Is Canada’s electric vehicle strategy really failing—or just evolving? In this interview, National Observer columnist Max Fawcett breaks down why Canada’s EV rollout appears to be struggling today, with EVs making up just 3.5% of the national fleet compared to much higher adoption rates in China. But the real story isn’t about failure—it’s about a strategic pivot.

We explore how federal policy is shifting away from reliance on North American automakers toward deeper engagement with global players, especially in Asia. The conversation dives into industrial policy, supply chains, and why China’s integration of climate and economic strategy is reshaping the global auto industry.

With U.S. automakers under pressure and global competition accelerating, Canada faces a critical choice: cling to the status quo or adapt to a rapidly changing market. The stakes are high—not just for climate policy, but for jobs, trade, and the future of the Canadian economy.