As we truly enter winter and the month of December, it is important to be cognizant of changing driving conditions, and driving in the snow. Weather forecasters predict a harsh winter season in B.C., so now’s the time to start thinking and planning ahead for the snowy season that may soon be upon us.

A recent ICBC survey noted that automobile crashes increased 10 per cent last winter compared to year previous, but even more concerning is the statistic highlighting that less than half of drivers surveyed had vehicles equipped with winter tires.

A quick reminder for British Columbians – winter tire and chain rules are in effect on most of B.C.’s highways run from October 1 to March 31. Given the unpredictability of the weather, it’s a good idea for Lower Mainland drivers to purchase some good snow tires too.

The ICBC survey also revealed that Lower Mainland drivers, in particular, are significantly more nervous about driving in both snowy and icy conditions. That’s not surprising, given that almost half of those surveyed (47 per cent) witnessed a crash during the winter last year.

Driving in snowy or icy conditions requires more than just equipping your vehicle with snow tires, although snow tires are the most important aspect of driving in those conditions.

Driving in the snow is a simple science – it’s all about friction and traction. Snow tires have a deeper tread to cut through the slush and snow, and snow tires are constructed from softer rubber to help with traction. Lower temperatures in general affects the rubber in summer and all-season tires in a way that lowers traction. The rubber used for snow tires, on the other hand, stay soft and flexible in freezing temperatures in order to grip what’s underneath them. All season tires have reduced traction and stopping power below seven degrees Celsius, and do not offer reliable braking or cornering on ice or cold weather conditions. Compared to M+S designated tires, winter tires offer superior braking and cornering performance on wet and rough ice, soft and hard-packed snow, along with slush. It’s worth the investment for winter tires!

Any combination of snowy, slushy or slick roads and reduced visibility means that drivers need to do more prep work and adjust their driving. Winter driving requires a lot more concentration and care as well. Use slow motions, refrain from braking quickly, and use a very soft foot on the accelerator pedal. Simply driving at a slower speed and exercising caution is one of the smartest things you can do. If you’re driving a new car with electronic traction and stability control, keep them turned on in the winter.
Store snow shovels and kitty litter in your trunk in case you need to dig yourself (or your neighbour) out. Flares, flashlights, and a snow scraper are also useful items to have on-hand. Check your antifreeze levels and consider investing in heavy-duty snow wipers to help with visibility.

Drivers who don’t slow down or adjust for conditions are always a top concern for others sharing the road. Both stopping and turning are actions that take a lot longer, so keep a longer follow distance and remember to slow down. Take time to plan your trip ahead – DriveBC is a great resource for the latest road conditions and weather forecasts.

Also remember to check your battery – there is nothing worse than trying to start your car’s engine and hearing your engine struggle to start.

In future years, emerging technologies may prove to be a big safety advantage. Last August, a new high-friction road surface treatment was applied to 14 intersections in Metro Vancouver and Vancouver Island to give drivers better control and help keep them from skidding in crash-prone locations. The specialized aggregate and resin treatment coarsens the road surface to boost skid-resistance, decrease braking distances in order to reduce rear-end collisions in intersections – in wet or slippery conditions.

For the latest information on car careers in BC’s automotive industry, visit: https://carsandjobs.com/.

The New Car Dealers has provided more than $500,000 in grants and scholarships to help fund the learning and growth of automotive students since 2005.

Blair Qualey is President and CEO of the New Car Dealers Association of BC. You can email him at [email protected].

The holiday season is now upon us and that means family get-togethers, office parties, and nights out with friends are in full swing for many of us. For some, this may involve celebrations that involve drinking and cannabis – and the priority that should now be placed on planning ahead and ensuring a safe ride home, so that you don’t get behind the wheel.

According to ICBC, 68 people die each year in crashes involving impaired driving – many of those during the winter season. It is important to note that the word ‘impaired’ does not just apply to the use of alcohol. In fact, according to the Government of Canada, the percentage of Canadian drivers killed in vehicle crashes who tested positive for drugs (40%) now outweighs those that are under the influence of alcohol (33%).

