Electric vehicle drivers in Canada will soon be able to travel to the U.S. with less worry about where to charge their vehicles.
Transportation officials from both countries announced in Detroit Tuesday afternoon, that the first alternative fuel corridor between the two countries is being created.
The announcement was made by Canadian Transport Minister Omar Alghabra, U.S. Secretary of Transportation Pete Buttigieg, Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer, and Detroit Mayor Mike Duggan. Alghabra and Buttigieg were already in Detroit for an APEC (Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation) conference.
"This new corridor will ensure that charging stations are no more than 80 kilometres, or 50 miles apart, along a route that represents one of the busiest passenger and trade corridors between our two countries," said Alghabra.
The corridor will run from Kalamazoo, Michigan, along the I-94 freeway to Detroit, then through the Windsor-Detroit Tunnel into Canada. From Windsor, it will continue along Highway 401 to Toronto, Highway 20 in Montreal, then Highway 40 through Quebec City. Chargers will be placed within six kilometres of the highways.
Each charging station will include at least one Direct Current (D.C.) fast charger with Combined Charging System (CCS) ports. There are 215 charging stations ready along the entire corridor, with Alghabra promising more.
Buttigieg said the main purpose of the corridor is to provide convenience to EV drivers.
"Our goal is for EV drivers to travel far and wide without having to wonder or worry about finding a place to charge, not just in the U.S., but across North America," said Buttigieg.
The first alternative fuel corridor is the product of a joint statement released in March by Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and U.S. President Joe Biden. Both governments say the corridor will help enhance each nation's economy, create jobs, and promote tourism.
