Canada has been slow on the uptake of electric vehicles (EVs), but new Toronto legislation is seeking to make that history. A new city hall report has laid out a vision for EV usage that will result in 80% uptake by 2040, a plan recognised as being very ambitious among the general populace. For those still using older combustion-engine model vehicles, the ordinances and regulations that this plan will bring around will offer a challenge in terms of getting the most out of their vehicle. Fortunately, technology works both ways, and new car innovations will allow combustion auto drivers to continue to enjoy their vehicle on Toronto streets.
Better batteries
Electric vehicles run on batteries, and innovation in that sector has found its way into combustion engine vehicles. With The Globe and Mail noting the incredible speed of car battery innovation that Canada has experienced over the past few years, upgrading outdated tech within your vehicle is more simple than it has been in the past. A car battery is a great way to start, as it can bring efficiencies in a number of places, not least by lowering the amount of engine power needed to bring charge. The best batteries have a high level of conductivity and improve the efficiency of the car through this.
Regular tune-ups
In the same vein as improving the battery of a car comes the need to go for regular maintenance. Maintenance should be easier than ever; car scanners are cheap, plentiful and good quality, and mechanics have a much more open relationship with information than in the past. Using modern consumer convenience to get a better deal is achievable for everyone on the road. By going through regular maintenance, you can ensure that every part of your car is working to its maximum potential and efficiency. This will save you money on gas and will help you to stay green on the road by minimizing excess emissions.
Retrofitting your vehicles
It is entirely possible to retrofit a combustion engine vehicle. As far back as 2013, tech mag Wired reported that University of Middle Tennessee, USA, had produced kits that could turn a car engine into a hybrid through the simple adaptation of car axles and certain centres within the car engine. According to the students, the technology allows for a battery pack no larger than an aeroplane carry-on bag to provide extra power to the car, meaning that, at low speeds – which are often necessary on inner-city roads in Toronto – your car will not be pumping out emissions into the air of the city and the planet. Designed for “around-town” drivers, according to Wired, such kits may be a viable option for those that love their car but need to change for the times.
Toronto is joining the electric charge, and it will be a case of no vehicle left behind. Those that love their own vehicle will need to adapt, and technology is providing solutions for everyone. Whether that be through minor green-focused changes to the vehicle, or widescale overhauls, there will be options.