Another thing to consider is that BC has the toughest laws in the country when it comes to impaired driving – so, you not only put you and other drivers and pedestrians at risk, but could potentially ruin your own life. Some of the penalties for impaired driving include:

• Driving suspensions from 24 hours to 90 days
• Vehicle impoundment
• Fines, from $600 and up to $4,060
• Jail time
• Mandatory rehabilitation
• Installation of ignition interlock in your vehicle

You may also have to pay a Driver Risk Premium, on top of your insurance. If you crash while driving impaired, you’re likely in breach of your insurance policy. That means you could be personally responsible for 100 per cent of the costs if you damage someone else’s property or injure them.

BC has many options for you to choose to ensure you get home safe – particularly during the busy holiday season. There are designated driver services available such as Operation Red Nose, BCAA’s Safe-Ride-Home Service, and Sober Drivers. There are also options such as Kater, taxis, and public transit. You can also consider having a designated driver, so you have a guaranteed safe ride home.

If you’re still not convinced that common sense should apply, December is a time where CounterAttack is in full swing. CounterAttack is a police-run roadblock tactic that catches drug and alcohol impaired drivers.

And a final caution to all drivers. Don’t allow yourself to be distracted. Put down your cellphone or any other device that may take your attention away from the road. When you are behind the wheel, focus on the road. There is no excuse to pick up your phone or to drive under the influence. Allow everyone to enjoy the holiday season – because the alternative is simply not worth it.

For the latest information on car careers in BC’s automotive industry, visit: https://carsandjobs.com/.

NCDA of BC has provided more than $500,000 in grants and scholarships to help fund the learning and growth of automotive students since 2005. For the month of October, there were 15,930 new vehicle sales in BC.

Blair Qualey is President and CEO of the New Car Dealers Association of BC. You can email him at [email protected]

With the Christmas holiday season fast approaching, you may be pondering what to get that special auto enthusiast. The good news is, there are many gift options available to suit any budget and personality.

Let’s start with items for those who have specific interests. If that special someone is a music lover, perhaps a new sound system is the way to go? Those who are more active might appreciate a bike or ski rack for the car, or even a carrier top for other recreational gear. There are several interesting gift ideas that could help dress up a vehicle, ranging from custom fitted seat covers to custom floor mats. Likewise, drivers who like vehicle or sports paraphernalia might enjoy a license plate frame, a dashboard ornament, or a key chain featuring one of their favorite retail or sports team. Or even a die cast toy car to match their ride.

On the practical side, you can’t go wrong with a car care kit, which can typically be found at your local hardware store – or you can put together a gift basket yourself. Packages can contain car wash fluid, glass cleaner, wax, polish, sealant, detailer spray, interior cleaner, tire shine and everything in between.
For car lovers who like to baby their vehicles, many dealerships offer auto “spa packages” for interior and exterior detailing services. All car lovers look forward to cruising in a shiny car in the Spring months, so check the websites of your local dealerships for special promotions or gift cards.
Gift cards can pay for a maintenance or detailing appointment at the person’s favourite new car dealer or some sessions at the neighbourhood car wash. They’re also a smart gift for those who are tricky to please, as the person can pick out their own vehicle accessories or add-ons at their favourite auto parts store or website.
Another practical option is a dash cam which can provide peace of mind if you’re in an accident. For people who travel long distances, an emergency kit is always a good option. These include everything from jumper cables and a flashlight, to flares, candles, matches and blanket – should a driver be unlucky enough to get stranded in their vehicle. You hope they will never need to use them, but these items could come in handy someday.
Finally, the perfect topper for your car-themed gift basket or stocking stuffer may be tickets to the 2020 Vancouver International Auto Show, March 25-29 at the Vancouver Convention Centre (West). The 100th anniversary event will be marked by many special features in honour of the event’s storied history. For those residing outside of the Lower Mainland, each year the Vancouver International Auto Show partners with hotels around the Convention Centre to make it easier for you to attend the Show and visit Vancouver’s beautiful downtown area. Early Bird tickets are on sale now at VancouverInternationalAutoShow.com
One final note. As we head into the holiday season, please remember to drive responsibly – so if you’re cerebrating with friends and family, please don’t drive under the influence.

