Chinese EVs coming to Canada this year and what to expect.

Canada will allow up to 49,000 Chinese electric vehicles annually, with officials saying more than half could be priced under $35,000 within five years; imports are expected to begin this year and experts highlight questions about resale value, parts distribution and winter range.

Canada announced a limit of up to 49,000 Chinese electric vehicles allowed into the market each year, and officials have said more than half could be priced under $35,000 within five years. Imports are likely to start this year, and industry experts have discussed expected price levels, durability in cold weather, parts availability, insurance and warranties. Observers note that how manufacturers choose which models to send and how they support owners will affect costs and ownership experience. Several details about leasing programs, long‑term resale values and distribution plans remain unsettled. Key points: - The federal announcement permits up to 49,000 Chinese EVs per year, and officials have indicated many could be priced below $35,000 within five years. - J.D. Power estimates Chinese models could be about 10–15% cheaper than current Canadian averages for similar segments, with an illustrative subcompact EV price range around $35,700–$37,800 based on last year’s averages. - Cold‑weather testing reported in China showed some Chinese EVs performed well even at very low temperatures, but most vehicles lost a large share of range at about −30°C and Chinese test cycles (CLTC) generally overstate range compared with North American EPA testing. - Common wear items (tires, wipers, brake parts) are widely produced in China and should be broadly available, but initial parts distribution and dealer support at launch may be limited until warehouses and networks are set up. - Analysts say residual values for some Chinese EVs may be lower after one to three years, and the availability of leasing programs from manufacturers is not yet known. - Insurers will initially price by comparing new models to similar vehicles and will adjust as real‑world claims and repair costs become known over time. Summary: These imports are expected to begin this year and could add lower‑priced EV choices to the Canadian market. Several practical matters remain undetermined at this time, including leasing program availability, long‑term resale values, and how quickly parts distribution and warranty support will be established.