Most people will agree that buying any new car can be a long and confusing process. But what if you're buying an electric vehicle (EV)? By being flexible and planning ahead, it can actually be relatively quick and easy.
Five ways to speed up the EV buying process
1. Cash, finance or lease?
Decide how you want to pay for your EV. If you're financing or leasing, use the numbers on the manufacturer's website to do some rough calculations ahead of visiting the dealership. Don't forget to subtract your average monthly maintenance and gas costs for your current gas-powered vehicle from the monthly EV cost (including tax) for a ballpark figure of what your new EV might cost overall. Depending on your current gas costs, you might find you can save quite a lot – or be able to afford a more expensive vehicle than you thought.
2. Find an experienced EV dealership
As mentioned on our Test Drive page, call around to find a dealership for your chosen manufacturer with an EV enthusiast on the sales team who can properly advise you – even if this means travelling further.
3. Be flexible on options / colour
EVs are in huge demand at the moment, so a very specific vehicle might take time to locate. If you're prepared to wait, that's fine. But if you need your EV right away, you might need to be flexible about the details.
4. Get your OK application ready to go
You may have seen EVs displaying a white OK decal. EVs displaying this decal can travel in the HOV lane with just one passenger unless otherwise indicated. So while you're waiting for the dealer to find your ideal EV, get your OK decal application ready so you can submit it the moment your new car arrives.
5. Get a home charger fitted
Yes, it sounds obvious, but if you're permitted to install a home charger, why not get it done before your vehicle arrives so that you can charge up right away? There are also rebates available for chargers. Find out more about the EV charger rebate program.
Find your next ride
Ready to start shopping? Learn about EV models available in B.C., current rebates and vehicle features.
Save up to $8,000 with EV rebates
B.C. residents, businesses, non-profit organizations and local government organizations who purchase or lease qualifying new vehicles are currently eligible for two rebates: one worth up to $3,000 from the Government of B.C. and another worth up to $5,000 from the federal government. These are applied directly to the pre-tax sticker price by the dealership.
Find out more about EV rebates and incentives in B.C.
In addition to these, you may be eligible for SCRAP-IT, a program offered in B.C. that offers incentives to use towards the cost of an EV and other low-carbon forms of transportation when you scrap your existing gas-powered vehicle. The incentives apply to purchases of both new and used EVs.
Visit SCRAP-IT for full program details.
Save up to $350 with home EV charger rebates
You can apply for a rebate of up to $350 towards the purchase and installation of a home EV charger. Apartment/condo and workplace charger incentives are also available.
Find out more about the EV charger rebate program.