Exclusive Poll: 72% of Québecers Would Consider Buying a Chinese EV

Québec Poll: 72% Open to Chinese EVs

A Léger poll conducted from January 30 to February 2, 2026, among 1,570 Canadians has just revealed data that could change Chinese manufacturers' strategy: Québec is significantly more open to Chinese electric vehicles than the rest of Canada. While 61% of Canadians support the arrival of more Chinese EVs on the market, this figure jumps to 72% in Québec. That's a 14-point gap that tells a fascinating story about regional mindsets and should influence where BYD, Chery, and Geely open their first dealerships. ## Key Figures from the Léger Poll

- National support: 61% of Canadians approve of more Chinese EVs arriving (24% strongly, 38% moderately) - Québec support: 72% approval, the highest of all provinces - Awareness of agreement: 70% of respondents were aware of the Canada-China EV agreement - Most favorable groups: Men (67%) and Canadians aged 55+ (69%) - Main concerns: After-sales service quality (64%), spare parts availability (58%), winter durability (52%) "Canadians have radically changed their views over the past 12 months on how we perceive our relationship with China, and this is just one example of that," said Steve Mossop, Léger's executive vice-president for Western Canada. ## Why Is Québec More Open? Several factors explain Québec's exceptional openness to Chinese EVs: 1. History of receptiveness to foreign products: Québec has traditionally been more open to imports than other provinces, with a consumption culture less anchored in "Buy Canadian" than Ontario or Alberta. 2. Increased environmental sensitivity: Québec has the highest EV adoption rate in Canada (18% of new registrations vs. 12% national average). Québecers are more likely to prioritize environmental considerations over vehicle origin. 3. Different car culture: Less attachment to traditional American brands (Ford, GM) than in Ontario or the Prairies, where the domestic auto industry has a strong historical presence. 4. Positive experience with Chinese products: Québec has been a test market for several Chinese electronics and appliances, creating familiarity with the quality of Chinese-manufactured products. 5. Progressive provincial policies: The Roulez Vert programme (now $2,000, reduced from $7,000 in January 2026) has already accustomed Québecers to the idea that governments can influence the EV market.## Implications for Chinese Manufacturers This data should guide Chinese brands' deployment strategy: - Geographic priority: BYD, Chery, and Geely should open their first dealerships in Montreal and Québec City before expanding to Toronto or Vancouver. The Québec market is more mature and receptive. - Targeted communication: Marketing campaigns in Québec can focus on environment and technological innovation, while in Alberta, they may need to emphasize value for money and winter durability. - After-sales service: The 64% of Canadians worried about service represent an opportunity for Geely, which can rely on the existing Volvo network. BYD and Chery will need to invest heavily in technical training and parts availability. - Local partnerships: Collaborating with established Québec dealers could accelerate acceptance, as Hyundai did when entering the Canadian market in the 1980s.## Interprovincial Comparison - Québec: 72% support - British Columbia: 65% (strong EV adoption but environmental concerns about shipping) - Ontario: 58% (influence of domestic auto industry) - Prairies: 52% (strong attachment to pickups and American brands) - Atlantic provinces: 55% (caution but openness to affordable prices)## Evolution Since 2024 The attitude change is dramatic. In 2024, only 25% of Canadians said that a vehicle being made in China would have no effect on their purchase decision. Today, 61% actively support the arrival of these vehicles. Easing trade tensions and growing visibility of Chinese brands (BYD world #1, Geely owner of Volvo) have changed perceptions. ## Challenges Persist Despite general openness, concerns remain: - After-sales service: 64% of respondents, particularly women (68%) and rural residents (71%) - Spare parts: 58%, a major problem for EV owners even of established brands - Canadian winter: 52%, although LFP batteries used by BYD and Chery are renowned for cold resistance - Data security: 47%, a growing concern with connected vehicles## Recommendations for Québec Buyers If you're in Québec and considering a Chinese EV: [Updated April 2026] 1. Take advantage of incentives: $2,000 from Roulez Vert (ending December 2026). Chinese EVs get $0 federal EVAP rebate. 2. Check the service network: Demand a clear plan from the manufacturer for maintenance in your area 3. Test in winter: Insist on a cold-weather test drive to assess real range 4. Compare total cost: A BYD Seal at $49,990 minus $2,000 = $47,990, still $12,000 less than a Tesla Model 3## Québec Poll FAQ## Who conducted the poll? Léger Institute, January 30-February 2, 2026, among 1,570 Canadians, margin of error ±2.5%. ## Why is Québec more open? Combination of environmental sensitivity, history of openness to imports, and car culture less attached to American brands. ## Will Québecers actually buy Chinese EVs? The poll measures intent, not purchase. But intent is a strong predictor, especially with prices 20-30% lower than established brands. ## Are concerns about after-sales service justified? Yes, no Chinese manufacturer yet has a service network in Canada. Geely has an advantage via Volvo, BYD and Chery must build theirs. ## How should manufacturers respond? Open dealerships in Montreal and Québec City first, train local technicians, and guarantee spare parts availability. ## Will support remain high if the first models have problems? Likely not. First impressions are crucial. A successful launch in Québec could create a ripple effect across the rest of Canada.