Electric vehicles: suspension of incentives will not prevent people from buying a second car

Despite the upheavals in provincial and federal incentives surrounding the purchase of electric vehicles in recent days, consumers have not lost faith in this technology. Quite the contrary. Some are even thinking of getting a second car as soon as possible.

We saw this at the Montreal Auto Show, where several people were analyzing the different brands on the floor. They also asked the representatives several questions to find out the particularities of each car and of course, the prices. This is the case of Benoit Simard, who was shopping for his second electric vehicle.

The Terrebonne resident fell in love with his first electric vehicle. His favorable experience allowed him to make significant savings.

“It’s worth it and I saved a lot of money on gas,” says the owner of a Hyundai Kona. My gas car remains in the yard.”

With or without incentives, its next car will be electric. There is no compromise possible.

“It will be 100% electric. I no longer have to change oil or spark plugs. You definitely win in the long run.”

BYD: a wish

Mr. Simard would like the Chinese company BYD (Build Your Dreams) to be able to penetrate the Canadian market with its vehicles at an affordable price.

“It won’t be easy with the 100% surtax imposed by the Canadian government. This would have been a good choice for me because their prices are really lower.

“Sooner or later, I think they will find a way to sell their vehicles here. On the other hand, at the same time, I am aware that it could hurt several manufacturers.”

Ctemporary boost

After the surprise announcement from the federal government which ended the granting of a $5,000 incentive for the purchase of an electric vehicle on Monday, certain manufacturers decided to give an additional rebate. This is the case of Hyundai, Volkswagen and General Motors.

However, other manufacturers have not yet announced whether they will imitate their competitors. If this is the case, it will be temporary, according to the Corporation des concessionaires d’automobiles du Québec (CCAQ).

“This is our analysis,” explains CEO Ian P. Sam Yue Chi. GM has already mentioned that it will only be until January 31.”

He expects a significant drop in sales in February and March, when dealers have a large inventory of electric vehicles to liquidate.

A very special father-son outing

Félix Giroux was on his first visit to the Auto Show. The 15-year-old discovered the world of sports and luxury cars with his father. He didn’t have to be asked to get behind the wheel of a $160,000 car even though he doesn’t yet have his license.

“I was the same age as him when I came to the Salon for the first time,” explains his father Benoit with pride. When we come here, it can allow us to dream a little.”

Even if the younger generation likes to turn to electric cars, Félix is ​​not yet convinced by this option.

“It has potential and the cars are beautiful,” he says. However, I like hearing the sound and power of gasoline engines.”

Amazed students

Émile Ducharme and Samuel Guerrero spent many minutes analyzing the modified cars in one of the rooms reserved for this purpose. The two mechanical students were fascinated.

“It’s the detail in the finishing of these vehicles that is impressive,” emphasizes Émile Ducharme. Not just anyone can do that.”

Meanwhile, his friend Samuel looked at a modified BMW with envy. “It’s one of my favorite cars. It would be a dream of mine to own one.”

A Ferrari maniac and… Luc Poirier!

From the first minutes of the Auto Show kick-off, several curious people headed towards the room where Luc Poirier’s collection of luxury cars is located.

Among them, we found fans of Ferrari, but also of the career of the Quebec businessman.

“I have always liked Ferraris,” says Mathieu Landry, who knew all the models on the floor with the approximate price of the vehicles.

“I like businessmen like him [Luc Poirier] and the way they think. Cars are the icing on the sundae of his career.”

Expensive cars

The price of vehicles is a concern among consumers and we clearly felt this when discussing with them on the floor.

“I would like to change my Ford Ranger, but they are expensive,” says Daniel Picard, who drove two hours to come to the event presented at the Palais des congrès. Before, they were more accessible.

“I paid $10,000 for my first Ranger, which is worth $60,000 today. If I want another one, I’ll go for used ones.”