Conservative Party Leader Pierre Poilievre has launched a sharp critique of the federal government's electric vehicle mandate, labelling it as "useless" in an exclusive year-end interview. The discussion, conducted with Sun political columnist Brian Lilley, took place at the Postmedia offices in Toronto on Thursday, December 18, 2025.
A Direct Critique of Federal Policy
In the sit-down conversation, Poilievre did not mince words when addressing the Liberal government's strategy on electric vehicles. The Conservative leader argued that the mandate, which sets mandatory sales targets for zero-emission vehicles, is an ineffective and burdensome approach. He positioned the policy as another example of government overreach that fails to address practical concerns for Canadian consumers and the automotive industry.
The interview, captured on video, delves into Poilievre's perspective on the policy's shortcomings. While the full content is reserved for subscribers, the preview makes clear his fundamental opposition to the regulatory framework. This critique aligns with his broader political messaging, which often focuses on reducing government intervention and what he frames as "common sense" solutions.
Context and Political Reaction
The electric vehicle mandate is a cornerstone of the federal government's plan to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from the transportation sector. It requires that a increasing percentage of new light-duty vehicles sold be zero-emission each year, with the goal of reaching 100% by 2035. Proponents argue it is necessary to combat climate change and spur investment in clean technology.
Poilievre's comments, however, reflect a significant point of political contention. His characterization of the mandate as "useless" signals a clear alternative policy direction should the Conservatives form government. The interview, published on December 27, 2025, serves as a year-end summation of this key disagreement. The publication invites readers to engage with the topic, asking "What do YOU think?" and encouraging comments or letters to the editor for potential publication.
Audience Engagement and Platform
The Toronto Sun is promoting the full interview behind its subscription paywall, offering it as exclusive content for registered readers. Subscribers gain access to the complete video discussion, along with other premium features like the digital ePaper and additional journalist analysis. The publication is also directing readers to its YouTube channel for more video content.
This interview is part of a wider media strategy by political figures to communicate directly with specific audiences ahead of the next federal election. Poilievre's choice to speak with a Sun columnist underscores his focus on reaching a particular segment of the Canadian electorate. The conversation adds to the ongoing national debate about the pace, cost, and method of Canada's transition to a lower-carbon economy, ensuring it remains a hot-button issue as the political year concludes.
