First Chinese EV-maker begins sending cars to Canada
Geely became the first Chinese automaker to ship electric vehicles directly to Canada on May 7, exporting 18 Lotus Eletre crossovers under a new trade deal that reduced tariffs from 100% to 6.1%. The move follows Canada’s January agreement to allow up to 49,000 Chinese EVs annually, signaling broader competition in Canada’s EV market.
Geely, a Chinese automaker, shipped 18 Lotus Eletre electric crossovers from Wuhan, China, to Canada on May 7, marking the first direct export of Chinese EVs to the country. The shipment follows a January trade deal between Canada and China, which reduced tariffs on Chinese EVs from 100% to 6.1% and set an annual import quota of 49,000 vehicles. Previously, Canada imposed high tariffs to protect its domestic market from China’s lower-priced EVs, but Prime Minister Mark Carney reversed the policy to strengthen trade relations. The Lotus Eletre models are the first Chinese EVs certified under Canada’s Motor Vehicle Safety Standards, allowing them to be sold legally. Geely plans to open a dozen dealerships in Canada by the end of 2026 to support sales. Other Chinese automakers, including BYD and Chery, are preparing to enter the Canadian market, hiring staff in anticipation of expanded EV exports. The trade agreement and safety approvals have accelerated the entry of Chinese EVs into Canada, offering consumers more choices and potential price competition. Chinese EVs often cost significantly less than North American models, which could pressure automakers to improve affordability and innovation. If more companies follow Geely’s lead, Canadian drivers may soon see a wider range of electric vehicles at varying price points. The move also highlights how trade policies and regulatory approvals can quickly open new markets for electric vehicles. For Canadian shoppers, this could mean greater competition, lower prices, and faster adoption of EV technology. The development aligns with global trends toward electrification and technological democratization in the automotive industry.
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