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  • Buying guide
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    • Choosing an EV charger
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Buying guide

What you need to know about purchasing an electric vehicle

Once you've decided to go electric, the fun of finding your next vehicle can begin. As the market for electric vehicles has grown, so have the options, but we've made it easy to narrow these down to the EV models in Canada that are best for your lifestyle and budget.

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EV models available in B.C.

Compare the range, price, seating and rebate eligibility of electric vehicles available in B.C.

Know your options
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Tips for the EV buying process

Learn about dealerships, charger installation and how to ensure a smooth buying process.

Get the guide
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Test driving an EV

Learn primary ways of test driving an electric vehicle, and the top things to monitor.

Learn about it
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Buying a used EV

Understand the pros and cons of buying a used electric vehicle, and tips on where to shop.

Know your options
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Maintaining and insuring an EV

How to take care of your EV battery, and what maintenance costs to expect.

Learn about it

For car dealers

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EV info. for car dealers

Learn how sharing your expertise can help support customers and stay ahead of the EV curve.

Learn about it

Quick Links

  • Home EV charger options
  • BC Hydro EV mobile app
  • Fast charger help centre

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  • Visit BCHydro.com
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  • CleanBC
  • Better Homes

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Rebates for single-family homes

If installed at a single-family home, this charger may be eligible for a rebate of up to 50% of purchase and installation costs to a maximum of $350. 

This includes duplexes or townhouses with private garages or dedicated parking. 
Rebate amounts are subject to change. Visit the EV charger rebate program for information and eligibility criteria.

If installed at an apartment/condo or workplace, this networked charger may be eligible for a rebate. 

Rebates for apartments/condos

Up to 50% of purchase and installation costs to a maximum of $1,400 to $2,000 per charger.

Rebate amounts vary depending on factors such as whether or not the building is participating in other EV Ready rebates.

Rebates for workplaces

Up to 50% of purchase and installation costs to a maximum of $2,000 per charger.

Pre-approval from BC Hydro is required for apartment/condo and workplace customers. Program maximums apply.

Rebates for single-family homes

If installed at a single-family home, this charger may be eligible for a rebate of up to 50% of purchase and installation costs to a maximum of $350.

This includes duplexes or townhouses with private garages or dedicated parking. 

Rebate amounts are subject to change. Visit the EV charger rebate program for information and eligibility criteria.

Features

Load management: Allows multiple EV chargers to share the same electrical circuit, allowing the charging power to be distributed across each charger.

Networked: A networked charging station that is connected to a central system via internet communication such as open protocol (e.g. OCPP, OpenADR or other) or a proprietary system (must be connected to a network for minimum of two years).

Multiple ports: Allows multiple vehicles to charge at the same time.

CSA Certification: Tested and certified electric vehicle charging and components by CSA Group. 

cETL Certification: Compliant with North American safety standards and tested/certified by Intertek.

cUL Certification: Compliant with Canadian safety standards by UL Canada.

Breaker Current

Every circuit breaker has specified amperage (amount of current). The rating is the labelled on the breaker. Understanding your electrical service and panel is important in determining the type of EV charger you can support.