The Government of Canada is stepping back from its near-term battery-electric vehicle (EV) sales mandate, announcing Friday it will scrap the progressive 2026 target under the Electric Vehicle Availability Standard (EVAS) and launch a full review of the regulation.

The EVAS, introduced to accelerate Canada’s shift to zero-emission vehicles (ZEVs) , currently requires 20 per cent of new light-duty vehicle sales to be electric by 2026, 60 per cent by 2030, and 100 per cent by 2035 .

While the 2030 and 2035 benchmarks remain in place, the 2026 milestone will be removed in order to ease pressure on automakers amid escalating trade challenges with the United States.

“We are taking a measured approach — supporting our industries today, while keeping a clear focus on a sustainable future,”

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