As the electric vehicle (EV) industry continues to grow, companies are looking for the best place to innovate, scale and succeed.
Expanding into a new region is a major decision – one that requires finding the right mix of innovation, talent and connections to stay ahead in the competitive EV space.
To understand what makes Waterloo a top destination for automotive companies, we spoke with Dante LeFeuvere, Waterloo EDC’s EV Industry Project Lead. He shared insights into the region’s strong R&D ecosystem, academic-industry collaboration and the resources available to help EV businesses grow.
Here’s a recap of our conversation:
Q: What makes Waterloo ideal for EV companies looking to expand?
LEFEUVERE: Waterloo has emerged as a top destination for zero-emission vehicle (ZEV) companies thanks to our powerful combination of innovation, talent and strategic support from organizations like Waterloo EDC.
Innovation is at the core of Waterloo’s ecosystem, with the University of Waterloo playing a key role in cutting-edge research and technological advancements. But what truly sets Waterloo apart is the synergy between industry and academia, a unique collaboration that accelerates the development and commercialization of emerging automotive-related technologies like AI, autonomous driving, and battery chemistry.
Waterloo also offers an exceptional quality of life, a highly skilled workforce and a steady pipeline of new talent, making it an increasingly competitive destination for investment.
Q: What makes Waterloo’s EV supply chain unique?
LEFEUVERE: Waterloo’s geographic location is a major advantage. Positioned in the heart of the Windsor-Toronto corridor along Highway 401, the region provides easy access to North American markets. This gives companies a broader talent pool, with 750,000+ manufacturing and tech workers within a 45-minute drive.
Another key advantage is our clean energy grid. About 95% of Ontario’s energy comes from emissions-free sources. This allows companies to power their operations sustainably, aligning with the green initiatives that drive the EV industry.
Q: Which automotive companies are already located in Waterloo?
LEFEUVERE: Waterloo is home to a growing number of companies involved in the EV and ZEV ecosystem. In fact, Waterloo EDC will soon release a ZEV cluster map that highlights all local companies with exposure to the EV industry – from software and data analytics firms to automation, robotics, electric motors and charging system manufacturers.
Charging infrastructure, in particular, is an interesting one. Companies like Fractal EV manufacture chargers and charging hardware, while others, such as Spark Power and VCT Group, specialize in installing chargers and other solutions for businesses and landowners.
The electric motor and power systems sector is also well represented, with companies like Navitas Vehicle Systems and Accelerated Systems developing electric motors and integrating them into smaller applications like golf carts and e-bikes, with potential for broader expansion.
Waterloo is home to major industry players, like Siemens, ATS, Beckhoff, Eclipse, OTTO Motors by Rockwell, PWO and many others. And we can’t forget Toyota, Canada’s largest automotive manufacturer, which is currently producing a line of hybrid vehicles in Cambridge, one of the region’s three cities.
Discover more global brands that have located or expanded in Waterloo.
Q: What’s a recent EV story that’s come out of Waterloo?
LEFEUVERE: One of the biggest recent developments is the launch of the Ontario Battery and Electrochemical Research Centre (OBEC) at the University of Waterloo.
Led by Professors Linda Nazar and Michael Pope, OBEC is a cutting-edge research hub focused on advancing battery technology and electrochemical innovation. What makes OBEC unique is its collaborative approach – bringing together academia, industry and government to translate laboratory discoveries into real-world applications.
They’re also developing specialized educational programs to provide students with hands-on experience in battery chemistry and technologies. OBEC’s research and strong industry connections will, no doubt, strengthen Canada’s leadership in battery innovation.
Q: How does Waterloo EDC support EV companies in their expansion to Waterloo?
LEFEUVERE: Waterloo EDC offers a comprehensive suite of services tailored to ZEV companies and other businesses looking to grow in the region.
One of our key offerings is in-depth market analysis, arming companies with valuable data and insights to make informed decisions about expanding into the region. We also offer strategic advisory services and, most importantly, access to a strong network of industry leaders, government representatives and academic partners – all at no cost.
Building the right connections can accelerate business success. Instead of spending time establishing their own networks, companies working with Waterloo EDC can hit the ground running – immediately tapping into the region’s collaborative, innovation-driven business environment.
