Photo: Contributed The Chinese made Dongfeng Nammi Box EV $25,000 in Europe Why are we, in Canada, blocking the Chinese electric vehicles that we need? U.S. and Canadian automakers have been very slow to roll out electric vehicles and now, when electrifying transportation is critical to meet climate commitments, they are slowing production, switching to a “balanced approach,” which promotes more internal combustion engines.
Automakers have also shifted attention from daily commute vehicles to heavier special purpose vehicles. Automakers are rolling out electric SUVs, such as the Ford Mustang MachE, the Hyundai Ioniq 5 and the Kia EV6. Heavy duty electric trucks include the Ford F-150 Lightning, the Rivian R1T, the GMC Sierra.
Why? These heavy vehicles have a higher profit margin. Targeted advertising taught us that we need to plan our car purchases, not for daily driving but for activities—such as pulling a boat—that happen once a year. These heavy vehicles come with a high price tag, between $60,000 and $100,000 (Unless specified, all numbers are quoted in USD).
Meanwhile, small and reliable EVs have been discontinued, such as the Smart fortwo, the Volkswagen e-Golf, the MINI Cooper and Kia Soul EV. Nisssan intends to end production of the Nissan Leaf in 2026. After canceling the Chevy Bolt, GM has now done an about-face and has announced it will continue production.
What is missing is an affordable electric car, suitable for picking up the kids, buying groceries, dr.