Electric vehicles have had a rough time in British Columbia as of late. First, the EV rebate is revoked, and now BC Ferries is prohibiting a number of them from boarding their vessels.
If you’re looking to hop onto one of BC Ferries’ ships with your EV, then you’ll want to make sure you’re not included on the no-ride list.
DAMAGE ISSUES
Due to changes on Transport Canada’s side, BC Ferries will no longer be able to allow damaged vehicles on board– in other words, transported.
These changes won’t be a problem for you as long as your electric vehicle doesn’t have any major damage. Things like minor scratches, dings, and dents are allowed at the vessel Master’s discretion. Damage only becomes an issue once the vehicle’s insides are being exposed.
EVs with major damage are no longer allowed onto BC Ferries’ vessels due to the danger of EV batteries. Although lithium-ion batteries are used widely and quite often, ones that are damaged pose a potential fire risk, as well as environmental. To keep the crew and passengers safe, BC Ferries have prohibited such damaged batteries from EVs from being transported.
FIRE HAZARD
Thus, if your EV has any major damage, it cannot be allowed onboard. That includes exposed batteries, wiring issues, and fluid leaks– all things that can lead to dangerous situations that puts everyone at risk on the vessel.
Furthermore, EVs will no longer be able to charge at BC Ferries properties and on their vessels. Electric, hybrid, and alternative energy vehicles are included in this.
It’s always best to get major battery damage repaired as soon as possible when it comes to EVs, but it may be more difficult if your only available mechanic is across the water. With Transport Canada’s changes, BC Ferries will also not allow EVs that aren’t being driven to be onboard.
If your car is on a tow truck, needing to be fixed in Vancouver, then you’ll have to find another way to get it there.
