Photo courtesy Mitsubishi Motors

Provincially owned electricity provider Hydro-Quebec is planning what will reportedly be Canada's largest all-electric vehicle pilot project to date, to be hosted by Boucherville, Que., beginning this fall.

Hydro-Quebec will test the performance of up to 50 cars from Mitsubishi Motor Sales of Canada. The project will involve local businesses and municipal departments deploying the new 'i' model of the Mitsubishi Innovative Electric Vehicle (MiEV), studying its electric charging needs and the driving experience, particularly in winter weather. The i-MiEV is highway-capable and can be charged at home.

"This pilot project will allows us to advance our knowledge of the technology and its integration into our grid, which will help us plan the necessary charging infrastructure for homes, offices and public places," says Thierry Vandal, president and CEO of Hydro-Quebec.

The city of Boucherville was chosen for its diversity of businesses and its proximity to Hydro-Quebec's research institute. There is also a local Mitsubishi dealership to oversee maintenance.