Rising fuel prices are causing UAE residents to consider switching away from petrol and diesel-run vehicles, according to a new survey by Audi Abu Dhabi.
More than half of the respondents surveyed by Audi Abu Dhabi stated that they are considering hybrid or electric vehicles.
Petrol prices in the UAE have progressively risen from February to April, as global oil prices have stayed above $100 a barrel for most of 2022.
“Interest in EVs has continued to grow organically over time, however increasing petrol prices has certainly accelerated the shift in consumers attitude towards EV adoption,” said Mark Austin, Audi Abu Dhabi’s general manager.
“When considering energy efficiency across the full lifecycle of producing, transporting and using fuel – typically referred to as “well to wheel” – electric vehicles offer high efficiency and the lowest carbon emissions per mile.”
While residents’ intent to buy an EV seems strong, nearly 25 percent stated that they are waiting for more options to be launched in the market to make a purchase.
Additionally, 14 percent said they recently bought a petrol car but wished they would have purchased a hybrid or EV instead.
“Depending on the type of car you drive, the average cost of filling a fuel tank can be upwards of AED 270 versus AED 8.25 to fully charge an EV battery with a 110 kWh charger. With EVs, owners also save on operating expenses,” Austin added.
The YouGov survey of 1000 UAE residents explored how the rise in fuel prices is impacting the way consumers are thinking about their means of transportation.
Residents are planning their car journeys more carefully with a quarter saying they use public transport a lot more now, while 14 percent of drivers have purchased an electric scooter/bike to use over short distances.
Remote and flexible working options are also helping residents mitigate rising fuel costs, with 19 percent saving more on fuel expenses by working from home.
Audi Abu Dhabi launched its first EV model under the e-tron umbrella nearly two years ago. Its premium electric vehicles portfolio has since grown to include four models, without compromising on the performance, design and driving dynamics expected of the brand.
Two of Audi’s latest electric spearheads are being showcased at the Electric Vehicle Innovation Summit (EVIS) in the capital from 23-25 May.
EVIS is a platform that aims to facilitate discussions and mobilise actions to accelerate the MENA region’s transition to sustainable mobility.
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