Skip to content

Electric Mobility

Electric Mobility in Calgary: Cleaner, quieter, and more accessible ways to move through our city

Illustration by Jessie Mead

 

As transportation continues to advance, electric vehicles (EVs) are becoming an increasingly popular option for getting around. EVs use electricity as a primary power source, either fully or in combination with a traditional engine, offering a more efficient and lower-emission alternative to conventional vehicles.

Why Electric Mobility Matters?

Incentives and Financial Benefits

Electric vehicle owners can save tens of thousands of dollars over the lifetime of their vehicle through reduced fuel, maintenance, and repair costs, with additional incentives and preferred financing options available through insurers, financial institutions, and government programs. 

Check out Federal Zero-Emissions Vehicle Incentives program!

 

Types of Electric Mobility

  • Electrical vehicles (EVs)

    Electric vehicles are powered fully or partially by electricity, offering a low-emission alternative to traditional gas-powered cars.

Types

  • Battery Electric Vehicle (BEV) - Fully electric, runs entirely on battery and produces zero direct tailpipe emissions.
  • Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle (PHEV) - Hybrid with electric + gas, combines a rechargeable battery with a gas engine to provide flexibility while still enabling low/zero-emissions daily driving.

Charging:

  • Level 1: Residential only (20-amp wall outlet), with about 8km per hour of charge
  • Level 2: Residential and commercial, with 30-90 km per hour of charge
  • Level 3: Public and commercial only, with 96-400km per hour of charge

Where to Find Chargers:

  • Calgary has over 220 public charging stations with more being installed every year. Check out where you can find public chargers near you: PlugShare
  • If you are looking to install an at-home charger, please refer to this guide from ENMAX.

DOWNLOAD INFO SHEET TO LEARN MORE

 

  • Electrical Micromobility (E-bikes & E-scooters)

    Calgary has one of North America’s largest pathway networks, making it easy to ride safely across the city. E-bikes and e-scooters offer flexible, low-cost ways to get around Calgary, with a variety of styles and features designed to suit different needs, abilities, and commuting preferences.

 

Benefits:

  • Accessible for all ages and for riders with different abilities
  • Ideal for Calgary’s hills
  • Range: 50–160 km per charge

Safety Tips:

  • Wear a helmet to reduce the risk of serious injury (required for riders under the age of 18)
  • Follow local rules for riding on bikeways, pathways, and roadways
  • Use certified devices (UL, ULC, or CSA) and follow proper battery charging guidelines
  • Never leave your e-bike or e-scooter charging unattended

 

How to Engage?

Shared Micro-Mobility Program: 

Calgary’s shared micromobility program makes it easy to access e-bikes and e-scooters across the city year-round. Simply download a partner app (Bird Canada, or Neuron), locate a nearby device, and start your ride at an affordable cost. Learn more about how it works and important safety guidelines on the City of Calgary website.

DOWNLOAD INFO SHEET TO LEARN MORE

 

EV Taxi Project

What do taxi drivers in Edmonton and Calgary need to know about EVs?

Green Calgary is working with Matt Grace Sustainability Inc. and Canada Electric Car Management, with a grant from Alberta Ecotrust, on a project to help Taxi drivers learn about electric vehicles and the advantages and drawbacks compared to internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles. 

Here are some of the findings from the project:

  • EVs have fewer moving parts and don't require oil changes, lowering their maintenance cost
  • EVs have reduced fuel costs as recharging batteries is significantly cheaper than a tank of gas at current prices
  • EVs use regenerative braking, resulting in fewer changes of brake pads
  • EVs are good on winter roads due to a lower centre of gravity from their batteries

  • EVs do not require specialized tires and are the least likely type of vehicle to catch fire

     

Contact our team today if you’re a taxi driver seeking additional information or support.