Norway Leads Global Transition to Electric Vehicles with Bold Policies
Nearly 90% of new cars sold in Norway are electric, driven by incentives, infrastructure, and a commitment to emissions-free goals by 2025.
- Norway has achieved a remarkable 88.9% electric vehicle (EV) share of new car sales in 2024, far surpassing the global average of 18% in 2023.
- Government incentives, including tax breaks, toll exemptions, and access to bus lanes, have played a key role in promoting EV adoption, though some perks are now being scaled back.
- The country benefits from a renewable energy grid powered primarily by hydropower, making EV charging both cost-effective and environmentally friendly.
- Critics argue Norway's model is not easily replicable elsewhere due to its small population, high wealth levels, and unique energy infrastructure.
- Despite its success, Norway has not banned combustion engine vehicles but has made them prohibitively expensive through taxes, leading to a steep decline in their sales.