In this engaging podcast episode from the 360 on Energy and Carbon series, the spotlight is on Honda Canada's transformative journey toward electrification. Jean Marc Leclerc, president and CEO of Honda Canada, discusses the company’s ambitious plans for electric vehicle (EV) production, its environmental commitments, and the strategies it is employing to align with global trends in sustainability.

The episode delves into Honda Canada’s role in advancing sustainability and creating an EV manufacturing ecosystem in Canada, while also reflecting on the challenges and opportunities that come with this transition.

Building Canada’s EV future: A visionary approach

Leclerc shares Honda Canada's roadmap for electrification. The company is making a significant investment in establishing Canada as a hub for EV manufacturing and battery production, highlighting its role in the global shift toward sustainable mobility. Key themes include:

• Global Leadership: Honda Canada's clean energy transition is part of a global commitment to sustainability, with the country serving as a centre of excellence for EV production.
• Environmental Goals: Honda’s "Triple Action to Zero" initiative aims for zero emissions, 100 per cent renewable energy usage and resource recirculation by 2050.

Key takeaways from the episode

Aligning global and Canadian priorities:

• Honda Canada is aligning its efforts with global manufacturing standards and sustainability goals, leveraging Canada's clean energy, skilled workforce and resources.

Sustainability as a driving force:

• Leclerc emphasizes the company’s longstanding commitment to environmental responsibility, deeply embedded in Honda’s DNA.

Strategic investments:

• $1.55 billion to build EV and battery manufacturing facilities.
• New geothermal energy systems to reduce reliance on fossil fuels.

Challenges and collaboration:

• Addressing gaps in infrastructure, like charging networks and grid resilience.
• Advocating for government coordination to meet ambitious EV adoption targets.

Innovation and clean slate:

• Starting fresh with new manufacturing technologies to meet sustainability goals.
• Developing modular, flexible, digital production methods to streamline EV manufacturing.

Turning vision into reality

Leclerc highlights the importance of collaboration between Honda, governments and other stakeholders to realize Canada’s potential in the global EV transition. The company’s investment is not just economic but also strategic, positioning Canada as a leader in sustainable manufacturing.

Speaker spotlight: Jean Marc Leclerc

• Jean Marc Leclerc: President and CEO of Honda Canada, Leclerc is at the forefront of the company’s Canadian EV initiatives. With over 25 years at Honda, he brings a wealth of experience and a passion for innovation, sustainability and growth in the automotive industry.
• David Arkell: President and CEO of 360 Energy
• John Pooley: Vice-president of program development and co-founder of 360 Energy
• Lysandra Naom: Executive producer of The 360 On Energy and Carbon Podcast