For the latest information on car careers in BC’s automotive industry, visit: https://carsandjobs.com/

For the month of September, there were 17,262 new vehicle sales in BC.
NCDA of BC has provide more than $500,000 in grants and scholarships to help fund the learning and growth of automotive students since 2005.

Blair Qualey is President and CEO of the New Car Dealers Association of BC. You can email him at [email protected]

As we begin to enter the holiday season, many automobile owners will increasingly find themselves frequenting parking lots as they canvas local retailers for that perfect gift for a loved one.

However, this is also a time of year when the potential thief has eyes on motorists who leave parcels and packages in plain sight, turning themselves into easy targets.

A campaign launched last year by the Integrated Municipal Provincial Auto Crime Team (IMPACT), the Province of British Columbia, and ICBC, encourages drivers to protect themselves with the slogan, “Check Your Doors Before They Do”. This campaign is just as true today and a good reminder for the holiday season.

According to ICBC, there was a 4.2 percent increase in auto theft across British Columbia with 58,000 vehicles being broken into in 2018.

Theft of items is a mostly preventable crime and there are some of the steps you can take to stop thieves from breaking into your car. Though some may be obvious, it is worth keeping in mind. Here are some of ICBC’s top tips to prevent auto break-ins:

• Keep valuables, gifts and parcels out of sight in the trunk and don’t leave them in the vehicle for long periods of time. Even items such as loose change and pop cans can tempt thieves.
• While shopping, try not to unload gifts in your vehicle and then leave it unattended in the same parking spot.
• Park in well-lit areas and use parking lots frequented by others.
• Always lock your doors and close your windows, even if you’re away from your vehicle for just a minute. Remove any garage door openers from your vehicle.
• Keep your keys secure at all times. Don’t leave your keys unguarded — even at a restaurant or the gym. Treat your keys like cash.

While criminals often target vehicles for smartphones, personal electronics, sunglasses, and cash, they are especially targeting vehicles that leave any holiday items in sight. They also may be looking for items such as garage door openers and any personal items/documents that may make you a target for theft further down the road.

The best way to combat these threats is to always make sure to remove any valuables or personal items in your vehicles and never leave anything in plain sight that may make your vehicle an easy target. In situations where you may be forced to park your vehicle in a less than ideal location, take the garage remote with you and make a copy of your vehicle registration and black out your home address in the copy you keep in your glove compartment. Keep the original with your address in a safe place at home. Google Maps has also added a handy ‘remember my parking location’ feature.

ICBC recommends the 9 pm routine, which encourages vehicle owners to check on their vehicle each night at 9 pm to ensure it is safe and secure and all measures have been made to avoid being an auto crime victim.

To prevent heartbreak this holiday season – and in the future – it’s important to be diligent and remember these easy steps, so you aren’t an easy target.

For the latest information on car careers in BC’s automotive industry, visit: https://carsandjobs.com/

For the month of September, there were 17,262 new vehicle sales in BC.
NCDA of BC has provided more than $500,000 in grants and scholarships to help fund the learning and growth of automotive students since 2005.

Blair Qualey is President and CEO of the New Car Dealers Association of BC. You can email him at [email protected]

British Columbians experience diverse climates over the winter months. Though for many this season, the Farmer’s Almanac has predicted a colder yet sunny and drier forecast. Regardless of this prediction, and your environment, car owners can’t forget to take proper care for their precious vehicles. It’s important to take the time and attention that goes into ensuring safe storage, to avoid disappointment in the spring.

There are several rules when it comes to storing your car so as to spare your vehicle the adverse affects of winter. Rule number one is to disconnect the battery and seal the gas tank to avoid potentially catastrophic events. Discard any rags that have been in contact with flammable or combustible liquids or, alternatively, you could store them safely in a metal can with a tight-fitting lid. Try to keep your storage area clean and as clutter-free as possible – clutter can help fires spread and hamper firefighting efforts. These are completely avoidable disasters if the correct precautions are taken.

Rule number two: do a quick visual inspection before retiring any vehicle for next year’s cruising season. Check for fuel line leaks – old fuel and transmission fluid lines can deteriorate with time. Also do a sweep for any frayed wiring that could come with aging electrical systems.

