Canadian Electric Vehicles Awarded $1M Contract by Transport Canada to Demonstrate Hybrid Sail/Electric Commercial Marine Zero Emissions Propulsion System

[Parksville, BC, April 2, 2025] – Canadian Electric Vehicles (CanEV), Canada’s longest-running and leading electric vehicle conversion firm, has been awarded a $1 million contract by Transport Canada to demonstrate an innovative hybrid sail/electric commercial marine zero emissions propulsion system operating on the country’s west coast.

At the heart of this groundbreaking initiative is Providence, Canada’s oldest operational commercial passenger vessel. This historic wooden-hulled tall ship operates sail cargo and passenger services to communities throughout the Southern Gulf Islands off British Columbia’s west coast. The project will showcase the viability of hybrid wind / electric propulsion in the commercial marine sector, with key benefits including greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions reductions, coastal noise reduction for marine life, and significant operational and maintenance cost savings.

  “As an Indigenous-owned company, CanEV is proud to be at the forefront of sustainable innovation,” stated Kayle Mather, Director, Engineering, Research & Development, CanEV. “We are excited to partner with Transport Canada and Providence to demonstrate how electrification can modernize marine transportation while preserving our rich maritime heritage.”


 “This project marks an exciting new chapter for Providence and the future of Canadian maritime transport,” said Simon Fawkes, captain and owner of Providence. “As the oldest operational commercial passenger vessel in the country, Providence has long served as a unique link between communities for commerce and human connection. Transitioning to a hybrid sail/electric system ensures that we continue this legacy while embracing sustainability, reducing costs, and setting a precedent for cleaner marine transportation.”


This initiative aligns with the shared mission of Transport Canada, CanEV, and Providence — to foster sustainable innovation and advance the long-term benefits of electrification in marine transportation. By integrating electric propulsion with traditional sailing capabilities, the project highlights the potential for cleaner, more efficient, and economically viable solutions for Canada’s maritime industry.

For more information, please contact:

Todd Maliteare
President
Canadian Electric Vehicles
todd@canev.com
1-250-954-2230
www.canev.com

About Canadian Electric Vehicles

Canadian Electric Vehicles (CanEV) is a pioneering force in EV conversions and transportation electrification solutions. With decades of experience, CanEV specializes in transforming traditional transportation systems into sustainable, high-performance electric alternatives.

About Providence

Built in 1903, Providence is Canada’s oldest operational commercial passenger marine vessel. A treasured part of the country’s maritime history, the tall ship plays an innovative role in supporting small businesses and artisans in the Southern Gulf Islands of British Columbia.

About Transport Canada

Transport Canada is committed to fostering innovation in the transportation sector while advancing sustainability and reducing environmental impact. Through strategic partnerships and investments, Transport Canada supports projects that contribute to a cleaner, more efficient transportation network.