BC Ferries has banned damaged electric vehicles (EVs) from its vessels, citing Transport Canada’s safety regulations due to fire risks from lithium-ion batteries. The policy prohibits non-operational EVs, including those towed, and halts EV charging on ferries. This has sparked concerns among residents and towing companies, with calls for transparency and alternative transport solutions.
BC Ferries Enacts Strict Rules on Damaged EVs
BC Ferries, a vital transportation link for British Columbia’s coastal communities, has implemented a new policy prohibiting damaged electric vehicles (EVs) from boarding its vessels, aligning with Transport Canada’s safety regulations. The decision, effective immediately, targets vehicles with significant damage, such as exposed batteries, wiring issues, or fluid leaks, due to the potential fire and environmental risks posed by compromised lithium-ion batteries.
The policy, rooted in a 2014 Transport Canada regulation, mandates that damaged or defective EV batteries be removed and transported separately to mitigate fire hazards, particularly in the confined spaces of roll-on/roll-off ferries. Transport Canada emphasized that while no EV-related safety incidents have been reported on commercial marine vessels, the risks associated with damaged batteries necessitate stringent precautions.
Functional EVs remain permitted on BC Ferries, but non-operational ones, including those on tow trucks, are barred. This has created significant challenges for towing companies and residents, especially on the Gulf Islands, where access to specialized EV repair facilities often requires ferry travel. Jonathan Vipond, owner of Salt Spring Island Towing, highlighted the issue, stating, “There’s no way for me to tow it over on a flatbed tow truck because their wording stated that if it is inoperable, I can’t take it onboard their vessels.”
The policy also prohibits EV charging at ferry terminals and aboard vessels, affecting electric, hybrid, and alternative energy vehicles. This has raised concerns among residents, particularly in remote areas with limited access to mechanics capable of repairing EVs. Langley-Abbotsford MLA Harman Bhangu criticized the lack of public notice, calling it “poor planning that’s hurting people” and demanding transparency on ferry safety standards and compliance costs.
BC Ferries acknowledged the challenges, stating, “We recognize this presents challenges for customers and commercial operators, particularly as EV adoption increases.” The corporation is actively reviewing the policy and seeking clarification from Transport Canada to explore safe, compliant alternatives for transporting damaged EVs. Transport Canada suggested that damaged EVs could be transported via commercial cargo or barge operators, though such options can be costly, with estimates exceeding $1,000 for Gulf Islands residents.
The decision has sparked debate, with some X users labeling EV mandates as impractical, while others see it as a necessary safety measure. British Columbia, a leader in EV adoption with one of the highest per capita rates in Canada, faces a unique challenge as it balances safety with the growing prevalence of EVs. The policy underscores the need for better infrastructure, including accessible EV repair facilities and enhanced fire suppression systems on ferries, to support Canada’s transition to sustainable transport.
Disclaimer: This article is based on reports from credible sources, including CHEK News, CBC News, and Transport Canada statements. Information reflects real-time data as of July 2, 2025, and is subject to change as BC Ferries reviews its policy. For the latest updates, refer to official BC Ferries and Transport Canada announcements.