Thirdly, before storage, clean your car inside and out and remember to polish – don’t put a car cover over a dirty car. Make sure to also apply a quick coat of wax, so it’s ready to go when you need it again. After months of trekking in outside dirt, now is the time to give the carpets a deep clean. But if you plan on using a steam-cleaner, do this far in advance to avoid any moisture buildup while in storage. Silica gel packs placed inside the car during storage can also absorb excess moisture that can accumulate during the wet season. Though there is no way to avoid mice and other small critters, it is important to take precautions, and you may want to consider mousetraps around your car, along with sound repellant devices.

The next step is to tend to your vehicle’s fluids. Gasoline can form deposits if it’s stored for long periods of time, so adding a fuel stabilizer to your nearly full gas tank is very important. Schedule an oil change as well to get rid of any corrosive materials.
It’s important to remember to top off on coolant, especially if you live in an area that gets a lot of snow or experiences extremely low temperatures in the winter.

For older vehicles without engine computers, remove the battery and store it. Newer models with computers can experience performance problems if the battery is disconnected for too long, so hook the battery up to a smart charger when in storage instead.

Whether you’re putting a valuable vintage car to bed or storing away a specialty vehicle you don’t want to drive during the winter months, it’s important to protect your car from the potentially nasty winter road conditions. And if you’re not storing your vehicle during the winter, ensure it’s regularly cleaned and rinsed off with fresh water to remove any salt and road dirt buildup.

The last rule is insurance. Though your car will not need to be insured for the road, you never know what can happen in storage. Make sure you have the proper storage insurance to protect you against any unexpected occurrences.

For the latest information on car careers in BC’s automotive industry, visit: https://carsandjobs.com/

Blair Qualey is President and CEO of the New Car Dealers Association of BC. You can email him at [email protected].

It’s no secret that auto manufacturers are investing more than ever before in new and developing technologies to produce greener vehicles along with an increasing number of safety features.

But to what extent does the driving public have confidence in these developing technologies?

A new study by J.D. Power, in partnership with Survey Monkey, would suggest it’s going to take time for drivers to establish a comfort level. The 2019 Q3 Mobility Confidence Index Study, revealed a Mobility Confidence Index is 36 (on a 100-point scale) for self-driving vehicles and 55 for battery-electric vehicles. The index is categorized into three categories: low (0-40), neutral (41-60) and positive (61-100). More than 5,000 individuals were surveyed in each category to yield these results.

The survey aims to gain more understanding on the public’s opinion on EV and self-driving cars. The results of the most recent study were the same as they were three months ago – and similar studies will be conducted on a quarterly basis.

With respect to self-driving vehicles, consumers have a low level of confidence and comfort, particularly when it comes to riding in a self-driving vehicle and self-driving public transit. Overall, men are more comfortable with self-driving technology than women, with more than two-thirds of consumers saying they have little to no knowledge about the technology. J.D. Power suggests findings can be used to a vehicle manufacturer company’s advantage, by identifying areas where consumers need to be better educated, and course-corrected on the path to eventual production.

That being said, there are significant challenges facing auto-manufacturers. Perfecting the technology of self-driving cars is proving much more challenging than once originally thought and there are two disadvantages to consumers that are unable to be solved – job displacement and computer error. There is the potential for a massive loss of jobs and often we see tech failures and errors with both electrical and computer technologies. That being said, technology in the automotive industry is improving all the time and we will continue to make rapid advancements.

When it comes to battery-electric vehicles, the response is more neutral. The top challenges remain the cost and reliability associated with purchasing and owning an EV. However, 77% of respondents say that tax credits or subsidies for using battery-electric vehicles would influence purchase decisions. In terms of the environmental impacts, nearly 65% say battery-electric vehicles are better and half of the respondents believe the cost of charging versus gas would be advantageous. Not surprisingly, more than half of respondents registered concerns about the availability of charging stations and driving range. Good news for drivers in B.C.! There are now more than 1,000 charging stations across the province and BC Hydro currently operates 60 fast chargers along B.C.’s major highways.

Just as the development of new technologies is a work in progress, so too is gaining the trust and confidence of consumers. Though J.D. Powers does not release the full study, you can check out their results at jdpower.com.

