Canadian gasoline consumption reached a record high in the first quarter of 2026, underscoring the continued strength of Canada’s internal combustion vehicle fleet despite the growing presence of zero-emission vehicles.
According to DesRosiers Automotive Consultants (DAC), domestic gasoline consumption totalled 10.33 million cubic metres during the quarter, up 4.2 per cent from the first quarter of 2025.
DAC said gasoline consumption remains an important indicator for the automotive industry because it reflects vehicle usage, kilometres driven and demand for aftermarket products and services. While the transition to zero-emission vehicles and ongoing improvements in fuel efficiency are expected to place downward pressure on fuel consumption over time, those trends have yet to outweigh continued demand from Canada’s broader vehicle fleet.
“Gasoline consumption is one of the many variables DAC tracks when analyzing the aftermarket in Canada,” said Andrew King, Managing Partner at DAC, in a statement. “At the start of the year, gasoline consumption was high and the demand base for the automotive aftermarket remained strong.”
The consultancy noted that the data also provides insight into fuel market trends, including demand for regular and premium gasoline blends and vehicles compatible with E15 fuel.
Looking ahead, DAC said gasoline prices climbed sharply in March following the conflict between the United States and Iran. The firm said it will be monitoring whether higher pump prices dampen fuel consumption and vehicle usage during the second quarter.
