Chinese EVs Coming to Canada
Chinese EVs Coming to Canada
Canada has opened the door to Chinese electric vehicles, here's what you need to know.
What's Happening
Starting in January 2026, Canada began allowing imports of Chinese-manufactured electric vehicles, with an annual quota of 49,000 vehicles at a 6.1% tariff rate. This marks a major shift in the Canadian automotive market and opens the door to several new brands and models.
Which Brands Are Coming
BYD
The world's largest EV manufacturer is expected to bring several models to Canada, including the affordable Seagull, the Dolphin, Atto 3, and the performance-oriented Seal.
Chery
Chery is planning to enter with its Omoda and Tiggo lineups, offering competitive SUV options.
MG
Already established in other markets, MG (owned by SAIC) may bring the popular MG4 hatchback and MG ZS EV crossover.
ORA/GWM
Great Wall Motors' ORA brand offers the stylish Good Cat (03), a compact EV aimed at urban drivers.
Zeekr (Geely)
Geely's premium EV brand Zeekr could bring the Zeekr X crossover and the flagship Zeekr 001 shooting brake.
Already Here (China-Made)
Some China-manufactured vehicles are already sold in Canada under established brands:
- Volvo EX30 and Volvo EX40, built in China
- Polestar 2, manufactured in China
Why It Matters for Canadian Buyers
- Lower prices: Chinese EVs are significantly more affordable than many current options
- More choice: New segments and body styles not currently available
- Competition: Established brands will face pressure to improve value
- Winter capability: Many of these vehicles will need to prove themselves in Canadian winters
What to Watch For
- Warranty and service: Will these brands establish proper dealer and service networks? See our Chinese EV Warranty and Service guide.
- Winter performance: Range and charging in Canadian cold, covered in our Winter Range Guide and Best EVs for Canadian Winters
- Safety ratings: Transport Canada and IIHS testing results, see Chinese EV Safety Ratings Explained
- Resale value: Unknown track record in Canada
- Government incentives: Provincial and federal EV rebate eligibility, see Provincial EV Incentives Guide 2026
Keep Reading
- Full buying guide, Complete Buyers Guide, everything you need to know before purchasing
- Tariffs and pricing, Canadas Tariff on Chinese EVs Explained, how the 6.1% tariff and quota affect availability
- Should you wait?, Should You Wait for a Chinese EV, our honest advice on timing
- Best picks by driver type, The Best Chinese EV for Every Type of Canadian Driver, find the right match for your life
- Global track record, How Chinese EVs Conquered Europe, Chinese EVs in Australia, Chinese EVs in Norway, what other markets tell us
- Brand profiles, BYD, Chery, MG, ORA GWM, Geely Zeekr, deep dives on each manufacturer