More electric cars, reduction in greenhouse gases part of Quebec government plan

Election-style announcement outlines Premier Philippe Couillard's goals heading toward Oct. 1 vote

Image | André Fortin Philippe Couillard

Caption: Transport Minister André Fortin, left, and Premier Philippe Couillard announced the Quebec government's goals for sustainable mobility Tuesday in Montreal. (Charles Contant/CBC)

Quebec's Liberal government is promising to increase the number of electric cars, improve road safety and lower greenhouse gas emissions as part of a long-term transportation plan.
"With this sustainable mobility policy, we will transform the way we move," Premier Philippe Couillard said Tuesday.
The election-style announcement outlined goals for the province through 2030.
The commitments come seven months before the Oct. 1 provincial election.
The targets include:
  • a 20 per cent reduction in commuting time.
  • a 40 per cent reduction in oil consumption tied to transportation, below 2013 levels.
  • a 37.5 per cent reduction in greenhouse gas emissions tied to transportation, below 1990 levels.
  • a 20 per cent reduction in the number of cars on the road without a passenger.
Couillard said the province would put $2.9 billion in additional funds toward the goals through 2023.