Norway Boasts 95.3% EV Adoption as Malaysia Struggles with Charger Rollout

Electric vehicles (EVs) continue their remarkable rise in Norway, capturing an astounding 94.3% of the new car market in August, setting a new global benchmark for EV adoption. This record-breaking achievement solidifies Norway's position as a leader in the transition to electric mobility.

The best selling model was the Tesla Model Y, with 2,107 units registrations, accounting for nearly 20% of all new car sales during the month. Other popular models included the Volvo EX30, Skoda Enyaq, and various Volkswagen ID. vehicles.

Norway's EV success is driven by a mix of generous tax incentives, a comprehensive charging infrastructure, and a firm commitment to reducing emissions. The country's ambitious goal of phasing out fossil fuel vehicles by 2025 is now within striking distance.

According to the Norwegian Road Federation (OFV) director, Oyvind Solberg Thorsen, "No country in the world comes close to Norway in the electric car adoption race towards achieving 100% zero-emission cars by 2025."

Meanwhile, in other parts of Europe, the EV market has encountered hurdles such as higher prices and limited infrastructure. Hybrid vehicles however have been gaining popularity as buyers decide the extra range offered.

Here in Malaysia, although EV adoption has been positive especially with new brands and models being introduced of late, the EV sales sustenance somehow proves to be a challenge. Many models are highly anticipated and snapped up on launch but seem to struggle when it comes to long term sales.

One key factor that is much needed to drive EV adoption is a stable and strong EV ecosystem which will include expansion of the charging network. However this by itself proves to be a challenge due to the additional redtapes attached in licensing the EV chargers with multiple government agencies getting involved.

Carz.com.my’s recent conversation with a large local CPO, revealed that most CPOs are feeling the crunch especially when it comes to whitepaper licensing EV chargers that was rolled out prior to the government's licensing move. According to them, some CPO will have to fork out up to a RM5 million just to fulfil all requirements to obtain Energy Commission’s (ST) licence.

This has slowed the rollout of new chargers, as funds originally allocated for expansion have been diverted to licence existing infrastructure. This backward step risks undermining the positive EV adoption trend in the country which aims for 10,000 EV chargers by 2025 and 15% EV adoption rate by 2030. 

Source: Electric Cars Report