Like all great technological jumps, there is a huge push back on electric cars and condo parking. Just like when Apple removed the headphone jack (WHY?!?!) … consumers feel the same betrayal when their condo board makes it virtually impossible to install a charging point. Instead of fighting with your condo board to get permission to retrofit a charging point, consider moving to a building that is already offering electric car parking/charging.

Which buildings have electric car parking?

While there are a few buildings that do have electric charging stations (and more are being built) it’s not common. But, if you’re set on owning an electric vehicle and a condo, look at builders who are dedicated to building green buildings. Electric car parking factors highly into the metrics of most green awards. Consider West Side by Minto. Tridel is also committed to offering electric car parking at their new builds, like their luxury build at Queens Quay and Yonge: Aquabella. But even these builders only install a few electric parking spots at the cost of the initial buyer during the preconstruction sale.

Can I install an EV charger in my current parking spot?

Planning, installation, and politics (within the condo corp) means that your dream of installing an EV charger is slim-to-none. Most condo boards cite the growing concern that it’s too complicated, costly, and time-consuming to rewire the garages to support EV charging ports. Even if you’re willing to cover the cost of the charger, maintenance, and electricity, condo corporations are still hesitant to allow residents to take the plunge.

Most electric car enthusiasts usually give up after looking into the process to install a charging port in their condo.

Personally...

For my Birthday in September, I spent a few weeks in Florence, and for an historic city… I was blown away by the electric charging stations on public roads and the number of electric vehicles that I saw on the road. It put Toronto to shame.

This year we have a client moving from a condo to a freehold home, solely so they can buy their dream car… a Tesla.

Hopefully, Toronto takes a stronger stance on providing charging solutions to residents who live in condos soon. Demand is only growing, and EV technology is only making EV cars more practical. If you’re looking at preconstruction buildings that are offering EV charging, let us know and we can give you an up-to-date list.