Hydro-Québec reacts to an article about electric vehicles published on January 14

Hydro-Québec wishes to correct certain perceptions in response to the column by Myriam Ségal published on January 14, entitled “Hybrides ou électriques?”

The Electric Circuit, discussed in the column, is the largest public charging network for electric vehicles (EVs) in Québec. Its mission is to support the arrival of EVs on our roads, allowing drivers to top up their batteries, if needed, at one the network’s 241 charging stations. Joining the Electric Circuit means signing up for peace of mind.

EV drivers leave home each morning with a fully charged vehicle. More than 80% of charging needs are met at home or at work. The Electric Circuit’s goal is to meet drivers’ various needs.

Use of charging stations on the rise

Since December 2012, monthly charges across the network have risen from 200 to almost 1,000. This number continues to go up. Furthermore, some 1,500 drivers have obtained an Electric Circuit card, which represents almost 70% of Québec’s EV drivers. The popularity of the Electric Circuit among EV owners is a clear sign of its usefulness.

The Electric Circuit business model

Although Hydro-Québec was asked by the government to support the deployment of public infrastructure, it is the private and institutional partners that have joined the network—like Rôtisseries St-Hubert, Hôtel Chicoutimi and Cégep de Jonquière—who pay for the charging stations, which they own. The rollout of the network relies in great part on the interest and investment of the 54 partners that decided to offer charging to their clientele.

A variety of plug-in EVs

Plug-in EVs include more than just all-electric vehicles that are powered exclusively by batteries. It is important to inform the public well and to provide them with all the necessary information. In addition to all-electrics, there are plug-in hybrids and extended range vehicles. There is thus an electric—or partly electric—solution for every need and every type of traveler.

The “magnetic highway” concept mentioned in the column refers to induction charging, which is still under study, whereas charging stations, such as those used by the Electric circuit, are already in operation and have proven themselves in Québec, as well as with our southern neighbors.

With more than 2,200 plug-in vehicles on the road, almost half of Canadian EVs, Québec is regarded as a key player in electric transportation.

In northeastern North America, we are at the forefront in this area, which should be a source of pride.

The shift that our society is making towards electric transportation will allow us to use our clean electricity to run our vehicles. Hydro-Québec is proud to support this forward-looking movement. In this respect, the national strategy announced by the Première in November demonstrates real leadership.