DON’T BE FUEL-ISH

THE DARK TRUTH ABOUT EV ADOPTION IN CANADA—AND POTENTIAL SOLUTIONS

By Max Reid

If you looked at Canada strictly from its federal stance on EVs, you could be forgiven for mistaking Toronto as the nation’s capital.

As automakers and governments of all levels start implementing legislation to mandate the sales of EVs, as well as the curtailment of carbon emissions, our fellow Canadians outside of major urban centres have, and continue to express dissatisfaction toward plans that they feel don’t take their daily reality into account. People in the prairies aren’t any keener on environmental disaster than we are in the city. So, when they hear, “EVs are going to be mandatory soon, get in line. By the way, we still have no solution for cold weather charging,” people are justifiably peeved. However, there is a flip side to that coin that warrants discussion.

Saskatchewan, for example, is still 40 percent reliant on coal and coke-based power, according to Canada Energy Regulator. Alberta’s coal and coke usage currently sits at 43 percent. Were Saskatchewan and Alberta to be put on the same EV playing field as everyone else, it would contribute to, and worsen, an energy infrastructure that is simply incompatible with environmental sustainability.

Without the ability to close the loop on EVs, as both a clean method of travel for the individual and an effective platform upon which to cut larger-scale carbon emissions, the government has started the clock without making sure everyone is even at the starting line.

Luckily, we have people in our industry working hard to find ways to close that loop and develop technology that extends the good intention of the electric vehicle to the power grid at-large. The answer may lie in bi-directional charging.

Bi-directional charging is a reciprocal form of EV charging where, as a regular charging station transfers stored energy from the power source (i.e., house, gas station, etc.) to the vehicle, a bi-directional charging station can return stored energy back to the house, helping power the home while the vehicle is not being used. This technology puts power back into the hands of the consumer, almost literally, allowing them to directly contribute the energy stored in their vehicle to the powering of a home.

Of course, this is only a band-aid applied to the wider issue of getting these provinces off harmful energy sources, but that it is an issue to be solved by a different magazine. EVs are here to stay; that’s just the truth of it. There have been just a few too many hurricanes, forest fires, oil spills and tainted water to be content with the status quo. Operating an EV infrastructure within a pre-existing natural gas-based framework is obviously less than ideal, but it will by no means stop the work either.

Nova Scotia, for example, despite a mix of available energy sources, derives 63 percent of its power from coal, and yet is also taking large strides toward establishing a robust EV infrastructure, having recently closed its charging loop, connecting the entire province to the charging grid. Tradition, legacy and ego aside, if Saskatchewan and Alberta can’t get on board with clean energy some time soon, EVs will very likely never fulfill their purpose. There are issues with EVs and their handling of the extreme cold and long distances, but the work is being done and those issues are not unique to the West. If there is an anti-prairie conspiracy afoot, it hasn’t been well hidden. The climate is in crisis and Canada demands clean energy.

Facebook
Twitter
LinkedIn
Email
"Cars in a Professional Collision Repair Workshop with Technicians Expertly Restoring Vehicles to Pre-Collision Glory"

Unraveling the Essentials: A Comprehensive Guide to Efficient Collision Repair Solutions

In the aftermath of a traffic accident, navigating the maze of collision repair can be a daunting ordeal. Yet, the key to swiftly restoring the harmony between life and the road lies in understanding the essentials of efficient collision repair solutions. This comprehensive guide is designed to unravel these essentials, ensuring that your vehicle receives the care it needs to return to its pre-collision glory.

**1. Initial Assessment and Estimation**

The first step in the collision repair process involves a thorough assessment and estimation. Professionals will examine your vehicle to determine the extent of the damage. Utilizing latest technologies, such as 3D scanning and computerized estimating systems, repair shops can provide accurate and detailed estimates, ensuring transparency and fairness in the repair process. Prioritizing shops that offer free, no-obligation estimates can also be a beneficial practice.

**2. Choosing OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) Parts vs. Aftermarket Parts**

A crucial decision in the repair process is the choice between OEM parts and aftermarket parts. OEM parts are produced by the vehicle’s manufacturer and guarantee a perfect fit and optimal performance, maintaining your vehicle’s value and integrity. Meanwhile, aftermarket parts, often less expensive, might not always match the exact specifications of your vehicle, potentially affecting performance and safety. For high-quality repairs, OEM parts are generally recommended, though in some cases, aftermarket parts can serve as a budget-friendly alternative without compromising on safety.

**3. Technological Expertise and Certification**

The complexity of modern vehicles, with their advanced safety systems and computerized components, requires a high level of technological expertise. Choosing a repair shop with certified technicians, who are trained in the latest repair techniques and technologies, is essential. Certifications from organizations like I-CAR (Inter-Industry Conference on Auto Collision Repair) signal a technician’s skills and knowledge in collision repair, offering reassurance that your vehicle is in capable hands.

**4. Paint Matching and Finishing Techniques**

The final appearance of your vehicle, upon completion of repairs, is predominantly determined by the quality of paint matching and finishing techniques. Advanced color matching technology ensures a seamless blend between the repaired areas and the original paintwork, preserving the aesthetic appeal of your vehicle. A high-quality repair shop will use environmentally friendly, water-based paints, and computerized paint mixing systems to achieve an impeccable finish.

**5. Understanding the Warranty**

Before committing to a repair shop, understanding the warranty offered on the repair work is critical. A reputable shop will stand behind its work with a comprehensive warranty that covers both parts and labor. Ensure you are clear about the warranty’s duration and what it entails. A solid warranty is a testament to the confidence a repair shop has in its workmanship and the quality of the parts used.

**6. Communication and Customer Service**

Excellent communication and customer service are the hallmarks of a reputable collision repair shop. The repair process should be transparent, with regular updates on the progress of your vehicle’s repairs. Professional shops will handle the coordination with insurance companies, alleviating one more concern from your list. Selecting a repair facility that values customer service ensures a more manageable and stress-free repair experience.

In conclusion, efficient collision repair solutions hinge on making informed decisions at each step of the process. From the initial assessment to the final touches, understanding the essentials delineated in this guide empowers you as a vehicle owner, ensuring that your collision repair journey culminates in a seamless and satisfactory outcome. Remember, quality repairs are an investment in your vehicle’s future, safeguarding its performance, safety, and resale value.

Read More »

AN ELECTRIFYING EXPANSION

AN ELECTRIFYING EXPANSION PREPARING FOR AN ECO-FRIENDLY FUTURE THIS YEAR, I-CAR AND THE CANADIAN WELDING BUREAU (CWB) HAVE JOINED FORCES TO FURTHER EXPAND WELDING TRAINING

Read More »

NOT JUST A HUMBLE HAND TOOL

NOT JUST A HUMBLE HAND TOOL TAKE FUTURE REPAIRS INTO YOUR OWN HANDS HAND TOOLS ARE JUST AS IMPORTANT IN TODAY’S COLLISION REPAIR INDUSTRY AS

Read More »

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *