offering a $49,990 Model Y (also eligible for the additional $5,000 EVAP rebate), which is generating huge demand. Furthermore, other manufacturers are offering more affordable options and new car models.
Later this year, Chinese imports will also start showing up in Canada. After a slowdown in 2025, it looks like 2026 EV sales are set for a strong rebound.
The only current negative is the Canada/U.S. tariff situation, which is having an impact on cars like the Model 3. Currently, the Model Y shipped from Berlin is cheaper than a Model 3 coming from the U.S. This will likely change at some point this year as Tesla will likely start shipping Model 3s from China.
