April 4, 2012 – B.C.’s Clean Energy Vehicle (CEV) Program is getting an extra jolt from the implementation of the $2.74-million Community Charging Infrastructure Fund that will see 570 public charging stations across municipalities, regional governments, First Nations, and B.C. businesses and institutions by March 31, 2013.

The Community Charging Infrastructure Fund will be managed, promoted and administered by the non-profit Fraser Basin Council.

“The growing need for compatible infrastructure is clear,” said Terry Lake, minister of environment. “Since its launch in December last year, B.C.’s incentive program has resulted in one CEV being sold every 30 hours in this province. That’s 104 British Columbians who are embracing new, green technology that not only reduces GHG emissions, but helps our clean-tech sector.”

The province will also continue to grow the green highway from B.C. to California with three Level 3 DC fast charging stations deployed in the coming months, and another 27 Level 3 DC fast charging stations installed throughout the province in the future. These fast chargers will allow electric vehicle owners to recharge in about 15-20 minutes, and will extend the mobility options for these drivers. These new investments come on the heels of a $261,000-partnership contribution earlier this year by the province to the City of Vancouver to help install over 67 electric vehicle charging stations throughout the city.

“The Fraser Basin Council is proud to partner with the government of B.C. and our regional and business partners to help build the infrastructure of our future,” said David Marshall, executive director of the council. “This program is a good example of innovation and leadership in advancing sustainability.”

“The new car dealers are looking forward to the next CEV milestone as our partners continue to move clean cars into people’s driveways,” said Blair Qualey of the New Car Dealers Association of B.C. “The charging stations will help ensure the new electric vehicle is even more appealing.”