Canada’s Project Arrow EV platforms feature Additive Manufacturing
The Automotive Parts Manufacturers’ Association (APMA) has unveiled the next phase of Canada’s national vehicle innovation programme, Project Arrow, during Media Day at the 2026 Canadian International AutoShow (CIAS). The announcement introduced two new electric vehicle prototypes: Project Arrow Vector and Project Arrow Borealis.
These mark the first public presentation of vehicle platforms developed as part of Project Arrow Phase 2.0. According to the APMA, the new platforms are intended to scale Canadian-developed technologies, support commercialisation pathways, and outline a long-term mobility vision extending to 2030 and beyond.
Project Arrow was first introduced in 2023 as Canada’s first fully Canadian-designed, engineered and built zero-emissions concept vehicle. The initiative established a national collaboration between automotive suppliers, academic institutions and technology partners. Phase 2.0 builds on this foundation, shifting the programme’s focus from concept demonstration to the deployment of next-generation technologies. Vector and Borealis represent the first prototype vehicles developed under this phase.
“Project Arrow began as a national ambition to prove that Canada could design and build its own zero-emissions vehicle,” stated Flavio Volpe, APMA President. “With Phase 2.0, we are advancing that platform into the technologies, systems and industrial capabilities that will define mobility in the 2030s and 2040s.”
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Project Arrow Vector – Canada Auto 2030
Vector is designed as a near-term innovation platform intended to demonstrate commercially scalable technologies aligned with projected mobility requirements in 2030.
Key features include an AI-designed lightweight chassis produced using polymer and aluminium Additive Manufacturing, a 650 hp all-electric powertrain, an estimated driving range of 550 km, and Level 3 autonomous driving capability.
Project Arrow Borealis – Canada Auto 2040
Borealis serves as a research and design platform exploring longer-term mobility concepts and infrastructure integration.
Concept technologies proposed for the vehicle include Level 5 fully autonomous driving capability, smart-city connected vehicle systems, and an AI-designed metal-alloy chassis and powertrain produced using Additive Manufacturing. The concept vehicle is also projected to achieve a driving range of up to 1,500 km through zero-emissions propulsion technologies.
Project Arrow Phase 2.0 is being developed in partnership with Ontario Tech University, which serves as the programme’s lead build partner. The university is responsible for engineering integration, prototype assembly and research collaboration.
According to APMA, the programme incorporates technologies, systems and materials developed by more than eighty Canadian automotive suppliers and ecosystem partners.
Strategic support
Project Arrow Phase 2.0 is supported through funding and partnerships from the Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario (FedDev Ontario) and the Ontario Vehicle Innovation Network (OVIN). According to the organisations, these investments are intended to support the development of electrification, advanced manufacturing and connected vehicle technologies in Canada.
