Register now to become an EVfriendly certified provider.
If you are not yet familiar with EVfriendly, in short, it is an industry-led program, powered by the Automotive Retailers Association, sponsored by the Ministry of Energy, Mines, and Low Carbon Innovation, designed to cultivate a higher degree of confidence in zero-emission vehicle (ZEV) ownership. The program helps ensure that only trained and qualified industry professionals are selling, servicing, repairing, and recycling ZEVs, in a responsible and safe manner, while providing consumers with information to make informed choices.
The genesis of the program began over two years ago shortly after the B.C. government announced its ZEV mandate for 100 percent EV sales by 2040. (This timeline has now been moved up to 100 percent by 2035). It is an ambitious goal, but one that is supported by many people and organizations across Canada. However, little thought had been given to how or even who would be qualified to service this new fleet of vehicles. EVs and gasoline-powered vehicles share many similar components, but where they differ, they differ widely, and the current infrastructure needs to adapt at pace with their rapid growth—especially if they are to become normalized among the motoring public.
Most people, and even many industry professionals, do not fully understand the basic mechanics of how EVs operate let alone how to service them properly and safely. This not only applies to the repair industry but also to towing and recovery, used auto sales, and recycling. When we get into our gas-powered vehicles and turn or press the ignition switch, we understand the basic mechanics of how that vehicle operates. Not so with EVs. This brings things like safety and maintenance to the forefront, along with an assurance for consumers that there are industry professionals who can tow, repair, and recycle their vehicles.
EVfriendly addresses these concerns and more! The EVfriendly website is the place to start learning more about EVs. There is a portal for consumers to learn about EVs and where to find a qualified EVfriendly professional to service their vehicle, and there is a portal for industry to learn more about the program and register to become an EVfriendly-certified service provider.
For more information about the program and how to register your business, visit evfriendly.ca or watch our instructional video podcast available on the EVfriendly Facebook page and EVfriendly YouTube channel.
We gratefully acknowledge the financial support of the Province of British Columbia through the Ministry of Energy, Mines, and Low Carbon Innovation.
Go to EVfriendly.ca and download the Guide to Becoming an EVfriendly Certified Supplier to get started!
