E-Mobility is Powering the Future of Transportation in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
The electric mobility gains momentum in Saudi Arabia, driven by advancements in technology and a growing emphasis on sustainable transportation solutions, as a part of Kingdom’s Vision 2030 aiming at improving the standard of living, reducing carbon emissions, diversifying the economy, and lessening reliance on oil by increasing the adoption of electric cars in Saudi Arabia.
As a result, Saudi automobile market is embarking on cutting-edge urban mobility solutions, including driverless metro trains, electric scooter, electric vehicles (EVs), and public transit enhancements.
Saudi Transportation and Electric Mobility
The rise of electric mobility is not just a trend but a significant step towards a more sustainable and diversified future. The acceleration of electric vehicles (EVs) adoption in the Saudi market represents a profound shift in how transportation is perceived, supported by governmental plans to install thousands of charging stations across major cities, promising for an electrified smooth driving experience and promoting widespread adoption of EVs.
As the popularity of battery-electric vehicles continues to rise in Saudi Arabia, Lucid Motors, in cooperation with Saudi Public Investment Fund (PIF), launched its manufacturing plant in the Kingdom, marking a significant milestone in the country’s EV journey. This facility produces advanced electric vehicles tailored to the needs of the Saudi market, promoting sustainable transportation, and elevating EV driving experience
Shifting towards EVs
Saudi government provides a number of incentives such as tax exemptions, subsidies, and the development of electric vehicles (EVs) charging infrastructure to encourage citizens switching to electric cars.
Hence, 7 in 10 residents of Saudi Arabia are “very” or “moderately” likely to purchase a battery-electric vehicle (BEV), according to the AlixPartners International Electric Vehicle Consumer-Sentiment Survey 2024, that included Saudi Arabia as the only Middle Eastern nation. The figure is projected to rise to 85% by 2035, indicating significant growth potential for the segment over the coming years.
For those in the Saudi Arabia who are wondering what are the advantages of driving electric cars in the Kingdom and are considering opting for electric cars, here’s our comprehensive guide to the right one for you.
Top Electric Car Brands and Models
Designed in California, Assembled in Saudi Arabia
Lucid Motors is making it easier than ever for people to buy and own the Lucid Air, America’s most awarded new luxury car and recently selected to Car and Driver’s 10Best list for 2024.
Lucid Air
Estimated Range: 710km – 839km (varies by trim)
0-100 km/h acceleration: 2.0 secs
Top speed: 270 km/h
Price: starting from 346,725 SAR
Experience a superior long-range electric sedan with Lucid Air that provides you with a unique driving experience. Thanks to its long range of 839 km, the longest range ever for EVs, you will never be “worried about charge” and you’ll enjoy your daily driving experience. Explore more, charge less with this exceptional e-car.
Take advantage of that ‘airy’ feeling as the optional panoramic Glass Canopy immerses your in the natural beauty. Feel one with the environment in an elegant eco-friendly EV.
If you are dreaming of a car equipped with luxurious and comfortable interior, Lucid Air turns your dreams into reality as its front seats are equipped with controls, in addition to heated, ventilated, and massaging features. As for passenger in the back seats, they will enjoy exceptional level of comfort, thanks to the rear leg room.
Lucid Air’s built-in Wunderbox is the best ever battery charger. With 900V+ architecture, it’s the fastest EV charging system available, providing the car with the charge required to drive 400 km in no more than 15 minutes. It’s also compatible with almost all public charging stations.
Lucid Gravity
Estimated Range: 708 km per one charge (varies by trim)
0-100 km/h acceleration: less than 3.5 secs
Top speed: 209 km/h
Price: starting from 346,725 SAR
Experience the exceptional power of Lucid Gravity and delve into the future of electric Sport Utility Vehicle (SUVs). Lucid Gravity is a culmination of meticulously detailed engineering and automotive design excellence, it provides you with the best of both worlds. Passion, power, and convenience has never been so sleek.
Lucid Gravity provides you with the opportunity to comfortably get on the road with your family members as it fits up to 7 passengers, thanks to its 3rd row of foldable seats.
