Image: Tesla Inc.
Tesla is in the process of obtaining approval to establish a dealership and service center at 3234-3274 Wonderland Road South, at the southeast corner of Bradley Avenue in south London, Ontario, Canada.
The Planning and Environment Committee (PEC) reviewed the request on Monday. If approved, the facility would be one of Tesla’s largest dealerships in Canada, serving customers across southwestern Ontario. The nearest existing Tesla dealership is located in Kitchener, reports CTV News.
Councillors have urged Tesla to adopt a more eco-friendly approach in the design of the dealership. “This application is asking for 504 parking spots,” said Coun. Skylar Franke. She further emphasized that while electric vehicles are more environmentally friendly than their gas-powered counterparts, the infrastructure for cars still has an environmental impact.
The PEC recommended approval of the zoning amendment but expressed a wish to see modifications in the size and design of the parking area. Franke mentioned that the city is in the process of developing a by-law for green parking lot standards. “We want you to have low impact elements like bio-swales where there are trees and plants, and some solar charging roofs,” she told CTV News.
The council is set to make a final decision on Tuesday, Sept. 26. If the dealership receives the green light, construction is slated to begin this spring, with a proposed opening in 2025.
