Rising gasoline prices are expected to increase demand for clean-energy vehicles in British Columbia, particularly plug-in hybrid electric vehicles, according to the New Car Dealers Association of BC.
The association said sustained pressure at the pump is influencing consumer behaviour, with buyers increasingly looking for vehicles that offer lower operating costs and improved fuel efficiency.
“As long as gas prices remain elevated, we expect to see growing interest in clean-energy vehicles,” said Blair Qualey, President and CEO of the New Car Dealers Association of BC, in a statement. “Plug-in hybrids in particular are attracting attention because they give drivers the ability to complete many daily trips using electricity while still having the range and convenience of a gasoline engine when they need it.”
Recent data from S&P Global shows hybrids accounted for 20.9 per cent of new vehicle sales in B.C. in 2025, surpassing electric vehicles at 18.3 per cent. EV adoption declined from 22.8 per cent in 2024.
Qualey said the current market offers more powertrain choice as the industry shifts toward lower-emission vehicles, but affordability remains a key factor in consumer adoption.
“The key is providing drivers with a range of technologies that meet different lifestyles and budgets,” he said. “But when fuel prices remain high, interest in vehicles that reduce reliance on gasoline will only continue to grow.”
The association also raised concerns about British Columbia’s Zero Emission Vehicle mandate, urging the province to align with federal requirements.
“Dealers support electrification and we sell EVs every day,” said Qualey. “But adoption follows affordability, infrastructure, and consumer confidence – not government aspiration. These legislated targets remain overly ambitious and disconnected from reality.”
