Electric Cars From Overseas We Wish Were Sold in Canada

Are there enough electric vehicle models to choose from in Canada, and Quebec in particular? Many people will say no, especially when compared to Europe and China.

Of course, some of the EVs sold overseas are not really designed for North American drivers and would likely enjoy little success here. It could be a different story for others, however, especially SUVs and crossovers.

Here is a bunch of models we’ve singled out. Which ones would you like to see on our roads?

Volkswagen ID.3

Shorter, lower and lighter than the ID.4 crossover, the ID.3 hatchback looks like a futuristic Golf. It would go head-to-head with the likes of the Chevrolet Bolt EV and Hyundai Kona Electric. The main difference is that it features a RWD configuration instead of FWD. Output is rated at 204 hp and maximum range is 556 km based on the WLTP standard.

BYD Han

BYD is the second largest EV manufacturer on the planet after Tesla. Its halo car is the Han sedan, which is admittedly more stylish than the Model 3—front and rear. The interior is rather classy while boasting a similar 15-inch centre display. Chinese test cycles give the Han a range of about 600 km.

Nio ET5

Another Chinese sedan and Model 3 rival, the ET5 has a minimalist cabin and lovely virtual assistant on the dashboard. What makes it stand out from the competition is the battery-swapping program: no need to plug the car, drivers simply make a stop at a Nio centre where technicians remove the empty battery and install a fresh one in mere minutes.

Honda e

The first-generation Civic had a unique appeal, and this Honda e tries to keep its spirit alive in some way, while offering a fun driving experience. Output is either 134 hp or 152 hp depending on the model, with 232 lb-ft. of torque. The small 35.5kWh battery enables just 220 km of range based on the WLTP standard, unfortunately.

Peugeot 208

How could we not include a Peugeot on this list? The 208 hatchback is available as a fully electric model with 136 hp and a WLTP-estimated range of 400 km. The exterior is pretty sleek, while the interior has a driver-centric layout. A crossover variant like the Peugeot 2008 might be more popular in Canada, mind you.

Cupra Born

Cupra is the new sports brand of Spanish automaker Seat, part of the Volkswagen Group. Operating in Europe, South America and even Mexico, it could be targeting Canada and the U.S. as part of an upcoming expansion. We hope so because the Cupra Born is an extremely attractive EV with 204 hp or 231 hp depending on the model, plus a choice of two batteries allowing a range of up to 552 km as rated by the WLTP.

Skoda Enyaq iV

Also part of the Volkswagen family, Czech automaker Skoda has an interesting electric crossover called Enyaq iV that is available in both standard and coupe-like body styles, with a front fascia similar to BMW cars. Battery options include 62kWh and 82kWh packs, good for up to 447 km of range in the WLTP test cycle.

Mercedes-Benz EQA

We’ve liked the EQA ever since the concept debuted six years ago. Mercedes-Benz prefers to focus on larger, more expensive EVs in the North American market, such as the EQE and EQS. Even the EQB fits that bill. A smaller, more affordable vehicle like the EQA could prove successful, too. The dual-motor variant generates 288 hp and 383 lb-ft. of torque.

Ora Funky Cat

Produced by Great Wall Motors and sold in multiple countries, the Funky Cat is a quirky little EV from China that looks a bit like a MINI. Under the clean body is a single motor delivering up to 170 hp in sporty GT trim. Maximum range is advertised at 500 km based on the old NEDC standard, so more like 300 km in the real world.