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Buying a used electric car in quebec: a complete guide to the benefits of the roulez vert program

Published on: 2024/12/20

Would you like to take the big leap into electric vehicles while lightening your budget? Buying a used electric car in Quebec is an excellent option! Thanks to the Roulez Vert program, you can benefit from financial support to acquire a used electric vehicle while reducing your ecological footprint.

Find the used electric car that will fulfill all your needs right here:

The Roulez Vert Program : A Québec incentive for electric vehicles

The Quebec government's Roulez Vert program offers an attracti ve financial incentive of up to 7,000 Canadian dollars for the purchase of a new or used electric vehicle, depending on the model.

This incentive is designed to encourage Quebecers to adopt more sustainable modes of transportation and accelerate the energy transition.

Which used vehicles are eligible?

If you want to benefit from the Roulez Vert program, your used electric car must satisfy a number of requirements. In particular, it must have been registered in Quebec after January 1st, 2020 and before April 18, 2023, and have a minimum range. In addition, the vehicle must be in good working order and meet current safety standards.

How to choose a used electric vehicle?

Choosing a used electric vehicle requires careful consideration. Let's take a look at a few points to consider:

  • Range: Evaluate your daily needs in terms of distance to choose a suitable range.
  • Battery condition: Ask for a battery inspection report to assess its remaining capacity. A healthy battery is essential to get the most out of your electric vehicle.
  • Vehicle history: Check the maintenance booklet, number of previous owners and repair history.
  • Warranties: Find out what warranties are offered on the battery and electrical components.

What documents are required?

To obtain the Roulez Vert rebate on the purchase of a used electric vehicle, certain documents are required to complete the application.

You will need to provide valid proof of purchase, such as an invoice or sales contract, attesting that the vehicle meets the program's eligibility criteria.

The vehicle's registration certificate is also required, showing that the vehicle is registered in Quebec and is between one and four years old, in accordance with program requirements.

In some cases, additional documents, such as a copy of the owner's driver's license or proof of residency, may be required to confirm the buyer's eligibility for the incentive program.

Vehicle registration

When buying a used electric vehicle, it's also essential to register the vehicle with the Société de l'assurance automobile du Québec (SAAQ). To do this, you'll need to present several key documents, including the certificate of sale or sales contract that proves the transaction, the mechanical inspection certificate (if required), and proof of valid insurance for the vehicle.

These documents are necessary to ensure that the vehicle meets safety standards and is ready for use on Quebec roads. The SAAQ may also require a piece of identification from the new owner to validate his or her file before finalizing the registration.

When does the Roulez Vert program end?

The Roulez Vert program, which encourages Quebecers to opt for electric cars by offering purchase rebates, is scheduled to end on January 1, 2027.

However, this end will not be sudden: a gradual reduction in rebate amounts is planned over the next few years.

This gradual approach is designed to support the energy transition, while encouraging consumers to switch to electric vehicles within a reasonable timeframe. Purchasers will still benefit from incentives, but these will diminish over the years until the program expires. Interested parties are therefore advised to seize this opportunity before the rebates run out, in order to maximize potential savings.

Upcoming changes to financial assistance amounts

Until December 31st 2024
January 1st 2025
January 1st 2026
January 1st 2027
Used fully electric vehicle
$3 500
$2 000
$1 000
$0
Home electric charger*
$600
$600
$600
$600

*Max rebate is $5000 for workplace chargers or multi-residential buildings.

Source: Budget du Québec, ministère des Finances 2024-2025

The advantages of buying a used electric vehicle

Choosing a used electric car has many advantages:

  • More affordable purchase costs: Used electric vehicles are generally less expensive than their new equivalents, which means substantial savings for you.
  • Lower running costs: Electricity is less expensive than gas and electric vehicles require less maintenance. This reduces your expenses in the long term.
  • Reduced environmental impact: By extending a vehicle's lifespan, you help reduce the production of electronic waste and limit your carbon footprint.
  • Benefit from the same infrastructure: Owners of used electric vehicles have access to the same network of recharging stations as owners of new vehicles, making day-to-day travel easier.

How to benefit from the Roulez Vert program

To benefit from the Roulez Vert program, you need to take the following steps:

  1. Find a vehicle: Consult online ads, dealerships or individuals to find the used electric vehicle that meets your needs.
  2. Check vehicle eligibility: Make sure the vehicle meets the Roulez Vert program's eligibility criteria.
  3. Apply for a rebate: Follow the instructions provided on the Roulez Vert program website to submit your application and obtain the rebate. At Automobile En Direct, we'll be happy to tell you which vehicles meet the criteria - check them out now!

See Roulez Vert vehicles

Cost savings

More affordable purchase price

Used electric cars offer an immediate financial advantage, thanks to a much lower purchase price than new models. By opting for a used electric car, you significantly reduce the amount of your initial investment, while gaining access to the benefits of electric vehicles. With the Roulez Vert program, this saving is reinforced by an additional rebate, allowing you to take a step towards sustainable mobility without compromising your budget.

Lower maintenance costs

In addition to a lower acquisition cost, used electric vehicles also require less maintenance than traditional gas-powered vehicles. Due to their simplified motorization and the absence of components such as belts, oil filters or spark plugs, maintenance costs are lower. This means you can save money in the long term, with lower maintenance costs and greater reliability, making electrics a smart, economical choice for everyday use.

Environmental impact

Extending a vehicle's lifespan

Buying a used electric vehicle is also making an eco-responsible choice. By extending a vehicle's lifespan, you're helping to maximize the resources already used in its manufacture. Rather than encouraging the production of new vehicles, you keep an existing vehicle on the road, which indirectly reduces the demand for raw materials and energy needed to produce a new model. This helps limit the overall environmental impact of the automotive sector.

Helping to reduce electronic waste

Electric vehicles contain a range of electronic components and a battery which, when no longer in use, generate complex waste. By opting for a used electric vehicle, you delay the moment when these components become waste, thus limiting the pressure on waste management and recycling systems. Every used electric vehicle you buy contributes to a more rational use of resources and less electronic waste in landfills.

Other benefits

Take advantage of the same recharging infrastructure as new vehicle owners

Owning a used electric vehicle allows you to take full advantage of the charging infrastructure in place. The growing number of public charging stations in Quebec are accessible to both used and new vehicle owners. This compatibility guarantees an optimal recharging experience and makes it easy to get around, regardless of the vehicle's age or origin.

Access to the same tax incentives

Used electric vehicles can benefit from the same tax incentives and government assistance as new models. The Roulez Vert program, for example, offers attractive financial support to help reduce the cost of purchase even further. These incentives make the pre-owned option even more attractive, enabling buyers to benefit from significant assistance to reduce their initial investment while committing themselves to an eco-responsible approach.

Ready to switch to electric cars?

Buying a used electric car in Quebec is a great way to reduce your ecological footprint and save money at the same time. Thanks to the Roulez Vert program, this transition is even more accessible. Don't hesitate to contact dealers or specialized organizations for personalized advice and to find the ideal used electric vehicle. If you're interested in buying a used car, you ca n count on Automobile en direct. In addition to benefiting from our used vehicle expertise, you'll get a 30-day satisfaction guarantee, so you can be sure of your choice! So don't hesitate, it's time to go electric.