Automotive Market Transformation: UAE Consumers Fully Embrace Electrified Vehicles

UAE’s automotive market is going through a major transformation to achieve its net zero emission by 2050 and consume up to 30% of clean energy by 2030. In the meantime, the UAE government has planned to invest $54 billion in the generation of clean energy and support its sustainable goals. With this massive plan, the automotive industry of the UAE is seeing a major transition from ICE vehicles to NEVs.

While previously dominated by mechanical internal combustion engine vehicles, the UAE car buyers are now focusing on electric vehicles and hybrid electric vehicles as these mobility options not only promise zero emissions but also provide efficient performance and a cost-effective ownership experience.

Jacky Brand, MD of Al-Futtaim Toyota and Lexus UAE, signifies that the low cost of ownership and advanced performance are two major factors that are reshaping the country’s automotive market. Brand further states that sustainable mobility in the UAE is fueled by the expansion of charging infrastructure, continuous government support, and rising consumer awareness of eco-friendly options.

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To maintain pace with EV and hybrid adoption, Al-Futtaim has launched advanced hybrid models in the UAE, including Lexus LX 700h, the first hybrid model added to the flagship LX lineup, and Toyota Land Cruiser LC300 Hybrid, the first electric hybrid model included in the iconic Land Cruiser series. The official distributor of Toyota and Lexus has also offered several models in categories like HEVs, Plug-in Hybrids, and Battery Electric Vehicles, ensuring each kind of customer has potential options available in the market.

Tackling one of the major challenges of EV adoptions, including battery life and maintenance, the automaker has promised to maintain the quality and reliability that ICE models from Toyota are known for.

Adding to the sales numbers, Brand stated that over 20 million units of hybrid and electric units of various Toyota models have already been sold in the global market. This major achievement was achieved because of high safety standards and battery systems that are designed to last the lifetime of the vehicle.

On the maintenance part, Al-Futtaim Toyota and Lexus MD also confirmed that HEVs and EVs typically require less maintenance compared to conventional ICE models, as these models have fewer moving parts. Also, the regenerative braking feature helps extend the lifespan of brakes, which results in financial savings. To offer more peace of mind to buyers, the automaker is also equipping its hybrid vehicles with a self-charging feature, so there is no need for external charging infrastructure.

To make the charging infrastructure even more accessible and convenient for EV buyers, Al-Futtaim plans to contribute to the installation of 10% of the country’s charging stations by 2030.