Electric Vehicle Survey in the GCC
Transformations in the Automotive Industry
The automotive industry, akin to the tech sector, is undergoing continuous changes over time. One of the most significant shifts in recent years has been towards clean mobility, with hybrid and fully electric vehicles from various manufacturers addressing industry challenges. YallaMotor, the largest automotive website in the region, conducted the first of its kind survey with over 3,700 respondents to understand electric vehicle buyers’ opinions, perceptions, and purchasing intentions in the GCC region.
Survey Results
Driving Experience
As electric vehicles are relatively new to the global market, it is not surprising that 77% of participants had never driven an electric car. This figure is slightly offset by 14% of respondents who claimed to have driven a hybrid vehicle (gasoline + electric), while only 9% confirmed they had driven a fully electric car. With major manufacturers like Audi, Jaguar, and Porsche entering this sector soon, these numbers are expected to rise in the coming years.
Positive Perceptions
When asked about the perceived positive aspects of owning an electric vehicle, participants responded:
- 51% indicated that "fuel efficiency" is the primary benefit.
- 49% considered "reduction in carbon emissions" as the second benefit.
Notably, 25% of participants stated they do not know enough about electric mobility, leaving a significant opportunity for manufacturers and providers to educate potential buyers across the region.
Concerns About Electric Vehicles
Concerns surrounding electric vehicles are the primary reason preventing potential buyers from making a purchase, with 31% of participants (the vast majority) stating that electric cars need to have a range of 300 to 500 kilometers on a single charge to reconsider buying one. Some electric models that have been around for a while, like the Renault Zoe, are approaching this range, while newer electric vehicles from brands like Chevrolet and Tesla offer nearly 500 kilometers on a single charge, aligning with potential buyers' requirements.
Charging Times
Amid concerns about driving range, 50% of survey participants stated that electric vehicles must be able to fully charge their batteries in less than two hours to consider purchasing one. Based on the current infrastructure, this may pose the biggest barrier to accelerating electric vehicle adoption across the region, but there is hope as many manufacturers are experimenting with reducing charging times to match gasoline refueling durations.
Empowering Women
Finally, in advancing women's empowerment throughout the region, 47% of women voted in favor of owning an electric vehicle as their primary mode of transportation, while the results varied among men, who do not consider an electric vehicle as a primary means of transport.
