Emirates is actively promoting a greener future, with a surge in the availability of electric vehicles (EVs) in the market. This offers expats a diverse range of choices, catering to various preferences and lifestyles. Whether you’re seeking cutting-edge technology, luxury, or affordability, the electric cars in the UAE are suitable for every choice.
In this blog, we aim to provide a comprehensive overview of the different electric car options available to expats in the UAE. We will assist you in selecting the most suitable one for a more sustainable mode of travel.
- Types of Electric Cars
- Top Electric Car Brands in the UAE
- Factors to Consider When Buying an Electric Car in the UAE
- FAQs
Types of Electric Cars
Automobile brands in the UAE offer three main categories of Electric cars. Let’s discover the categories to help you choose the right one for your needs:
1. Battery Electric Vehicles (BEVs or EVs)
These are the most common types you must have heard of. As the name suggests, BEVs have a rechargeable battery. They do not possess a fuel tank and run entirely on electricity. BMW, Tesla and Audi are some popular manufacturers of Battery EVs.
2. Hybrid Electric Vehicles (HEVs)
Hybrid EVs have a fuel tank and an electricity-powered motor. These EVs generate electricity through regenerative braking (converting kinetic energy into electricity when driving). However, it is impossible to recharge these vehicles by plugging them in.
Toyota and Hyundai are some popular Hybrid EV manufacturers in the UAE.
3. Plug-In Hybrid Electric Vehicles (PHEVs)
Similar to hybrid EVs, PHEVs contain a fuel tank and an electric battery that generates electricity through regenerative braking. This type differs from normal Hybrid EVs in that its battery is rechargeable by the plugin.
PHEVs can travel up to 40 miles on an electric battery before converting to fuel. Bentley, Ford and Hyundai are some popular manufacturers of PHEVs in the UAE.
Top Electric Car Brands in the UAE
UAE is home to some of the world’s best automobile companies offering the best Electric cars at reasonable prices. You can easily buy electric vehicles by visiting the brands’ official sites or showrooms in your city. We have compiled the list of top automobile brands in the UAE and their best EVs to consider:
1. Tesla
Tesla has become a global leader in sustainability by introducing electrically powered zero-emission vehicles. Currently, it manufactures five electric car models in the UAE. Choose the right one by going through the details below:
| Models | Type | Features | Range (WLTP) & Top Speed | Price |
| Model S: A liftback sedan | BEV |
| Model S:
Model S Plaid:
| Model S: AED 322,990 Model S Plaid: AED 377,990 |
| Model 3: Electric Sedan | BEV |
| Rear-Wheel Drive:
Long-Range All-Wheel Drive:
Performance All-Wheel Drive:
| Rear-Wheel Drive: AED 167,990 Long-Range All-Wheel Drive: AED 197,990 Performance All-Wheel Drive: AED 219,990 |
| Model Y: Mid-size crossover SUV | BEV |
| Rear-Wheel Drive:
Long-Range All-Wheel Drive:
Performance All-Wheel Drive:
| Rear-Wheel Drive: AED 189,990 Long-Range All-Wheel Drive: AED 209,990 Performance All-Wheel Drive: AED 235,990 |
| Model X: Luxury SUV | BEV |
| Dual Motor All-Wheel Drive:
Plaid:
| Dual Motor All-Wheel Drive: AED 342,990 Plaid: AED 397,990 |
2. Chevrolet
With over 100 years of experience in the automotive industry, Chevrolet knows just what it takes to make cars that deliver superb performance. Now, they’ve brought their experience and excellence to e-vehicles
Its first electric car, the Chevrolet Bolt EV, is one of the most popular Electric cars in the UAE. Here are all the details:
| Model | Type | Features | Range (WLTP) & Top Speed | Price |
| Chevrolet Bolt EV: A Subcompact hatchback | BEV |
| Range: 417 km Top Speed: 148 km/h | AED 168,900 |
3. BMW
This brand needs no introduction as it is a premium automobile provider worldwide. BMW’s repertoire includes electric cars in various sizes, from subcompact ones to luxurious SUVs, there is something for every car lover. Among the many electric vehicles, here are our top picks:
| Models | Type | Features | Range (WLTP) & Top Speed | Price |
| BMW i5 eDrive40: A four-door stylish sedan |
|
| BEV:
Plug-in Hybrid:
| Around AED 252,702 |
| BMW i4 Gran Coupe: A liftback sedan | BEV |
| Range: 491 to 600 km Top Speed: 190 km/h | AED 265,000 |
Other Models:
|
4. Nissan
Japan’s well-renowned Nissan is no way behind in the eco-friendly revolution. Its electric vehicle, Nissan Leaf, has become a best-selling electric vehicle throughout the world. Here is what makes it so unique:
| Model | Type | Features | Range (WLTP) & Top Speed |
| Nissan Leaf: A hatchback | BEV |
| Range: 400 km Top Speed: 158 km/h |
5. Volvo
Volvo is a family of top car brands, including Polestar, Lynk and Co, Volvo Cars and more. It is a famous electric vehicle company. Here are its top products:
| Models | Type | Features | Range (WLTP) & Top Speed | Price |
| Volvo XC40 Recharge: Compact SUV | BEV |
| Range: 539 km Top Speed: 180 km/h | Starting from AED 189,900 |
| Volvo EX90: A 7-seater SUV | BEV |
| Range: 600 km Top Speed: 180 km/h | AED 289,900 |
Other Electric Cars in the UAE
Some other top brands, such as Audi, Kia, Volkswagen, Renault, Jaguar, and Porsche, offer the best electric cars in the UAE. Here are some EVs to consider buying:
| Audi E-Tron | Renault Zoe |
| Kia EV6 | Jaguar I-Pace |
| Volkswagen ID.6 | Porsche Taycan |
Factors to Consider When Buying an Electric Car in the UAE
Here is the list of top factors that you must consider before buying an electric vehicle to make the right choice:
- Range of Vehicle
- Charging Speed
- Cost
- Features
- Warranty
- Charging feasibility
FAQs
1. What Is the Best-Selling Electric Car in the UAE?
Tesla Model 3 is the top-selling electric vehicle because of its affordability and best features.
2. Is It Worth Buying an Electric Car in the UAE?
Electric cars are worth buying in the long run. They run on electricity, help you save fuel costs, are eco-friendly and contribute to sustainability.
Buying an electric car in the UAE is the best decision to take – all because it is beneficial in the long term! Choose one from our list, book a test drive and welcome your new EV to your house.
Furthermore, Dubai boasts top car rentals. Check out our complete guide to finding the perfect car for your needs.