For the latest information on car careers in BC’s automotive industry, visit here.

Blair Qualey is President and CEO of the New Car Dealers Association of BC. You can email him at [email protected]

In many parts of British Columbia, the change in season will soon be upon on us, and depending on where you live, that may involve heavy rain, or snow and ice – and months of winter driving conditions. As a result, now is the best time to get your vehicle ship shape for the long winter months to come, by getting it inspected and having any preventative maintenance performed.

It’s easy to procrastinate until the first snowfall, but don’t keep putting it off. The cold weather can make existing problems worse and cost you more money down the road. So whether you are savvy enough to do the car maintenance yourself on an older vehicle or book an appointment at a new car dealership, there are several areas you should pay attention to:

Battery: Dropping temperatures and increased accessory use (defrosters, heat, windshield wipers) can put a strain on your battery. Check for any mineral or other deposit build-up around the terminals, which can be cleaned away with a brush.

Heat System: Test your heat system, your front and rear window defrost because these  don’t get a lot of use during the summer months.

Check the Oil: A general rule of thumb is that your oil should be changed every 3,000 miles – but your auto service provider can tell you which works best for your vehicle’s make, model and mileage.

Fluids and Belts: Check your antifreeze/coolant, wiper fluid, power steering fluid and transmission fluid. Also have an auto technician check all belts and the engine’s timing.

Tires: if you are driving at higher elevations, make sure your vehicle is equipped with winter tires – and have your tires checked for wear patterns as well as tread. Worn tires are unsafe to drive on, especially during the winter months.

Filters.  A dirty air filter can decrease fuel economy and performance. Replacing a cabin air filter, while not directly impacting your vehicle’s performance, can help create a more comfortable environment for your passengers.

Lights and Visuals: Makes sure all your lights are working, including turn signals front and back, headlamps and taillights, brake and back up lights and high beams.

Wipers: Fall is an excellent time to change your wipers to ensure you are able clear heavy rain, show or slush from your windshield

Undercoating is an important consideration to protect critical components from rust and corrosion. This is especially important for electric vehicles, to protect electrical wiring and battery pack, among other components. There are also other important reminders, including the repair of any small crack or chip in your windshield before it gets any worse. Keep a set of gloves, a snow bush and ice scraper in your call at all times.  And, review your emergency roadside kit to ensure its well-stocked with necessities should you ever run into problems while on the road.

By preparing your car for the winter months, you can be confident that your vehicle is ready for the icy and slippery driving conditions and cold temperatures that are typically associated with the season.

Just one final note: trick or treaters will be out in force next week so please use extreme caution when driving – and make Halloween an enjoyable, safe night for all.

For the latest information on car careers in BC’s automotive industry, visit: https://carsandjobs.com/

Blair Qualey is President and CEO of the New Car Dealers Association of BC. You can email him at [email protected]

