Canada Ditches Government Limos For Evs, Expands Infrastructure

While much of the 2016 budget focuses on supporting and growing the country's middle class (the budget's title is Growing The Middle Class), Canada also addresses a host of environmental concerns, including greenhouse gas emissions and alternative fuel technology. In fact, there's a whole chapter on A Clean Growth Economy.

In the budget, Canada proposes setting aside $62.5 million Canadian ($47.2 million US) for the alternative fuel infrastructure, which includes EV charging and natural gas and hydrogen fueling stations. "Early action is needed to support the transition to low-carbon transportation fuels, as vehicle choices made today will determine the mix of technologies on the road in 2030," the budget reads. It is also expanding tax incentives to businesses to invest in EV charging and electricity storage. "These resources will also support technology demonstration projects that advance electric vehicle charging technology," it reads.

Another $56.9 million ($43 million) is proposed for a cleaner transportation sector, which was responsible for 23 percent of Canada's greenhouse gas emissions in 2013. Included in this proposal is the development of international emissions standards for air, rail and marine transport. The budget also looks to improve life for city dwellers through improvements in public transport. As cities have expanded, public transit hasn't kept up. Congestion and longer commutes are hurting businesses, families and the environment. The new budget proposes investing up to $3.4 billion in public transit over three years. "These investments," the budget reads, "will help to shorten commute times, cut air pollution, strengthen communities and grow Canada's economy."

In the spirit of putting its money where its mouth is, the Canadian government has announced plans to get rid of its limousines and replace them with electric vehicles. In a country that has taken a hit from low oil prices (another topic discussed in the budget), it's a heartening gesture to see a focus on a cleaner economy and transport.