Union says Windsor’s auto sector can weather Ottawa’s EV mandate pause, while urging Canada to keep pace with global electric vehicle technology.
Windsor’s Industry Faces Policy Shift
Autoworkers in Windsor are unlikely to feel major effects from Ottawa’s decision to pause Canada’s 2026 electric vehicle (EV) sales mandate, according to Unifor Local 444. Prime Minister Mark Carney announced Friday that the government will suspend next year’s target of 20 per cent EV sales while reviewing the policy for 60 days.
Union Leader Voices Confidence
James Stewart, president of Unifor Local 444, which represents workers at Stellantis Windsor Assembly Plant and the NextStar EV battery facility, said the region is well positioned. The Windsor Assembly builds the Chrysler Pacifica hybrid and Dodge Charger Daytona, giving workers flexibility as the market evolves. “The plant will adjust based on the market,” Stewart said, noting its multi-platform capacity for hybrids, EVs, and gas-powered vehicles.
Concerns Over Global Competition
While Stewart understands Ottawa’s short-term relief for automakers, he cautioned that Canada must not fall behind on EV technology. He warned that countries like China are rapidly lowering EV costs through innovation, which could leave Canada struggling to catch up if investment lags. “You’re going to see EVs becoming part of the industry, and if we fall too far behind, we’re not going to be able to make the ground up,” he said.
Government Explains Decision
Carney defended the move, describing it as a measure to ease regulatory pressure on automakers already hit by tariffs. “This will provide immediate financial relief to automakers at a time of increased pressure on their competitiveness,” he said. Despite the pause, Ottawa maintains its long-term goal of reaching 100 per cent EV sales by 2035.
Industry Reactions Mixed
Automakers and suppliers broadly welcomed the pause. Flavio Volpe, president of the Automotive Parts Manufacturers’ Association, likened it to “a well-timed punt” that prevents billions in added costs. However, Stewart said he remains cautiously optimistic about Ottawa’s broader package of support measures, noting questions remain about how they will directly benefit autoworkers.
Outlook for Windsor Workers
With Windsor’s plants already investing in EV and hybrid technology, Stewart expressed confidence in the city’s ability to adapt regardless of policy changes. Both Stellantis and NextStar declined to comment publicly, but union leaders emphasized that Windsor’s workforce is equipped to handle shifts in Canada’s EV strategy.
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