The first hint of Fall is now upon us and that will soon translate into frost and snow for many parts of the province – and with it, some of the most challenging driving conditions of the year. Winter weather is Mother Nature’s ultimate road test. Make sure you’re prepared!
Above all else, the onus is on us, as drivers, to be prepared for a variety of driving conditions, especially if embarking on routes at higher elevations, by exercising caution, driving at a reasonable speed based on road and weather conditions and ensuring your vehicle is equipped with appropriate tires.
A 2017 survey conducted by ICBC indicated serious crashes increased by 10 per cent the year previous, due in large part to drivers simply going too fast for the road conditions. In the North Central region of the province, accidents in which people are injured or killed more than double each year, as the weather worsens throughout the fall.
It’s particularly important to be cautious and take extra time if you are driving a route that involves mountain passes – because those can be especially unpredictable during the Fall and Winter months. You may start a trip in the sunshine, but later face stretches of slush, ice, snow or compact snow. Before embarking on a trip, motorists should visit http://www.drivebc.ca to access the latest road conditions and view the road cameras covering major highway routes.
Having the proper tires cannot be emphasized enough. Equip your vehicle with proper snow tires (snowflake symbol) or winter/all season tires (M&S symbol). Switching out of your summer tires for something more weather-appropriate is not only logical and safe, but it’s mandatory in some parts of the province. From October 1st through March 31st, winter tire rules take effect and drivers are required to use winter tires on most BC highways.
Driving in the snow is a simple science – it’s all about friction and traction. Snow tires have a deeper tread to cut through the slush and snow, and are constructed from softer rubber to help with traction (especially below 7C). All season tires have reduced traction and stopping power below seven degrees Celsius, and do not offer reliable braking or cornering on ice or cold weather conditions. Compared to M+S tires, snow tires offer superior braking and cornering performance on wet and rough ice, soft and hard-packed snow, along with slush. It’s worth the investment for snow tires!
In general, winter driving requires a lot more concentration and care as well – use slow motions, refrain from braking quickly, and use a very soft foot on the accelerator pedal. Driving slower is one of the smartest things you can do. And in rainy or snow weather with lower visibility, use your headlights to be seen by both the vehicles in front and behind of you.
Drivers who don’t slow down or adjust for conditions are always a top concern for others who are sharing the road. Both stopping and turning are actions that take can lot longer, so keep a longer following distance and remember to slow down. If you’re driving a new car with electronic traction and stability control features, ensure they are all turned on in the winter or set to snow mode.
An important reminder for every driver is having an emergency roadside kit which includes flares, a flashlight and a variety of tools – along with water and additional warm clothing and footwear that you may be thankful to have on hand in the event of an unfortunate circumstance.
If you’re in the market for winter car kit essentials, visit your local new car dealer – they’ll make sure you have what you need to shift into winter safely, before hitting the roads.

For the latest information on car careers in BC’s automotive industry, visit: https://carsandjobs.com/

Blair Qualey is President and CEO of the New Car Dealers Association of BC. You can email him at [email protected]

Six months from now, western Canada’s best attended trade and consumer event, the Vancouver International Auto Show, will mark its 100th anniversary and organizers of this annual event plan on marking the occasion in fine style.

The Vancouver Auto Show has always been a showcase for new technology while providing an ode to the past and this year’s celebratory event (March 25-29, 2020) will certainly put a spotlight on British Columbia’s rich automobile history, while also showcasing what’s next for the industry.

Planning for the 100th edition of the Auto Show started more than a year ago and we are excited at the prospect of showcasing many special vehicles, activations and displays.

One of the highlights will be a special procession of vehicles, representing each decade of the Show’s existence, that will wind its way through the streets of Vancouver, ending at the Vancouver Convention Centre West, to officially open the show. It is with great pleasure that the Honourary 100th Auto Show Chair and Grand Marshall of the procession will be none other than Jimmy Pattison, one of the most impactful contributors to the auto sector in Canada.

Other highlights will include a special invitational Concours style showcase that will include more than fifty special vehicles, some never previously displayed, as well as a Look To The Future display, showcasing emerging and advanced technology options for consumers.

Throughout the Province, people are passionate about automobiles. There are those who embrace the nostalgia that comes with seeing the cars or trucks of their youth or those that have been passed down through generations. Likewise, there are many visitors who come to check out the hottest supercars on display, while the Auto Show also remains the perfect venue for consumers to see all of the newest model vehicles and concept cars under one roof.

An increasingly popular feature each year is the expanded electric vehicle ride and drive event, presented by CleanBC – Go Electric, and seeing a variety of fuel powered vehicles represented on the show floor – from electric, hybrid, hydrogen-fuel cell, to gas, diesel and propane powered vehicles.

While the car shopping consumer does much of their research at home, an auto show is an important part of the shopping experience because it allows people to see things the Internet can’t show – such as….touching, feeling vehicles in person – kicking tires, sitting in the vehicle and linking your smartphone. It also gives consumers a better idea if the vehicle meets their needs in a non-pressure manner.

The 2020 Vancouver International Auto Show will be very special as we mark 100 years of automotive this special event and look at the exciting future ahead. We hope you will circle your calendar and plan to join us on March 25-29 at Vancouver Convention Centre (West) for what will me a memorable and historic occasion.

