Canadian Tire is embracing the future – by adding charging stations for electric vehicles at 25 of the company’s gas locations in Ontario.

Addenergie Technologies says the stations will start rolling out early next year – joining the 2,500 locations along its Canadian charging network.

The federal government will be contributing nearly half – of a $1.8 million investment in the project – through a loan.

it’s part of Ottawa’s commitment to provide $62.5 million for fast-charging stations for electric vehicles – as well as natural gas and hydrogen refuelling stations – along key transportation corridors, like Highway 401.

Fast chargers can power-up 80 per cent of a vehicle’s capacity in up to 30 minutes – and will join dual Level 2 curbside chargers that take three to four hours.The rapid charging costs $20 per hour, with per minute billing – and the standard charging costs $1.50 per hour.