Until now, the Norwegians dominated in terms of purchased electric cars. This year, however, the situation has changed as Germany has overtaken them. Experts point out that the reason for such a turn of events is the change in Norwegian policy in the context of electric cars.
Over 70 thousand new cars
According to the European Vehicle Manufacturers Association (ACEA), over 2018 vehicles were sold at the very beginning of 70. electric cars across Europe. It is worth mentioning that since 2010 alone, more than 500 vehicles have been added to this type of vehicle. The statistics also include hybrid drives. Electric cars powered only by electric motors, more than 32 were purchased in January this year, which is also an amazing result.
Electric cars - the future of the automotive industry?
The big four
The countries in which such vehicles are most willingly purchased include, first of all, Germany, Norway, France and the United Kingdom. It is not without significance that they are inhabited by the most affluent Europeans. In total, more than 70 percent of electric cars in 2018 were registered in these countries.
The amazing result of the Germans
Even in January, the Norwegians most often bought the so-called elbile, which they acquired a total of over 33. In the same period, the Germans bought just over 17,5 thousand of such vehicles. However, since then the situation has changed dramatically, and the reasons for this state of affairs experts have been finding in the policy of the Norwegian government. It is worth mentioning that back in 2017, Norway was the first country where sales of new electric cars accounted for over 50% of the automotive market.
. Additional fees
First of all, it is alleged that the exemption from road tolls, which was available to owners of elbil. It is also expected that lower demand for such cars results from the announcement of the introduction of the so-called Tesla Tax. It should be noted that the definition of an electric car is quite broad. It includes vehicles such as fully electric, fuel cell-powered, plug-in hybrids and machines equipped with a range extender.
If the demand for such cars in Norway continues to decline, it may turn out that other countries will overtake it. The electric car market is constantly developing and as it turns out, not only the advantages of their use and environmental awareness have an impact on the volume of demand. The government's policy is equally important, as its actions significantly affect the sale of vehicles equipped with electric drives.