News on June 19, as gasoline becomes more and more expensive, the daily cost of oil vehicles is also getting higher and higher, and even domestic oil prices have hit a record high. Likewise, the UAE has seen a surge in demand for electric vehicles.
Given the high gasoline prices in the UAE, Belal Nasr, CEO of New Auto, stressed that electric vehicles are extremely cost-effective.
"Instead of spending Dh2,000 on gas, we can spend the same amount as a new electric car instalment,” he said. “Also, banks are offering very attractive interest rates for electric cars and the government is encouraging everyone to go electric. car."
He said demand for electric vehicles had surged as oil prices rose; customers were worried as prices remained high in the global market.
At present, in the UAE market, Volkswagen, Hyundai, Kia and other electric vehicle brands are all importers. Nasr noted that the UAE market is experiencing a scarcity of electric vehicles due to high demand in the local market.
A survey conducted by Audi Abu Dhabi shows that 52% of UAE residents plan to buy a hybrid or electric vehicle due to rising oil prices, while 25% are waiting for more electric vehicle alternatives before making a decision . In addition, 14% said they recently bought a gas car, but would rather have a hybrid/electric car.
Global oil prices surged in June, with the UAE hitting a record high of nearly Dh4 a litre, up 56% from January 2022.
Mark Austin, general manager of Audi Abu Dhabi, said: "Over time, interest in electric vehicles started to grow naturally. However, rising gasoline prices may have accelerated consumer attitudes toward electric vehicles. "
Electric vehicle charging is currently a free or relatively cheap option, according to Amjad Nasr, managing director of New Auto. “The cost of charging an electric car is much lower compared to the oil price. A regular car only costs Dh200-250 to fill up. So 8 to 10 refills per month means Dh2,000, while Owners can use the money to pay for monthly instalments for electric vehicles.”
In the UAE, many malls and buildings now offer free charging and parking for electric vehicles. Owners of "eco-friendly vehicles" can also get a tax-free sticker when they register.
Amjad said the demand for trams in the UAE is staggering, with an increase of nearly 200% compared to last year.
"People are asking for electric cars because fuel prices are soaring. For example, one of our customers who drove a large 4x4 complained that the fuel cost for the commute between Dubai and Abu Dhabi was as much as Dh2,000+. People who drive long distances choose Electric cars, that will save them a lot of money," he said.
