A new Leger survey suggests more than half of Canadians do not want Ottawa to outlaw the sale of new gasoline and diesel vehicles in a decade.
The Canadian Taxpayers Federation (CTF) commissioned the poll, which shows 54% oppose the federal zero-emission mandate set to kick in by 2035, while 36% support it, and 10% remain unsure.
When undecided respondents are removed, six in 10 people say they reject the planned ban.
CTF BC director Carson Binda said forcing drivers to switch will “drive up costs and take away Canadians’ ability to choose the vehicle that works best for them.”
Binda warned taxpayers would be on the hook for charging stations, grid upgrades, and “massive subsidies” to prop up electric vehicle sales.
The federal plan requires automakers to ensure all new light-duty cars and trucks are zero-emission within 10 years.
Environment Minister Steven Guilbeault insists the target is essential for meeting Canada’s climate commitments, though the latest polling suggests the government still faces a sales job.
Leger surveyed 1,614 adults between April 15 and 17. The margin of error is 2.5%, 19 times out of 20.
