New Tecumseth Mayor Richard Norcross has provided a statement regarding the future of Canada’s manufacturing sector.
It’s no secret that Honda plays a major role in New Tecumseth’s economy, providing a significant amount of local jobs with their facility. Mayor Norcross addresses the motor vehicle market, how potential electric vehicles may impact the community, and what steps are being taken to protect the future.
Here’s the full statement:
“This is a pivotal moment for Canada’s manufacturing sector. The federal government must adapt its policies to better support Canadian-made vehicles and ensure our industry remains competitive in a rapidly changing market. Through our Council and the Simcoe Auto Mayors, we are actively working together to advance these priorities, including upcoming engagement in Japan to reinforce relationships and advocate for continued investment. Here in New Tecumseth, we will continue working closely with Honda and all our manufacturing partners to protect local jobs, support investment, and position our community for long-term success.
“The Town of New Tecumseth is aware of recent media reports regarding Honda’s decision to halt plans for a proposed electric vehicle facility in Ontario.
“Our community has a long and proud history as a centre of automotive manufacturing, and Honda remains a valued and significant partner in New Tecumseth. We will continue to work collaboratively with Honda and all our manufacturing partners to support ongoing operations, protect local jobs, and position our community for future investment opportunities.
“This moment underscores the need for strong and coordinated leadership at the national level. The Government of Canada has a clear opportunity to modernize and adapt its policies and incentives to support Canadian-made vehicles—including hybrid and electrified technologies—ensuring our domestic manufacturing base remains resilient, competitive, and aligned with market realities.
“On April 27, 2026, our Council unanimously called on the Federal government to support:
- Recognition and integration of Canadian hybrid vehicles into the Federal Auto Strategy
- Federal government work with Quebec and British Columbia to suspend their EV Mandates
- Enact strict policies within the Federal Auto Strategy to enable fair competition between existing Canadian Auto Manufacturers and Chinese EV manufacturers
“Leading the Simcoe Auto Mayors, we are taking a coordinated approach—advocating for practical, market-aligned policies, strengthening relationships with industry leaders, and ensuring that the voice of municipalities is reflected in national decision-making. As part of this work, we will also be engaging directly in Japan to reinforce the importance of continued investment in our community and across Ontario’s manufacturing sector.
“New Tecumseth is taking a proactive, solutions-focused approach. Through our recent Manufacturing Sector Update and ongoing economic development efforts, we are actively working to:
- Support business retention and expansion within the manufacturing sector
- Strengthen relationships between industry, municipal government, and regional partners
- Advocate for practical, market-aligned policies that reflect the realities facing manufacturers today
- Promote workforce development and long-term economic resilience
- Position our community to attract future investment across both traditional and emerging automotive technologies
“Manufacturing continues to be a cornerstone of our local economy, supporting thousands of jobs and driving growth across the region. As industry conditions evolve, we remain committed to ensuring New Tecumseth is a competitive and supportive environment for investment.
“On May 21, the Town of New Tecumseth, alongside the Simcoe Auto Mayors, will come together at Town Hall to jointly call on the federal government for targeted amendments to federal automotive policies. At that time, we will also be unveiling a new initiative aimed at supporting and strengthening Canada’s automotive strategy.
“We remain confident in the strength of our manufacturing sector and the resilience of our local economy, and we will continue to work with our partners at every level to support its long-term success.”
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