Two Canadian companies – one in Lakeshore near Windsor, the other in Ottawa, Canada – have developed innovations that have the potential to make cars lighter, more fuel efficient and, in the case of electric cars, better performing due to a longer battery life.
These innovations lead to well-paying jobs for the middle class and business opportunities for Canadians working in the automotive sector. They also lead to cleaner technologies that are better for the environment, resulting in healthier communities for all Canadians.
The Honorable Navdeep Bains, Minister of Innovation, Science and Economic Development, announced funding totaling $18.2 million for the two companies.
Astrex Inc. of Lakeshore will receive a repayable contribution of up to $17 million from the Federal Economic Development Agency’s (FedDev Ontario) Advanced Manufacturing Fund. The investment will enable Astrex, a manufacturer of auto parts, to establish a facility that produces lightweight, high-strength aluminum components. The parts manufactured at this plant will reduce fuel consumption and lower carbon emissions.
The company plans to create 62 new full time jobs this year and an additional 24 jobs in the next 2 years as a result of the federal investment.
Another $1.2 million in a non-repayable contribution will go to GBatteries Energy Canada Inc. of Ottawa. The funding from Sustainable Development Technology Canada’s SD Tech Fund, which funds clean-technology projects, will allow the company to develop longer lasting batteries for electric cars. The battery system would also recharge much more quickly than existing ones.
The Government of Canada’s Innovation Agenda will promote clean growth, good jobs and higher living standards for the middle class. The investments in Astrex and GBatteries are examples of this plan in action.
Other programs that support research and development activities in the auto sector include the Automotive Innovation Fund and the Automotive Supplier Innovation Program.
Published in the May 2017 Edition of American Recycler News