You can drive for long-distances in lightning speed. Go at the speed of Lucid Gravity with ultra quick charging at up to 300kW. Explore more beaches and beyond with less charging time and more convenient control.
With a single tap, you can transform your cabin into a personal multi-sensory space, as you can customize you driving as you wish, with the elegant combination of visuals, lighting, audio, temperature, and massage features.
All-Electric Mini Cooper—Reinventing an icon
Range on a single charge: Up to 402km
0-100km/h acceleration: 6.7 seconds
Top speed: 170km/h
Price: From 220,000 SAR (Estimate)
This one might be a good contender if you are looking for a small electric car. The all-electric Mini Cooper represents a significant evolution for the iconic brand, seamlessly merging classic design with EV technology. As the Mini marks yet another generation, it continues to champion urban mobility with a compact, electric drivetrain, boasting zero emissions and the brand’s trademark go-kart feel.
The new Mini Cooper’s design philosophy, “Charismatic Simplicity,” emphasizes minimalism and modernity. The exterior features hallmark proportions, short overhangs, and large wheels, maintaining the iconic Mini silhouette. The absence of chrome and the introduction of Vibrant Silver accents highlight its contemporary look. The interior, inspired by the classic 1959 Mini, integrates advanced digital interfaces, including a high-resolution OLED display.
The Mini Cooper electric car is available in two variants: the Cooper E with 184 hp and a 305 km range, and the Cooper SE with 218 hp and a 402 km range. Both models offer brisk acceleration and excellent driving dynamics, with the SE model sprinting from 0 to 100 km/h in just 6.7 seconds. The suspension and steering are tuned for spirited handling, enhancing the driving experience.
Inside, the Cooper features a minimalist, immersive design. The new MINI Operating System 9 provides intuitive touch and voice controls, and the vehicle includes a variety of customizable driving modes, from the sporty Go-Kart mode to the efficiency-focused Green mode. The MINI Intelligent Personal Assistant allows for seamless interaction with the vehicle using voice commands.
Lamborghini Urus SE—A hybrid Super SUV
Range on a single charge: 60km (pure electric range)
0-100km/h acceleration: 3.4 seconds
Top speed: 312km/h
Price: Starts from 1,537,700 SAR
Lamborghini has once again redefined the boundaries of luxury and performance with the debut of the Urus SE, the world’s first plug-in hybrid Super SUV. Recently unveiled in Malaysia, this innovative vehicle marries a potent 4.0 V8 twin-turbo engine with an electric powertrain, generating an impressive 800 CV. What sets the Urus SE apart is its electric-only range of over 60 kilometers, alongside an 80 percent reduction in emissions compared to traditional models.
The exterior of the Urus SE is a harmonious blend of aggression and sophistication. New design elements such as the hood, LED matrix headlights, and a redesigned rear diffuser not only enhance the vehicle’s aesthetics, but also improve its aerodynamic efficiency.
Inside, the Urus SE is a sanctuary of modern technology and luxury. The cabin features a 12.3-inch touchscreen interface that integrates seamlessly with advanced driving aids and infotainment systems.
On the road, the Urus SE showcases an electric torque vectoring system and an electronic rear differential, ensuring power is efficiently distributed for maximum stability and control. It achieves a top speed of 312 km/h and sprints from 0 to 100 km/h in a mere 3.4 seconds, illustrating that hybrid technology can indeed coexist with supercar performance.
Alfa Romeo Tonale—A leap into the future
Range on a single charge: 61km (pure electric range)
0-100km/h acceleration: 8.8 seconds
Top speed: 206 km/h
Price: Starts at 210,000 SAR
Alfa Romeo’s 2024 Tonale marks a significant step in the brand’s evolution towards electrification and connectivity. This compact SUV marries classic Alfa Romeo design with advanced technology, targeting both performance enthusiasts and eco-conscious drivers.
The Tonale’s powertrain features a plug-in hybrid (PHEV) system that combines a 1.3-liter turbocharged engine with a 90 kW electric motor. This setup delivers an impressive 285 horsepower and provides up to 38 miles of electric range. The PHEV Q4 all-wheel-drive system ensures optimal performance, merging efficiency with the brand’s sporty heritage.
