A year like no other
The crisis is far from over, trends from 2020 are likely to spill over into 2021, and COVID-19 will inevitably continue to be a catalyst for change in our industry. As I write this column, the clock ticked down on …
Category: The Big Picture: David Adams
Pickup trucks could be the Trojan Horse that will popularize EVs in NA
The popularity of the pickup truck in North America and the potential electric trucks being developed could help pave the way for wider EV adoption. Most of the world’s major automakers, and more than a few startups, have now committed …
Climate change…it’s personal
From my perspective, the issue of climate change is personal. I consider myself an environmentalist, and I generally try to do my part — whether it is recycling, using my car as efficiently as possible, or watching my overall footprint …
Industry zapped by B.C.’s ZEV regulations
What started off as an interesting regulation with lots of potential is now turning into something very different than originally intended. It was a long time coming: British Columbia’s Zero Emission Vehicles Act passed Third Reading and received Royal Assent …
Changing of the Guard
At the beginning of August there will be a new head of the Canadian Vehicle Manufacturers Association (CVMA) for the first time in more than a quarter century. Brian Kingston will be taking over the reins of the association from …
Providing clarity in the midst of chaos
As the pandemic unfolded, Ontario dealerships were looking for clearer guidance on how to operate. COVID-19 has brought with it profound impact on individuals and businesses alike. Unemployment figures released in Canada as I write this column have risen to …
The space between
The global pandemic has shaken assumptions and forced us to adapt. But it’s also opened up new opportunities, insights and connections. The Space Between is the title of a Dave Matthews Band song that I really enjoy. The space between …
Policy makers blinded by bright shiny things
Campaign promises don’t always lead to good environmental policy As a person diagnosed with ADHD, I am familiar with the concept of having my attention stolen by a shiny thing, while I am trying to concentrate and work on a …
Brace for impact
Autonomous and connected vehicles will transform the industry. You really can’t go to any automotive conference or symposium of any consequence without a speaker — or many speakers — discussing the impact of automated and connected vehicles on the automotive …
One state to rule them all, one state to bind them
The fuel economy and greenhouse gas emission standards debate deepens and becomes more complex. Forgive the Lord of the Rings parody in the title, but I couldn’t help thinking about that line when it was announced a couple of weeks …
A taste of things to come
Are mergers the next step to ensuring the survival of OEMs? Towards the end of May, the trade press announced that FCA would enter merger talks with Renault — a merger that, if pursued, would create the third largest automaker …
Clearing up a blurry image
The government clarified its ZEV policy, but questions remain about how effective it will be at achieving its objectives. In the March 19 federal budget, the Liberal government, as expected, announced a federal incentive program of up to $5,000 for …
