After decades of anticipation, electric vehicles are becoming the mainstream – as more hit the roads globally, despite bumps along the way.
EVs are on the rise, driven by greater affordability, environmental concerns and a shift in consumer preferences.
But with geopolitics, infrastructure and misconceptions still in the mix, what does the future hold?
In this episode of the Business Extra podcast, host Cody Combs dives into the accelerating world of EVs. He is joined by Hasan Nergiz, managing director of Al Futtaim Electric Mobility Company, and Aravind CJ, a partner at global consultancy Roland Berger, which recently released its most recent EV Charging Index that takes an in-depth look at electric vehicles and their charging infrastructure.
The conversation explores how EV adoption is progressing in the UAE and beyond, the crucial role of charging infrastructure, and the policies shaping the industry.
Europe’s rearming plan
- Suspend strict budget rules to allow member countries to step up defence spending
- Create new "instrument" providing €150 billion of loans to member countries for defence investment
- Use the existing EU budget to direct more funds towards defence-related investment
- Engage the bloc's European Investment Bank to drop limits on lending to defence firms
- Create a savings and investments union to help companies access capital
The specs
Engine: 4.0-litre flat-six
Torque: 450Nm at 6,100rpm
Transmission: 7-speed PDK auto or 6-speed manual
Fuel economy, combined: 13.8L/100km
On sale: Available to order now
COMPANY PROFILE
Name: Almnssa
Started: August 2020
Founder: Areej Selmi
Based: Gaza
Sectors: Internet, e-commerce
Investments: Grants/private funding
Abu Dhabi GP schedule
Friday: First practice - 1pm; Second practice - 5pm
Saturday: Final practice - 2pm; Qualifying - 5pm
Sunday: Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix (55 laps) - 5.10pm
THE LIGHT
Director: Tom Tykwer
Starring: Tala Al Deen, Nicolette Krebitz, Lars Eidinger
Rating: 3/5