BC Ferries is revising its transport policy to allow immobile electric vehicles and those with minor cosmetic damage on its vessels [1].

This change addresses safety concerns regarding lithium-ion batteries while resolving previous restrictions that left some EV owners stranded during transit [4, 5].

The new policy takes effect on May 19, 2025 [2]. Under the updated guidelines, BC Ferries will permit the transport of electric vehicles that are non-operational but do not have damaged batteries [1, 2]. This includes vehicles that may be immobile but have not suffered significant impacts that could compromise the battery pack [2, 3].

Vehicles with only minor cosmetic damage will also be eligible for transport [1]. The company is implementing these changes to provide clearer guidance for drivers and towing companies after receiving criticism over previous rules [4, 5].

"In short, EVs can still travel with us," a BC Ferries spokesperson said. "The updates are about safety and clarity, not restrictions on everyday drivers" [5].

The revised rules apply to vessels serving various routes, including those serving the Gulf Islands in British Columbia [1, 5]. The company noted that the primary goal is to balance passenger safety with the needs of EV owners, ensuring that high-risk, damaged batteries do not pose a fire hazard on board [4].

Some towing companies have expressed concern regarding how these changes will affect the future of EV transport [6]. However, the company maintains that the updated policy provides a necessary framework for identifying which non-operational vehicles are safe to carry [1, 2].

“EVs can still travel with us. The updates are about safety and clarity, not restrictions on everyday drivers.”

This policy shift reflects the growing challenge ferry operators face as EV adoption increases. By distinguishing between 'immobile' vehicles and 'damaged' batteries, BC Ferries is attempting to mitigate the specific risk of thermal runaway—where damaged lithium-ion batteries can cause uncontrollable fires—without blanket-banning all non-functional EVs, which would either strand passengers or create logistical bottlenecks for towing services.