Plug'n Drive launches the world's first Electric Vehicle Discovery Centre in Toronto

Today, representatives from the Ontario cabinet, utilities and organized labour officially opened the Plug'n Drive Electric Vehicle Discovery Centre in northern Toronto. It's the world's first experiential learning facility dedicated to electric vehicle (EV) education and awareness – and it's completely free for consumers.

"The EV Discovery Centre will serve as an EV hub for consumers throughout Ontario and for visitors from around the world," Cara Clairman, President and CEO of Plug'n Drive said. "We are providing a one-stop-shop where consumers can explore and test-drive the latest EV models – alongside charging solutions at home and on the road."

Ontario's Climate Change Action Plan aims to expand EV sales to 5 per cent of all new vehicles sold by 2020. The EV Discovery Centre is a key component in accomplishing this goal.

"We are investing proceeds from Ontario's carbon market into Plug'n Drive's Electric Vehicle Discovery Centre to encourage more Ontarians to make the switch to low-carbon transportation and reduce their greenhouse gas emissions," Minister Glen Murray added. "As part of Ontario's Climate Change Action, we are helping to tackle emissions from the transportation sector, which is the single-largest source of greenhouse gas emissions in the province."

The EVDC is a learning centre that provides visitors with the knowledge they need to consider an EV for their next vehicle purchase. After visitors have expressed interest, the EVDC will refer them to an EV-certified dealership in their area.

"Our research shows that Ontario needs effective EV education and awareness raising initiatives, such as Plug'n Drive's EV Discovery Centre, to speed up EV sales," Clairman concluded. "EVs are fast, dependable and affordable – and they are a key part of a low carbon future for the region and beyond."