Ontario: Buying an EV Without Provincial Rebates in 2025
Ontario offers no EV rebates, but an electric vehicle can still be worth it. Here's how to maximize your savings.
NextGreenPath
EV Expert
Ontario: Buying an EV Without Provincial Rebates in 2025
Bad news upfront: Ontario offers no provincial rebate for electric vehicle purchases since 2018. But don't close this page — an EV can still be an excellent financial choice.
Why Ontario Has No Rebates
In 2018, the Ford government cancelled Ontario's EV rebate program, which offered up to $14,000. This decision remains controversial but hasn't been reversed.
The federal iZEV program offered a $5,000 cushion, but it's been on pause since January 2025.
What's Still Available in Ontario
1. Green License Plate
EV owners can get a green license plate for free, which provides:
2. Carbon Tax Exemption
You don't pay carbon tax on electricity, unlike gasoline.
3. Charging Station Programs
Some programs remain active for station installation:
4. Business Incentives
If you're a business owner:
Why Buying an EV in Ontario Is Still Advantageous
Fuel Savings
Even without rebates, the savings are substantial:
| EV | Gas | |
|---|---|---|
| Cost per 100 km | ~$5 | ~$15 |
| Annual cost (20,000 km) | $1,000 | $3,000 |
| Savings over 8 years | — | $16,000 |
Ontario Electricity Rates
Ontario uses Time-of-Use (TOU) pricing:
| Period | Rate (¢/kWh) | When |
|---|---|---|
| Off-peak | 7.6 | Night (7 PM - 7 AM) |
| Mid-peak | 12.2 | Daytime |
| On-peak | 15.8 | Morning/evening |
Tip: Schedule charging at night to pay only 7.6¢/kWh — that's about $2 per 100 km!
Reduced Maintenance
EVs require much less maintenance:
Ontario's Charging Network
Ontario has an expanding charging network:
Ivy Charging Network
Other Networks
| Network | Stations in Ontario | Type |
|---|---|---|
| ChargePoint | 1,000+ | L2 and DC |
| FLO | 400+ | L2 and DC |
| Tesla Supercharger | 100+ | DC fast |
| Electrify Canada | 50+ | DC fast |
| Petro-Canada | 40+ | DC fast |
Comparison: Real 8-Year Cost
Toyota Camry vs Tesla Model 3
| Category | 2025 Camry LE | 2025 Model 3 |
|---|---|---|
| Purchase price | $32,000 | $54,990 |
| Fuel (8 years) | $24,000 | $8,000 |
| Maintenance (8 years) | $6,000 | $2,000 |
| Depreciation | -$14,000 | -$22,000 |
| Total cost | $48,000 | $42,990 |
Even paying $23,000 more upfront, the Model 3 costs $5,000 less over 8 years!
Tips for Ontarians
1. Negotiate the Price
Without government rebates, dealers are more flexible on price. Don't hesitate to negotiate!
2. Consider Used EVs
The used market offers excellent values:
3. Watch for iZEV Return
The federal program should resume. If you're not in a hurry, waiting a few months could save you $5,000.
4. Install a Home Charger
The ~$1,500 investment for a Level 2 charger pays off quickly thanks to night rates.
5. Explore Manufacturer Offers
Several offer direct incentives:
The Bottom Line
The lack of provincial rebates is frustrating, but an EV remains an excellent financial decision in Ontario. Fuel and maintenance savings more than compensate for the lack of incentives.
And who knows — maybe someday Ontario will come around!
Last updated: July 2025
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