UAE leads the EV and smart mobility shift

This Market Talk was written in collaboration with Mashreq as part of the ongoing Mashreq MEED partnership

Technology innovations, incentives and stronger regulations drive growth

What is the UAE doing to position itself as a regional hub for electric vehicle (EV) and autonomous vehicle (AV) growth?

The country is advancing as a regional hub for EV and AV growth, with government initiatives supporting EV infrastructure and AV testing and mapping.
The UAE’s strategic vision and environment welcomes innovation, making it an attractive destination for global players and startups to establish their presence in the country.

How are the EV export strategies of Chinese original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) impacting the competitive environment in the UAE and wider region?

The influx of new players into the segment drives competition, which benefits the customers and the industry. In the UAE’s evolving EV market, brands must continuously enhance their offerings and adapt their strategies to remain competitive.
Chevrolet, GMC and Cadillac have been present in the region for nearly a century, maintaining a strong customer focus. Beyond state-of-the-art products, we are investing in transforming the customer experience – from the initial shopping journey to long-term ownership– to reinforce our leadership in the market.

What roles do the public and private sectors play in advancing automotive innovation in the UAE?

Government policies and partnerships are driving EV adoption, autonomy and customer-focused solutions, including ownership incentives and infrastructure investments.
A key milestone is the new EV public charging tariffs, which regulate charging and expand opportunities for charge point operators, enhancing public charging capacity and addressing adoption barriers.
General Motors (GM) supports this shift by offering home charging solutions, ensuring a seamless experience for our EV customers.

What financial strategies are crucial for supporting EV and smart mobility growth in the UAE amid global economic shifts?

Important strategies include government incentives and regulatory frameworks that expand charging infrastructure across roads, homes and commercial buildings, reducing charging anxiety.
On the smart mobility front, partnerships between the public and private sectors can facilitate the development of innovative financing solutions, such as leasing and subscription models.

What can automakers do to meet UAE demand for affordable and innovative EVs?

By prioritising customer preferences, automakers can innovate in the areas of design, production and battery technology to deliver diverse, high-quality EVs.
At GM, we leverage our global production capability to offer award-winning products and meet diverse customer expectations, balancing performance, advanced technology and accessibility.
A relentless focus on design, driving experience and cutting-edge features allows GM to offer a comprehensive EV range – from the compact and sporty Chevrolet Spark electric utility vehicle to the rugged GMC Hummer EV and the luxurious Cadillac EV line-up – successfully meeting the needs of every customer.

08 April, 2025 | .By Mrudvi Bakshi