As organizations across the North consider whether electric vehicles (EVs) are the right fit for their fleets, many are asking practical questions. Are electric vehicles reliable in northern climates? What infrastructure is needed? How can operational needs and budgets be balanced?
To help answer these questions, the City of Yellowknife is hosting a free EV Fleet Management Conference.
Date: Tuesday, October 6, 2026
Time: 8:30 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.
Location: Explorer Hotel (Katimavik D & E)
Refreshments: Light breakfast for registered participants
The conference is intended for organizations that own, lease, manage, or procure light-duty vehicle fleets, including passenger cars, pickup trucks, SUVs, and minivans. Representatives from municipal and territorial governments, Indigenous governments and organizations, utilities, educational institutions, health care providers, non-profit organizations, and the private sector are encouraged to attend.
Participants will hear directly from organizations already operating EV fleets in northern conditions, gaining practical insights into vehicle selection, charging, winter operation, maintenance, and costs. Panel discussions, interactive question-and-answer sessions, and networking will provide opportunities to exchange ideas with peers, while a guided site visit to an operational EV charging station will offer a firsthand look at the infrastructure in practice.
"Fleet decisions represent a significant investment for organizations, particularly in northern communities where operating conditions are unique," said Charlsey White, Director of Planning and Development. "The City's role is to create opportunities for organizations to learn from real-world experience so they can make informed decisions based on their operational needs. Supporting knowledge-sharing and informed decision-making is one way the City is implementing its Climate Action Plan."
Registration is open from September 1 to 21, 2026. Each organization may register up to three participants, as space is limited.
The conference is hosted in partnership with Arctic Energy Alliance, the Yellowknife Car Share Co-op, Naka Power Utilities, the Government of the Northwest Territories Energy Division, and Yellowknife Motors. The City of Yellowknife gratefully acknowledges the financial support of Natural Resources Canada through the Education and Awareness Project Funding – Electric Vehicle Test Drives and Charging Education Program.