For more detailed information about the Vancouver Auto Show, March and to purchase tickets, visit: www.VancouverInternationalAutoShow.com

For the latest information on car careers in BC’s automotive industry, visit: https://carsandjobs.com/

Blair Qualey is President and CEO of the New Car Dealers Association of BC. You can email him at [email protected]

Last week, the Union of BC Municipalities (UBCM) hosted elected officials from all three levels of government at their annual convention in Vancouver.
The annual event is one that the New Car Dealers Association (NCDA) looks forward to, as it provides an opportunity to engage politicians of all political stripes about our Association, the strength of our members’ contribution to the local and provincial economy, some of the challenges we face, and the positive results of our collective partnerships.
We believe New Car Dealers bring an important perspective to the discussion because we represent more than 390 small businesses in 55 communities across the province. Our sector generates about $16 Billion in economic activity and employs more than 30,000 people around the province.
Much of the discussion with delegates during the five-day event, related to the state of the auto sector and the increasing adoption of electric vehicles. To drive home that point (no pun intended), the NCDA hosted a clean energy vehicle test drive event to demonstrate the range of vehicles now in the marketplace. From full battery EVs like the Chevrolet Bolt and Tesla Model 3 to Kia Niro and plug-in hybrid Mitsubishi Outlander, delegates from across the province expressed interest and in many cases, got behind the wheel of some of these models for a test drive.
The CEVforBC™ Program has played an important role in accelerating the transition to clean energy vehicles in BC, and in doing so, providing both environment and economic benefits. It should come as no surprise that our province is once again on pace to break all previous sales records relating to clean energy vehicles for 2019.
To help encourage greater EV adoption, the province announced last week that it will be making more than $4 Million available in a new CleanBC rebate. Through the program, homeowners can access a $350 rebate to install a level-2 charging station in a single family home, while a $2,000 rebate is available for the installation for a level-2 charging station designed for multiple users in condominiums. An additional $350 rebate will be available for a limited time only for BC Hydro customers with a level-2 charging station installed.
However, we all recognize there are some challenges that remain at the local and provincial level that are impacting even greater EV transition. Most notable is access to conveniently located fast charging stations, both within our communities and along major highway routes, so drivers need not encounter range anxiety. At this time, more than 1,000 charging stations have been established in the province, with more committed. Today, there are also more than 55 fast charging stations across BC. Progress is being made, but suffice to say, it’s a process that must continue.
Another level of discussion with delegates involved the issue of how best to address the workforce needs of the future. While the NCDA works to formulate a strategy to entice more young people into the sector, we are also encouraging government to continue its investments in job and apprenticeship training around the province.
We enjoy what we believe is a very thoughtful and productive partnership with all levels of government. It’s one that positively impacts our members, consumers and communities – and through which we all mutually benefit.
For the latest information on car careers in BC’s automotive industry, visit: https://carsandjobs.com/

Blair Qualey is President and CEO of the New Car Dealers Association of BC. You can email him at [email protected].

Several months ago, I prepared a Post Media column on the issue of future workforce demands facing the automotive sector and how we collectively need to expand the diversity in our workforce, especially in attracting more women to our industry.

Desrosiers Automotive Consultants recently released a report that highlights the extent of the challenge as it relates to service technicians. The report produced some rather troubling findings but in doing so, identifies some very real opportunities for change.

It’s no secret that the automotive industry has long been a male-dominated domain. However, the report which references data from Statistics Canada, shows that in 2016, there were approximately 156,000 automotive technicians – and only 2.1 per cent of those were female. The study also revealed the median income for men under this classification was $46,000 compared to $33,000 for women, a concerning income disparity.

It’s important to note that these are national numbers and are reflective of one aspect of the automotive sector – but they are telling, and speak to the need for our industry to address issues such as wage parity, and take some concrete steps to attract more women into the workforce.

The study also showed almost one-third (31.5 per cent) of automotive service technicians are 50-plus years of age, underlining a tide of retirements that will be hitting the industry over the next decade. If you think this isn’t an issue, consider that an increasing requirement in this field is very skilled technicians who can tend to the complex and highly sophisticated maintenance and repairs associated with new vehicles, especially battery electric, plug-in hybrid and fuel cell electric (hydrogen) vehicles.

