The electrification of Canada’s vehicles is about to kick into high gear, and the 2023 Canadian International AutoShow says it is presenting consumers all they need to know as they transition to a future of zero-emission vehicles.
The Canadian government has mandated that all new vehicles sold in the country by 2035 be zero-emission vehicles. Sales of EVs in Canada crossed the five per cent threshold last year, and patterns around the world have shown that number as the tipping point — market share of EVs is expected to skyrocket in the next few years.
Automotive manufacturers are answering the call. Electric or hydrogen-powered vehicles can be found across the AutoShow’s showrooms, both production vehicles and innovative concepts that show how electrification does not sacrifice performance, the AutoShow said in a news release.
The show is responding to this with a new feature — Electric City — and the largest indoor EV test track in Canada as the show returns to Metro Convention Centre Feb. 17 to 26 for its 50th anniversary after skipping two years amid COVID lockdowns.
“Today’s automotive world is far removed from that which existed when the first AutoShow was staged in Toronto 50 years ago,” says Jason Campbell, general manager of the AutoShow.
“We were dealing with an oil crisis then. Today we are in motion to move away from fossil fuels entirely, and consumers are going to have a lot of questions about what the future looks like. The answers can be found all across the AutoShow.”
Electric City is the one-stop destination for AutoShow attendees to learn everything about automotive electrification. It is a showcase of the ecosystem that supports the new age of mobility, empowering consumers to explore the charging options in market for EV owners and prospective buyers and learn more about the switch to electric vehicles.
Among the features at Electric City:
- Exhibit sponsor EnerSavings is showcasing its residential charging solutions with experts on hand to answer questions, demonstration models of charging systems for homes, condominiums and businesses and will be hosting panel discussions on the electrification of mobility.
- EV charging solutions from the Ivy Charging Network and Ontario Power Generation.
- An indoor micro-mobility test track where attendees can try a range of electric bikes from Amego EV, as well as the SARIT (Safe Affordable Reliable Innovative Transport) – the latest innovation from Magna founder Frank Stronach.
- Technology innovators from both the Canadian East and West coasts will be showcased with the launch of the all-new outdoor adventure vehicle from Potential Motors.
- A self-propelled high-tech AI Stroller from Vancouver-based Glüxkind – a company most recently awarded honours at the CES Show in Las Vegas for Innovation.
- Electric vehicle test drive operator — and sponsor of the AutoShow’s EV Test Track — Plug’n Drive will be stationed in Electric City to answer questions about the process of switching to a fully electric vehicle
There is also the OVIN Corner, a showcase of the Ontario Vehicle Innovation Network, which includes:
- LoopX AI, founded by a group of ronotics students at the University of Waterloo in 2022, with its AI-powered autonomous solutions, from robot deliveries to haulage systems to underground mining.
- Haze Canada, which has developed a new carbon fibre material that is stiffer than steel yet lighter than aluminum, providing better solutions for mobility applications.
- Electric City will also feature displays by Sailun Tire, the City of Toronto and Steer EV
A major new addition to the 2023 AutoShow is Canada’s largest indoor EV Test Track, giving guests the opportunity to get behind the wheel of one of 19 EVs from nine automotive brands.
Guided by experts, it is a test drive of the future of mobility on a 70,000-sq.-ft. test track right inside the Metro Toronto Convention Centre. Vehicles available for a test drive include the Cadillac LYRIQ, Chevrolet Bolt, Hyundai IONIQ 5 and Kona, Kia Niro and EV6, Nissan ARIYA, Subaru Solterra, Lexus NX Hybrid, Toyota RAV4 Prime PHEV and bZ4X and the Vinfast VF8.
Drivers will get to enjoy a two-lap spin around the track. Participants must be 21 years of age or older with a valid full-class driver’s licence.
For more information or to buy tickets, visit autoshow.ca.
