Electric vehicles (EVs) create six times fewer carbon emissions than standard petrol vehicles. Yet, there’s estimated to be just 1,000 fully electric vehicles on Dubai’s roads, according to Arabian Business. However, all is not lost, as opting for a green vehicle will show that you’re supporting Dubai’s 32,000 by 2020 EV target while helping to save the planet.
Multiple green options available
At present, there’s just a handful of cars for sale in the UAE which are fully electric. Fully electric vehicles are the greenest vehicle you can choose as they have no exhaust and thus no emissions. However, with options in the Emirates currently limited, some road users prefer a plug-in hybrid. These hybrids rely on both a petrol engine and an electric motor and need to be charged with electric power. While they are less green then a fully electric vehicle, they emit fewer emissions than petrol and diesel cars and are a viable green option.
Spend more to save more
Some of the most accessible EVs in Dubai and the UAE are manufactured by Tesla. The Model S and Model X are already obtainable, while the Model 3 is available to view now in Abu Dhabi. The Model 3 is expected to retail for Dh170,000. However, while some argue that the high price tag compared to a brand new petrol or diesel car is offputting, it’s worth noting that you can’t put a price on the future of the planet. What’s more, their long-term cost is less. Research has shown that in just three years, an EV will cost you 23% less to run than a petrol motor. With that in mind, when you’re considering how much your next vehicle will cost, it’s wise to review your finance options to ensure you’re getting value for money.
Health & financial benefits
Experts state that the reason for the low uptake of electric vehicles in Dubai and the rest of the UAE is due to there being no financial benefit to consumers. This is mainly because fuel prices here are affordable. However, they are slowly creeping up and April’s prices are significantly higher than March’s. But even if this isn’t enough to persuade you, knowing that petrol and diesel cars cause global warming which contributes to poor human health, in the form of respiratory complaints, should be enough to encourage you to switch to a green vehicle.
The UAE’s roads are nowhere near green enough. It’s therefore crucial that residents take action and carefully reconsider the type of vehicle they’re driving.