A groundbreaking aspect of the Tonale is its integration of Non-Fungible Token (NFT) technology, which means that it offers a blockchain-based digital certificate. This innovative feature tracks the vehicle’s life cycle, potentially enhancing its residual value by providing a secure record of maintenance and ownership.
Inside the Tonale, the focus on technology continues. The latest Uconnect 5 system is displayed on a 10.25-inch touchscreen, offering seamless wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa integration.
The Tonale is available in three versions: Sprint, Ti, and Veloce. Each variant offers a unique blend of luxury and performance, with high-quality materials and Italian craftsmanship evident throughout the vehicle.
Mercedes-Benz G 58O—A fusion of luxury and innovation
Range on a single charge: 525km
0-100km/h acceleration: 4.7 seconds
Top speed: 180km/h
Price: Starts at 904,500 SAR
The Mercedes-Benz G 580 is a great showcase of the German brand’s commitment to combining luxury with cutting-edge technology. This new iteration of the iconic G-Class introduces an electrifying twist, merging robust off-road capabilities with sophisticated EV technology.
At the heart of the G 580 is a powerful hybrid powertrain, blending a V8 engine with an electric motor to deliver a seamless driving experience. This combination ensures impressive performance without compromising on efficiency. The G 580 produces a total of 469 horsepower and 1164 Nm of torque, allowing for dynamic acceleration and superior handling.
The G 580’s design maintains the classic G-Class aesthetic, characterized by its boxy shape and distinctive silhouette. However, it incorporates modern touches such as LED headlights and a refined interior equipped with the latest infotainment system. The cabin is a sanctuary of luxury, featuring high-quality materials and advanced tech to enhance comfort and convenience.
Whether navigating urban streets or conquering rugged terrain, the vehicle’s advanced suspension system and all-wheel drive ensure a smooth and controlled ride. The inclusion of various driving modes allows drivers to customize their experience based on the driving conditions.
The hybrid system not only reduces emissions but also enhances fuel efficiency, making it a more eco-friendly option for luxury SUV enthusiasts. This aligns with Mercedes-Benz’s broader commitment to reducing its environmental footprint without compromising on automotive performance.
Tesla Model Y
Range on a single charge: 455km-514km
0-100km/h acceleration: 3.7 seconds
Top speed: 241km/h
Price:
Long Range All-Wheel Drive 240,000 SAR (Est)
Performance All-Wheel Drive 270,000 SAR (Est)
The name Tesla is almost a synonym for electric cars. The Tesla Model Y is one of the best-selling electric cars worldwide with recorded 1,211,601 registrations across 2023.
This electric car is the newest member of the Tesla family and made its debut in the Saudi Arabia at the end of 2023. This compact crossover SUV can comfortably seat up to seven passengers. With its dual-motor all-wheel drive system, the Model Y can reach a thrilling top speed of 241 km/h.
The interior features an impressive 15-inch touchscreen, a stunning panoramic glass roof, and a spacious cargo area. Meanwhile, it comes with a variety of advanced safety and convenience features, including Autopilot, Full Self-Driving Capability, and Sentry Mode.
Chevrolet Blazer
Range on a single charge: 521km
0-100km/h acceleration: 7 seconds
Top speed: 250km/h
Price: Starting 190,000 SAR
The Chevrolet Blazer received a subtle facelift to refresh its look in 2023. Its all-wheel-drive system delivers 308 hp and 365 Nm of torque. While its 0-100km/h acceleration seems quite slow at 7 seconds when compared to other cars on the list, it still delivers an impressive 250km/h top speed.
The 2024 Chevrolet Blazer electric SUV comes loaded with a 4.2-inch driver information display screen, an infotainment system that includes an 8-inch touch screen with Bluetooth, Android Auto, and Apple CarPlay, 6 speakers, and stylish 18-inch alloy wheels.
