The list of 2008 model year vehicles which qualify for the government's ecoAUTO rebate was released this Friday from Ottawa. The program, ongoing since March, encourages Canadian new-car shoppers to invest in an environmentally friendly vehicle by providing rebates based on the machine's fuel economy.

"The ecoAUTO Rebate Program is one example of how this government is encouraging Canadians to make more environmentally friendly transportation choices. It also saves them money and protects their health and the environment" said Hon. Lawrence Cannon, Minister of Transport, Infrastructure and Communities.


The rebate amount depends on where the vehicle lands in a fuel economy scale. Passenger cars achieving mileage under 6.5 litres per 100km are eligible, as are light trucks and SUV's which return better than 8.3 L / 100km. Additionally, flex-fuel vehicles which consume less than 13L / 100km are eligible for a rebate.

Customers purchase the vehicle and fill out an application form to send back for their rebate, which is paid by the Government- not the dealerships or carmakers.

This year's eligible vehicle list includes the Toyota Prius, Honda Civic, Saturn Vue and Ford Escape hybrid models, alongside the smart fortwo and fortwo cabriolet. A complete list of eligible vehicles is available on Transport Canada's website.


Photo Credit : Marc Bouchard