The UAE ranks fourth in the world for affordable electric vehicle charging infrastructure, beating countries like the UK and US according to a new report from Compare the Market Australia.
Various factors were analyzed to determine the affordability of EV charging infrastructure in different countries. These factors included the cost of electricity, average distance traveled per charge, and the availability of charging stations.
One of the key findings of the report was that the UAE offers highly competitive prices for EV charging. With an average cost of $1.02 per 100km worth of charge, it is significantly cheaper compared to countries like the UK and US where costs can be as high as $5 or more per 100km. The top spots were claimed by Argentina, Malaysia and India which have the lowest EV charging costs, ahead of the UAE.
This affordability factor is crucial for encouraging wider adoption of electric vehicles in any country. High costs associated with charging infrastructure have often been cited as a barrier to entry for potential EV owners. However, with its affordable rates, the UAE is leading by example and setting a benchmark for other nations to follow.
Furthermore, it’s not just electric vehicle owners who benefit from this affordable infrastructure. The report also highlighted that petrol prices in the UAE are among some of the most affordable globally. With an average cost of $5.57 per 100km driven on gasoline-powered vehicles, it ranks third overall in terms of affordability.
These findings indicate that there are significant savings to be made by switching from traditional gasoline-powered vehicles to electric ones in the UAE. In fact, according to Compare The Market Australia’s calculations based on their data analysis, drivers could save up to 81.77% on their fuel bills by making this transition.
This presents a compelling case for individuals and businesses alike to consider adopting electric vehicles as part of their transportation fleet or personal use vehicles. Not only would they contribute towards reducing carbon emissions but also save considerably on fuel costs.
The UAE government has been actively promoting the adoption of electric vehicles through various incentives and initiatives. They have set a target of having 42,000 electric vehicles on the road by 2030, as part of their broader plan to reduce carbon emissions and promote sustainable development. The country has also made significant investments in electric vehicle infrastructure, including the installation of charging stations across major cities and highways.
As part of their efforts to support EV ownership, the government has previously announced plans to install over 600 charging stations across the country. These stations are strategically placed in key locations such as shopping malls, hotels, and residential complexes to ensure convenient access for EV owners.
Additionally, the UAE has also introduced special benefits for electric vehicle owners. These include exemptions from registration fees and toll charges in certain areas. Such incentives further contribute towards making EV ownership more attractive and affordable for individuals.
These measures seem to be working. The country is in 8th position of the global electric mobility readiness index, according to findings of a 2022 Arthur D. Little report. The country’s EV market is also forecasted to grow at 30% each year until 2028.
By contrast, Denmark and Italy have emerged as the joint priciest nations for electric vehicle charging. They are closely trailed by Germany, with Belgium, Lithuania, and Austria sharing the fourth position, and The Netherlands following suit. Motorists in Denmark and Italy spend $7.49 on electricity for every 100km journey, compared with $12.55 and $10.35 spent on petrol for the same distance in Denmark and Italy respectively.