On the safety front, standard features include ABS, stability control, traction control, and front, side, and knee airbags. A higher version offers tempting options such as adaptive cruise control, leather seats, a premium Bose audio system complete with a subwoofer, a panoramic sunroof, a surround vision camera, and 20-inch or 21-inch alloy wheels, as well as convenient wireless charging.
Porsche Taycan
Range on a single charge: 484km
0-100km/h acceleration: 2.8
Top speed: 260km/h
Price: Starting at 465,600 SAR
Buy/Order
The Porsche Taycan is a stunning electric car and has been making waves in the markets. With a 79.2 kWh battery, the Taycan can recharge to 80 percent in just 22.5 minutes.
Its powerful performance features a dual-motor all-wheel-drive system that delivers an exhilarating 761 hp and 1,050 Nm of torque. This allows for super speedy acceleration and a top speed of 260km/h. The interior boasts a sleek 16.8-inch digital instrument cluster and a 10.9-inch touchscreen, along with a Burmester sound system. It also offers safety and convenience features such as adaptive air suspension, Porsche Dynamic Chassis Control, and lane keep assist.
BMW iX
Range on a single charge: 425-630km
0-100km/h acceleration: 4.6 seconds
Top speed: 200km/h
Price: 476,445-631,695 SAR
If you are wondering which is the best electric SUV in Saudi Arabia, the BMW iX is probably the answer. The iX is an exciting and futuristic electric SUV, and it’s set to make its debut in the KSA in 2024. Two models of this electric car are available in the KSA—the iX xDrive40 and the iX xDrive50. In 40 minutes, this electric car can be recharged to 80 percent.
Powering the iX is a robust dual-motor all-wheel drive system that delivers a thrilling 500 hp and 765 Nm of torque. The interior features a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, a 14.9-inch touchscreen, and a panoramic glass roof. It also comes loaded with a variety of safety and convenience features, including adaptive cruise control, a parking assistant, and even gesture control.
Kia EV6
Range on a single charge: 528km
0-100km/h acceleration: 3.5 seconds
Top speed: 185km/h
Price: Starting at 234,000 SAR (Est)
The Kia EV6 offers a spacious cabin and a wide sunroof for a fun and practical driving experience. It also comes with a 77.4kWh battery while its all-wheel-drive system delivers 225 hp and 605 Nm of torque.
The interior features a dual display: a 12-inch cluster display and a 12-inch center information display. The seats are built for comfort with options like temperature controls and 2nd-row seatback folding. It also features a variety of safety and convenience features, including Remote Smart Parking Assist, Intelligent Front-lighting System, Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist, and Safe Exit Assist.
BYD Han
Range on a single charge: 521km
0-100km/h acceleration: 3.9 seconds
Top speed: 25km/h
Price: 234, 900 SAR
The BYD Han is a premium electric sedan from the Chinese brand BYD and was launched in the Saudi Arabia in 2023. With its sleek and elegant design, the BYD Han electric car blends luxury with cutting-edge technology. Its powerful dual-motor all-wheel drive system delivers a thrilling performance with 494 hp and 680 Nm of torque. Most impressively, it can recharge to 80 percent in just 25 minutes.
The interior features a stunning 15.6-inch touchscreen, a digital instrument cluster, and a convenient wireless charging pad. It is also equipped with a host of safety and convenience features, including adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and blind spot monitoring, making every drive a comfortable and secure experience.
Nissan Ariya
Range on a single charge: 483km
0-100km/h acceleration: 5.1 seconds
Top speed: 200km
Price: Starting at 234,000 SAR (Est)
The Nissan Ariya comes with a selection of four trim levels, with two battery options and either a single-motor front-wheel-drive format or a more powerful twin-motor four-wheel-drive layout. The Horsepower ranges from 217 hp to 306 hp. The fast charging offers up to 375km in 30 minutes.
The car is packed with a range of high-tech. One notable feature of the Ariya is the ProPILOT parking system, which allows the car to park itself. Meanwhile, the intelligent rearview mirror can “see through” what’s blocking your view. This fully electric car also offers features like Electric Door Mirrors, Central Locking, AUX, and ABS (Anti-lock Brake System), among others. The interior features dual 12.3-inch displays and a six-speaker audio system, as well as a wireless charger.
