May 5, 2026
BC Ferries Announces Policy Update to Safely Transport Immobile Undamaged EVs
Summary
- Immobile electric vehicles (EVs) that are undamaged or have only minor cosmetic damage that does not compromise the vehicle’s frame or battery integrity will now be accepted for transport on BC Ferries.
- The updated policy aligns with federal transportation of dangerous goods requirements and established marine safety procedures.
- Travel restrictions remain in place for immobile damaged EVs where battery integrity cannot be confirmed.
VICTORIA, BC - BC Ferries is updating its policy to permit immobile undamaged or cosmetically damaged electric vehicles (EVs) to travel on its ferries, following engagement with Transport Canada officials and discussions with industry experts.
Beginning on May 19, immobile EVs with no damage or only minor cosmetic damage that does not compromise the vehicle’s frame or battery integrity will be permitted on board. This change applies only to immobile EVs being towed or carried on board, not to EVs driven under their own power, which are already permitted if they meet the requirements of BC’s Motor Vehicle Act. The safeguards mirror BC Ferries’ established Dangerous Goods procedures, which are governed by federal regulations, maintaining consistency of processes with existing marine safety practices while providing clarity and certainty for both customers and staff.
“We understand the importance of this policy for ferry-dependent residents and EV owners,” said Darren Johnston, Vice President of Marine Operations at BC Ferries. “Our revised policy recognizes the challenges they face while at the same time ensures that we comply with laws and regulations and continue to keep our focus on the safety of all our passengers and crew while travelling with BC Ferries.”
To support this change, BC Ferries has also published updated materials on its website, including reference images illustrating cosmetic versus more serious damage and guidance for improving the likelihood of successfully transporting immobile vehicles.
The Canadian Vehicle Manufacturers’ Association (CVMA) welcomed the move as a practical evolution in step with advancements in EV technology. “As electric vehicles become more common, it’s essential that transportation policies continue to adapt while keeping safety at the core,” said Brian Kingston, President and CEO, CVMA.
The Automotive Retailers Association also expressed support: “Our industry has been actively engaged with BC Ferries on this issue, and we’re pleased to see BC Ferries is delivering solutions that recognize both safety requirements and the realities faced by EV owners and operators,” said Ken Hendricks, Senior Advisor at the Automotive Retailers Association.
Blair Qualey, President & CEO of the New Car Dealers Association of BC added: “This is a practical and welcome step forward for EV owners. For many coastal and island communities, ferry travel is an essential transportation link, including when vehicles need to be moved for service or repair. This update provides greater clarity and certainty for customers while maintaining important safety requirements - and we appreciate BC Ferries’ engagement with industry partners to reach a balanced solution.”
Glenn Garry, President of the Victoria EV Association added: “BC Ferries has worked diligently with many experts and interest holders over the last several months to arrive at a policy that enables the vast majority of EVs to continue their safe travels. The Victoria EV Association on behalf of all EV owners appreciates the effort put forward by all.”
Since damaged or defective lithium batteries pose a serious fire risk, particularly in enclosed marine environments, federal transportation of dangerous goods regulations require that compromised high-voltage batteries be removed and transported separately. As a result, the transportation of immobile damaged EVs - including vehicles where high-voltage battery damage cannot be ruled out - will remain restricted unless the battery has been removed in accordance with Transport Canada regulations. The vessel’s Captain retains final discretion to refuse transport if safety concerns remain unresolved.
Where a damaged EV still contains its battery, ferry operators are responsible for determining whether its transport would pose a safety risk to passengers and crew. BC Ferries does not have the mandate or technical authority to inspect, remove, or independently certify compromised EV batteries. BC Ferries crews are not trained to diagnose technical and complex issues with EVs. There is currently no standardized inspection framework that ferry operators can rely on to verify battery integrity for marine transport. Until or unless a consistent, industry-recognized framework is established, these restrictions will remain in place. BC Ferries has committed to working with regulators and industry partners if they choose to pursue such a framework to support development of a clear and standardized path forward.
The updated policy reflects BC Ferries’ commitment to evolving responsibly as vehicle technologies change while maintaining rigorous safety standards. The policy will continue to be updated and amended as technical and legal regulations change with improved information about the use of EV batteries and best practises for the safe transport of EVs.
For more information, visit the BC Ferries website.
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