Electric vehicle sales surge, putting B.C. on track for emission reductions

The provincial government says more than 54,000 light-duty electric vehicles are now registered in B.C.

Energy Minister Bruce Ralston says that's the highest reported uptake rate of electric vehicles in North America, making the province a leader in the industry.

B.C.'s annual zero-emission vehicle report says residents are also adopting electric technology in less traditional ways, including motorcycles and cargo e-bikes, spurred by a vehicle incentive program.

The report tracks B.C.'s progress for its zero-emission vehicle targets and the province is on track to exceed the 2025 targets with light-duty electric vehicle sales representing 9.4% of all such vehicle sales last year.

The Zero-Emission Vehicles Act requires vehicle makers to meet increasing annual levels of electric vehicle sales of 10% by 2025, 30% by 2030 and 100% by 2040.