Questions and Answers

1. Who can apply?

   Any person can apply for a rebate as long as that person purchases or leases (long term lease of 12 months or more) a new eligible vehicle that has never been registered for use in Canada and meet the program's fuel consumption criteria.

2. How do I apply?

   A rebate program will be put in place in the coming months. In the meantime, we ask consumers to keep a copy of their proof of purchase or a copy of the long-term lease agreement (12 months or longer) of the eligible vehicles listed on this website. Consumers will also be asked to show proof of registration in Canada along with the Vehicle Identification Number. Further details will be available in the coming months.

3. How long will it take to receive my rebate?

   A rebate program will be put in place in the coming months; the Government of Canada will issue rebate cheques as soon as the program is in place. The government is aiming for the Fall of 2007.

4. When does the program begin?

   New eligible vehicles purchased or leased (long term lease of 12 months or more) as of March 20, 2007 will qualify for the rebate. The list of eligible vehicles is posted on this website.

5. I am a business, can I get the rebate?

   Any person or business can have access to a rebate provided that the person or business purchases or leases an eligible vehicle that appears on the list on this website and registers the vehicle in Canada. We ask consumers to keep a copy of their proof of purchase or a copy of the long-term lease agreement (12 months or longer) of the eligible vehicle listed on this website. Consumers will also be asked to show proof of registration in Canada along with the Vehicle Identification Number. Further details will be posted in the coming months.

6. I bought my car before March 20, 2007, is it eligible?

   Only vehicles appearing on the list that are purchased or leased (12 months or more) on or after March 20, 2007 are eligible.

7. Why are many vehicles not on the list?

   The goal of the program is to cover very energy efficient vehicles. The vehicles that appear on this list meet specific fuel consumption targets.

8. If I plan to buy a vehicle next year, could I qualify for the rebate?

   The list of eligible vehicles will be updated as new vehicles are introduced on the market and fuel-efficiency ratings become available. Please re-visit this website periodically for updates.

9. Why is the Government of Canada proposing this rebate program?

   The Government of Canada is proposing the Rebate Program to help consumers help the environment.

10. Can I benefit from both the federal rebate and a provincial rebate that is offered in my province?

    The federal rebate can complement a provincial rebate. For a list of provinces that offer a rebate please use the following links:

11. I am thinking of buying a 2006 model, is it eligible for the ecoAUTO rebate?

    If the vehicle is new and meets the program fuel consumption criteria, it may be eligible. The complete 2006 vehicle eligibility list is now available. We ask consumers to keep a copy of their proof of purchase or a copy of the long-term lease agreement (12 months or longer) of the vehicle.

12. What is the vehicle identification number?

    Your car’s vehicle identification number (VIN) is the unique identifying code for your own automobile. It is your car's fingerprint. It sets your vehicle apart from the millions of vehicles out there. Recently the VIN consists of 17 digit characters. It displays a car’s uniqueness and manufacturer and provides a method to trace your car from the factory to the scrappage yard. Your VIN can be used to track recalls, registrations, warranty claims, thefts and insurance coverage.

    The VIN number would normally be on your purchase or long term lease agreement. You could also find it on your vehicle. Common locations of the VIN on the vehicle vary but the following are places to look:

13. Is the rebate taxable?

    The rebate is not taxable for individuals who acquire the vehicle for personal purposes. If the vehicle is acquired for business use, the rebate is taxable or alternatively the business may reduce the vehicle's depreciable cost. Similarly, an employee who is entitled to deduct vehicle expenses in computing employment income will be required to reduce the vehicle's depreciable cost. For further information on this issue, please contact Canada Revenue Agency a the 1-800-267-6999 (Tax Information Phone Service to individuals and businesses)