Overall, it is anticipated the auto-industry in BC will need over 20,000 new hires to fill projected job openings, whether those be in management, sales or are technical in nature – over the next ten years.

The BC New Car Dealers Association is developing a strategy to better attract more young people to the profession, improve education and training opportunities, and ultimately lay the groundwork for industry, dealers, government and training institutions to forge a path forward in a collaborative manner.

This week, our association attended the UBCM Convention to engage elected officials and share information related to career opportunities in the automotive sector. This is in keeping with utilizing every opportunity we have to encourage governments to increase investments in skilled trades and other training at institutions around the province to help ensure those 20,000 job opportunities can be filled in the next decade.

On a national level, the Canadian Auto Dealer Association is promoting industry opportunities through an interactive site: https://carsandjobs.com/ that provides information on job opportunities in communities across the country. The New Car Dealers Association of BC complements these efforts by creating awareness of career pathways that are available to young people along with highlighting education grants available for those wishing to pursue careers in the automotive industry. In fact, BC’s New Car Dealers’ Foundation has provided more than $500,000 in scholarships and grants since 2006!

We hope that a strategy will serve as a positive catalyst for change, creating greater certainty and flexibility for dealerships and the industry, while also forging new, meaningful and equal career opportunities for females who historically have not been part of the equation.

For the latest information on car careers in BC’s automotive industry, visit: https://carsandjobs.com/

Blair Qualey is President and CEO of the New Car Dealers Association of BC. You can email him at [email protected].

We all know that texting and driving is dangerous, and to their credit, most drivers have changed their habits since 2010, when the use of hand-held personal electronic devices were banned for those driving a vehicle.

Unfortunately, some continue to risk their lives and those of other drivers and passengers around them by being distracted when behind the wheel.

According to ICBC, on average, 77 people die every year in crashes in which distracted driving is a contributing factor – and distracted driving is responsible for more than one-quarter of all car crash fatalities in BC.

Resisting the temptation of e-mails, texts, calls, or the latest Instagram message from a friend may seem difficult – but consider how a split second of momentary distraction could alter your life forever, that of a passenger or the innocent occupants of another vehicle.

ICBC has a host of tips for safe cellphone use, which include the following:

• No call, text or email is so important it’s worth risking your life or the lives of others. Let calls go to voicemail and ignore your text messages while driving.
• Turn it off and put it out of sight or turn on airplane mode to avoid the temptation to check your phone.
• Assign a designated texter. Ask your passengers to make or receive calls and texts for you. 
• Pull over to make or receive a call when it’s safe to do so. For longer journeys, look for signs at highway rest areas, some of which now provide free Wi-Fi.
• Use the ‘Do Not Disturb While Driving’ feature on iOS devices, ‘In-Traffic Reply’ on Samsung phones, or download a similar app to help you avoid using your phone while driving.

 And for those who may not be acquainted with the rules of the road:

• Don’t use your cellphone at a red light. The law applies whenever you’re in control of the vehicle, whether stopped at a red light or in bumper-to-bumper traffic.
• Keep your hands off. Hands-free means a Bluetooth, wired headset or speakerphone that can be operated with one touch or voice commands. Make sure to secure the cellphone to the vehicle or attach it on your body before driving.
• If you have a Learner’s (L) or Novice (N) licence, you aren’t allowed to use any electronic device behind the wheel, for any purpose, even in hands-free mode.
• Make sure you understand the law on how to use electronic devices while driving (www.RoadSafetyBC.ca)

 Most drivers appear to be getting the message about distracted driving, but the issue of distracted pedestrians is another matter altogether. As motorists, we have all seen them – the person texting or talking on their phone, approaching an intersection or a curb, totally oblivious to some of the obvious dangers surrounding them.

To all pedestrians, please, watch for drivers turning left or right through a crosswalk, and make eye contact with drivers. If wearing ear buds, remove at least one when preparing to cross the road to ensure you hear any approaching horns or emergency vehicles approaching.

We all share the road so let’s work together to keep it as safe as possible.

For the latest information on car careers in BC’s automotive industry, visit: https://carsandjobs.com/

Blair Qualey is President and CEO of the New Car Dealers Association of BC. You can email him at [email protected].