Honda's EV $15-billion Ontario project will be important step forward for Canada’s economy, say politicians
Honda, along with the provincial and federal governments, announced Thursday that it will be building a new electric vehicle battery plant in Ontario, next to its existing Alliston assembly plant.
The project is expected to create 1,000 new jobs in addition to the 4,200 already existing at the plant, which will be retooled.
The $15-billion EV project will also include two other plants “elsewhere in Ontario” that will produce cathodes and separators, CTV reported.
“It’s clear evidence that we have the best auto workers in the world,” said Minister of Innovation, Science and Industry François-Philippe Champagne at the press conference.
“Today, we’re telling the world, Canada is the place to be.”
Honda plant in Ontario largest electric auto investment in Canada’s history
It’s the largest electric auto investment in Canada’s history, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said. Along with Ontario premier Doug Ford, the investment was lauded as a major step forward for Canada’s international industrial presence.
“By being a green manufacturing hub, we will be a leader in the industry,” said Champagne.
“Exceptional” workers in Alliston were singled out as the reason Honda decided to bring the plant to Canada.
The federal government is expected to give Honda roughly $2.5 billion in tax credits for clean energy and electric vehicle supply chain investment, CTV reported.
Ontario will contribute up to $2.5 billion for capitol costs and site services.
