Event summary produced by The Globe and Mail Events team. The Globe’s editorial department was not involved.
2025 is set to bring significant regulatory and supply chain challenges for the Canadian automotive industry. From the looming threat of U.S. tariffs to the uncertain future of e-vehicle incentive programs, various factors are poised to influence the cost and availability of vehicles for consumers. Understanding these potential changes is crucial for regulators and manufacturers, whose policies affect millions of Canadians.
On Tuesday, February 11th, The Globe and Mail hosted its fourth annual Future of Automotive Summit which offered an in-depth exploration of what lies ahead for Canada’s automotive market. The event gathered industry experts, insiders, and journalists to discuss the latest trends and innovations, shaping the future of the automotive sector.
Missed the live event or would like to view it again? Scroll down to the video below.
Jordan Chittley, editor of Globe Drive at The Globe and Mail co-moderated the event, together with Petrina Gentile, automotive journalist and contributor to The Globe and Mail.
Andrew Gordon, General Counsel & Corporate Secretary at Toyota Canada, kicked off the program with his opening remarks. This was followed by an insightful panel discussion on potential tariffs, future trade deals, and their impact on the electric vehicle market. Next, we delved into new powertrain innovations and the future of battery technologies, which promise to offer more affordable, efficient, and cleaner alternatives for consumers. After a brief intermission, we explored the current state of vehicle inventories and supply chains, examining how these factors are influencing purchasing behaviours at car dealerships. Finally, we wrapped up with a discussion on emerging trends and patterns that may shape the industry in the coming months, and their potential impact on Canada.
Speakers:
- Jason Clifton, Partner, Advisory Services, EY Canada
- Diego Marroquin Bitar, Bersin-Foster North America Scholar, Woodrow Wilson Center
- Cara Clairman, Founder and CEO, Plug’n Drive
- Charlotte Argue, Senior Manager, Sustainable Mobility, Geotab
- Baris Akyurek, Vice President Insights & Intelligence, AutoTrader
- Yvette Zhang, Advanced-Mobility Segment Co-Leader & Partner in Automotive and Industrial Practice, AlixPartners
- Mathew Wilson, Senior Vice President, Canadian Manufacturers & Exporters
- Brian Kingston, President & CEO, Canadian Vehicle Manufacturers’ Association
The Globe and Mail presented the event with sponsor support from Toyota Canada.