FAQ
Are there any electric cars in the Saudi Arabi?
Yes, there are electric cars in Saudi Arabia, and the Saudi government began promoting electric cars several years ago, by providing many incentives, such as exempting electric cars from customs duties, and granting tax exemptions to companies that buy electric cars.
Recently, Saudi Arabia witnessed rapid growth in the number of electric cars, reaching about 100,000 cars in 2023, and this figure is expected to increase in the coming years.
Among the most prominent brands of electric cars available in Saudi Arabia are:
- Lucid
- Tesla
- BMW
- Mercedes Benz
- Volkswagen
- Kia
- Hyundai
There are also many Saudi companies working on developing and manufacturing electric cars, such as Lucid and Revali.
The Saudi government seeks to increase the number of electric cars in the country to 300,000 by 2030, as part of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman’s plan to transition to a green and sustainable economy.
Is there any charging infrastructure in Saudi Arabia?
Following the recent announcement of the joint-venture between the Public Investment Fund (PIF) and the Saudi Electricity Company (SEC), the Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Company launches “EVIQ” to support electric vehicle (EV) adoption in the Kingdom by building best-in-class infrastructure, and creating a nationwide network of fast-charging hubs, consisting of with the 5,000 electric vehicle charging devices in 1,000 strategic locations across KSA.
There are many stations and charging points available throughout the Kingdom. These stations provide fast chargers and AC chargers, which facilitates and eases the process of charging electric cars in Saudi Arabia. In addition, smartphone applications are developed to make it easier for EVs owners to find the nearest charging station and control the charging process.
Below is a list of some of the charging stations and points available in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia:
Public charging stations
- King Khalid International Airport, Riyadh
- King Abdulaziz International Airport, Jeddah
- King Fahd International Airport, Dammam
- SASCO station at King Khalid International Airport, Riyadh
- Charging point in front of the Park Hyatt Hotel, Riyadh
- SASCO station at King Abdulaziz International Airport, Jeddah
- Charging point in front of the Hilton Hotel, Jeddah
- SASCO station at King Fahd International Airport, Dammam
- Charging point in front of Crowne Plaza Hotel, Dammam
Private charging points
- Four Seasons Hotel, Riyadh
- The Ritz-Carlton, Riyadh
- St. Regis Hotel, Riyadh
- Park Hyatt Hotel, Jeddah
- Hilton Hotel, Jeddah
- Crowne Plaza Hotel, Dammam
- Sheraton Hotel, Dammam
- Al Massi Hotel, Dammam
- SASCO gas station, Riyadh
- SASCO gas station, Jeddah
- SASCO gas station, Dammam
Below are some companies that provide home charging services for electric cars in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia:
- SASCO Petroleum Services Company
- Petromin Petroleum Services Company
- Saudi Aramco Petroleum Services Company
Are electric cars safe?
“EVs are inevitably safer than their conventional counterparts. With fewer moving components and the absence of flammable fuel, EVs are less prone to the common safety concerns of conventional vehicles.”
Electric Cars, Safer in car accidents
Despite the type of vehicles, regardless of having an internal combustion engine or an electric motor, cars are fatal machines. Perhaps, the fact that conventional internal combustion-engine vehicles have a full tank distinctly shows that electric cars do not carry any gasoline, and makes them safer than fossil-fueled cars. The lithium-ion batteries, however, have the tendency and asperity to catch fire and some characteristics of an explosive. But, compared to gas vehicles, there is a very low risk of this occasion, in fact, the technology for car batteries is constantly changing as companies try to develop ways to reduce fire-resistance.
Besides, the substantial weight of electric car has a positive effect on safety. EVs, having installed the principal rechargeable energy storage system, are typically heavier than internal combustion engine vehicles. The basic physics is clear; if two vehicles of different mass collide, the heavier one will get less deceleration than the lighter vehicle. In otherwise, occupants in the heavier vehicle are at low risk in a collision than that of lighter vehicles.
Do EVs need more maintenance compared to conventional cars?
