This week, incentives to buy EVs, which are on display at the Vancouver International Autoshow, and some of the cool tech that’s in cars and trucks these days.

B.C. Government brings back incentives to buy electric vehicles

If you’re looking to buy a new car, you’ve got 5,000 reasons to consider an electric vehicle (EV). This week, details of the provincial government’s renewed Clean Energy Vehicle program were announced.

Buying a new electric or plug-in hybrid vehicle will save you up to $5,000.

If a hydrogen fuel cell is more up your alley, you can save up to $6,000 (the extra grand is to compensate you for having access to fewer charging stations).

Read more at BC Hydro

See some EVs at the Vancouver Autoshow

Some 27 clean energy vehicles from 15 manufacturers are on the floor of the Vancouver Convention Centre this week as part of the Vancouver International Autoshow.

The Tesla Model S P85D is there, as is a Porsche 918 Spyder hybrid. Also look for cool concept EVs from Audi (the Inspiration hybrid), Nissan (the three-seater BladeGlider), and Toyota (the single-seat iRoad, which actually leans into turns; watch the video of it in action below).

Two vehicles powered by hyrdrogen fuel cells are also on display: Hyundai’s Tucson Fuel Cell crossover utility vehicle (which is actually on Lower Mainland roads right now) and Toyota’s Mirai concept.

Read more at BC Hydro

Cool vehicular tech at the Autoshow

A number of auto manufacturers are also rolling out with more general technology in vehicles.

The Audi Q7 is one of the first vehicles to implement Apple CarPlay, which gives your dashboard an iPhone-like interface. A company rep said that Android Auto will also be supported. And you can open and close the tailgate by simply moving your foot under the rear bumper.

Chevrolet is equipping more than 30 vehicles in its lineup with 4G/LTE routers. Which turns your car into a big roaming hotspot. You can connect up to 7 devices, data plans start at $10 a month, and there are no roaming charges if you travel to the U.S.

Lincoln is doing something similar with its new made-in-Canada MKX SUV. It’s connectivity enables a range of smartphone functions, including remote start and door locking and unlocking. It will even greet you with a, “Hello,” when you approach the vehicle.