Automotive

QSA's Week in Automotive (#10, 2025)

US tariffs on Canadian steel; Canadian investment in Nova Scotia; vehicle sales data update.

Good morning! Welcome back to Queen Street Analytics' weekly digest of regulatory developments, legislative discussions, political announcements and other government-related news for car manufacturers, parts suppliers, car dealers, and others in the automotive industry.

Every Monday, we break down the most important updates in this space in under five minutes.

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Start Date: 2025-03-09
End Date: 2025-03-15

Top Headlines

Main Stories

Canada Responds to U.S. Tariffs on Steel and Aluminum

On March 12, 2025, Minister Mary Ng expressed Canada's disappointment over the U.S. reimposing a 25% tariff on Canadian steel and aluminum. These tariffs violate the CUSMA and WTO agreements. Canada has initiated formal consultations and may pursue dispute resolution under WTO and CUSMA if necessary. The tariffs impact sectors like automotive, aerospace, and defense by increasing costs for U.S. manufacturers.

Sources: Announcements: www.canada.ca

Minister Champagne Prioritizes Canadian Steel and Aluminum Projects

Following the U.S. tariffs, Minister François-Philippe Champagne announced that Industry Canada will prioritize funding for projects using Canadian steel and aluminum. He emphasized these materials' importance to North America's infrastructure and job market, including the automotive sector. This move aims to support Canadian industries and maintain economic ties.

Sources: Announcements: www.canada.ca

Investment Boost for Business Growth in Dartmouth

The Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency announced a pending investment of $7,031,975 in 11 organizations in Dartmouth. EfficiencyOne, receiving $4,875,000, will use the funds for energy audits in manufacturing facilities. This initiative aims to enhance energy efficiency and lower operational costs for participating companies, benefitting sectors including manufacturing and clean technology.

Sources: Announcements: www.canada.ca

Important Updates

Secondary Stories

New Motor Vehicle Sales Data Released

New motor vehicle sales data for January 2025 includes a breakdown by zero-emission vehicle fuel type, providing insights into the automotive market's shift towards sustainable options.

Sources: Open Government Data Set: www.statcan.gc.ca

Motor Vehicle Registrations Increase

In 2024, Canada saw an 8% increase in new motor vehicle registrations, with Ontario leading at 699,289 registrations, followed by Quebec and British Columbia.

Sources: Open Government Data Set: www.statcan.gc.ca

Manufacturing Sales Rise in January

Statistics Canada reported a 1.7% increase in manufacturing sales in January, driven by higher sales in motor vehicles and petroleum products.

Sources: Open Government Data Set: www.statcan.gc.ca

Provincial Announcements

Quebec Supports Innovation in Asbestos Mining Residues

Quebec announced $600,000 funding for Exterra Solutions Carbone to optimize extraction processes for nickel and cobalt from asbestos mining residues, aiming for sustainable development.

Sources: Provincial Announcement: www.quebec.ca

Saskatchewan Adjusts Fees for 2025-26

Saskatchewan announced changes to fees, including road-use charges on electric vehicles and construction permits for hazardous substances, effective in the 2025-26 fiscal year.

Sources: Provincial Announcement: www.saskatchewan.ca

MP Ryan Williams Discusses Emissions and Energy Policies

MP Ryan Williams tweeted about emissions trends, citing the carbon tax's impact on agriculture and manufacturing, and criticized federal policies affecting the energy sector.

Sources: Social Media: x.com

MP Arpan Khanna Visits Legend Fleet Solutions

MP Arpan Khanna highlighted his visit to Legend Fleet Solutions, acknowledging their role in Canada's auto sector and expressing support for the Conservative 'Canada First' plan.