The vehicle ran without any technical issues during the trip
Average energy consumption stood at 18.9 kWh/100 km
He charged the vehicle 87 times, for a total cost of $1,403.13
An electric driving enthusiast, Nadeau embarked on this ambitious expedition behind the wheel of an unmodified, fully electric Hyundai IONIQ 5. Setting off on April 24 from Hyundai Canada’s headquarters, he crossed five provinces and two territories—proving that long-distance travel in an EV is not only feasible, but practical, even in the country’s most remote regions. He returned to Markham on June 10, after a journey filled with breathtaking landscapes, logistical challenges, and a few unexpected roadblocks.
A Test of Endurance—and Range
Despite the still-patchy charging infrastructure in northern Canada, Nadeau was able to carefully plan his route. The IONIQ 5 used for the trip featured an 84 kWh battery and a rated range of 463 km, and it lived up to the task.
“Traveling this far in any vehicle is an adventure! The most difficult parts of the journey for me were two stretches of nearly 400 kilometers with nothing in sight—not even a 110-volt outlet!” Nadeau shared.
Over the round trip, he recharged the vehicle 87 times at a total cost of $1,403.13—far less than the roughly $2,500 in fuel that a traditional SUV would have required. The average energy consumption came in at 18.9 kWh per 100 km. Impressively, the car completed the trip without a single mechanical issue or flat tire, even while carrying an extra 400 pounds of gear, including cameras, food, camping equipment, and a spare tire picked up in Whitehorse.
Hyundai CanadaChallenges Beyond the EV
Interestingly, the biggest setbacks had nothing to do with the car’s range. Instead, it was the wild and unpredictable nature of northern Canada that posed the most serious obstacles. Nadeau was stranded for several days in Dawson City due to an unavailable ferry, and his return was delayed by wildfires that shut down parts of the Alaska Highway.
“Reaching Tuktoyaktuk in the IONIQ 5 was an incredible feeling—a true testament to the vehicle’s resilience and the growing EV charging network across Canada,” he said. “This trip wasn’t just about the distance; it was about showing what’s possible with an EV, and more importantly, creating a unique experience for children through Hyundai’s ‘Hope on Wheels’ initiative. The support and curiosity of Canadians along the way was truly inspiring.”
A Shared and Compassionate Adventure
Beyond the technical feat, this journey had a deeply human purpose. Using virtual reality footage captured on the road, Hyundai Canada and its charitable program Hope on Wheels will give young cancer patients the chance to virtually explore Western Canada from their hospital beds.
A Strong Signal for an Electric Future
For Hyundai Canada, the project underscores the company’s commitment to a greener future. “Hyundai is committed to an all-electric future, and we’re proud to offer the most award-winning EV lineup in Canada,” said Steve Flamand, President of Hyundai Auto Canada.