Less moving parts means fewer maintenance requirements. Conventional vehicles are prone to breakdown. Though both EVs and internal combustion engine vehicles require routine maintenance, the intervals for EV maintenance is far less than that of conventional vehicles. With only about 20 moving parts in the drivetrain of an electric cars compared to 2000 in a conventional vehicle subject to make and model, electric vehicle maintenance should be fairly simple compared to its conventional counterparts.
What is the best electric car in the Saudi Arabia?
Electric vehicles are the future, and there is a high interest in EVs among Saudi consumers. The best car brand in the Saudi Arabia is Lucid Air, America’s most awarded new luxury car and recently selected to Car and Driver’s 10Best list for 2024.
What is the cheapest electric car in the Saudi Arabia?
The list of the cheapest cars for sale in the Saudi Arabia includes several Chinese brands like Chery. The Chery Tiggo E starts at 98,000 SAR. It is a compact front-wheel drive car (FWD) with a range of up to 315 kilometers per a single charge.
Which is better hybrid or full-electric car?
The Full-electric car is much better than the hybrid as the latter still needs petrol to work. The fully-electric car is more economical than the hybrid one as we regularly need to replace the oil and many other parts.
Are EVs more economical than the petrol or diesel cars?
The short answer is yes, electric cars in Saudi Arabia are more economical in the long run.
This is because leading electric cars do not consume fuel, and therefore do not require the purchase of fuel, oil and filter changes, air filters, and other regular maintenance. Electric cars are also more energy efficient than gasoline or diesel cars, resulting in lower operating costs.
Here are some factors that make an electric car more economical in the long run:
- Low operating cost: Electric cars do not consume fuel, and therefore do not require the purchase of fuel, oil and filter changes, air filters, and other regular maintenance. Electric cars are also more energy efficient than gasoline or diesel cars, resulting in lower operating costs.
- Government exemptions and incentives: Many governments around the world offer tax exemptions and other incentives to citizens and residents who purchase electric cars.
- Lower maintenance costs: Electric cars require less maintenance than gasoline or diesel cars, as there is no combustion system, oil, filter or other components that need to be changed on a regular basis.
- Residual value: Electric cars tend to maintain their residual value better than gasoline or diesel cars. This is because electric cars do not have many moving parts, making them less susceptible to damage or breakdown.
How long does an electric car battery last?
In general, an electric car battery has a lifespan of about 8 to 10 years. In that time, you can expect about 1,500 to 2,500 charging cycles. Capacity decreases with age from 70 to 80 percent of the original value.
However, there are many factors that can affect the life of an electric vehicle battery, including:
- Battery type: Lithium-ion batteries have a longer life than lead-acid batteries.
- Using method: The way you use an electric car affects the battery life, as fast driving and excessive charging shorten the battery life.
- Temperatures: High temperatures cause the battery to wear out faster.
How much does it cost to charge electric cars in Saudi Arabia?
The cost of charging an electric car in Saudi Arabia varies depending on the type of charger used and the battery capacity. In general, the cost of charging an electric car ranges from 10 to 20 SAR per kilowatt hour.
As for the cost of charging an electric car at home, it depends on the cost of electricity in your home. For example, if the cost of electricity in your home is 0.17 SAR per kWh, the cost of charging an electric car with a battery capacity of 64 kWh will be about 10.88 SAR.
As for the cost of charging electric cars in Saudi Arabia at public charging stations, it varies depending on the type of charger used. For example, the cost of charging an electric car on a 100 kW fast charger is about 20 SAR per kWh.
Is it allowed to import electric cars in Saudi Arabia?
Yes, it is allowed to import electric cars in Saudi Arabia, but there are some conditions that must be adhered to for the vehicles, which are:
- The electric car must comply with Saudi standard specifications, in terms of withstanding high temperatures and batteries.
- The electric car must have an approval certificate from the Saudi Standards, Metrology and Quality Organization.
- The importer must be registered in the Saudi customs system.
It should be noted that the Saudi government offers many incentives to citizens and residents who import electric cars, such as exempting electric cars from customs duties, and granting tax exemptions
