With nearly 90% of new car sales being electric by 2024, Norway is leading the global automotive revolution and is on the verge of phasing out gasoline and diesel vehicles entirely.
Have you ever imagined a country where virtually all new cars are electric? It may seem like a distant future, but in Norway, it’s almost a reality. In 2017, the country set an audacious goal: to ensure that by 2025, 100% of vehicles sold would be electric or plug-in hybrids. And guess what’s amazing? They’re about to achieve that goal!
The ambitious goal: 100% electric cars by 2025
While many countries were still discussing the transition from diesel to gasoline, Norway had already envisioned a future emission-free. In 2017, only 5,1% of cars sold in Spain were electrified, while the Norwegians planned to revolutionize the automotive market. With a clear vision and effective strategies, the country has achieved impressive figures: by 2024, almost 90% of cars sold will be electric.
Why is Norway leading the electric car market?
The secret lies in the combination of smart incentives and collective awareness. In Norway, buying an electric car is cheaper, thanks to exemption from VAT (25%) and import duties. The government has invested heavily in building a robust infrastructure, with charging stations spread throughout the country.
- All BYD electric cars will feature cutting-edge autonomous driving technology
- BYD revolutionizes the market and puts autonomous driving in all its electric cars at no extra cost!
- Charging electric vehicles on the go — engineers model grid demand challenges
- Moura launches electric bicycle with 100 km of autonomy and maximum speed of 32 km/h in the range of R$ 7 thousand
Other important point is the mentality of the Norwegians. With a focus on sustainability, the population has embraced the idea of reducing CO2 emissions, realizing that electric cars are not only better for the environment, but also for the wallet.
The numbers don't lie: The electric age has arrived
Want proof? By November 2024, 93,6% of cars sold in Norway were fully electric. For every gasoline or diesel car sold, hundreds of electric cars hit the streets. That same year, the country recorded a historic milestone: the number of electric cars surpassed the number of gasoline vehicles for the first time.
And what about plug-in hybrids? In Norway, they have a tiny market share, accounting for just 2,7% of sales in 2024. The country has chosen to jump straight into the future, leaving aside intermediate solutions.
The economic and environmental impact
The transition to electric cars has brought clear benefits. CO2 emissions have plummeted, helping the country meet its climate goals. However, this revolution has not come without challenges. Tax exemptions have created a revenue shortfall, forcing the government to adjust its policies to maintain fiscal balance.
Still, the long-term strategy has proven to be a good one. Encouraging the adoption of electric cars has helped transform Norway into a global example of sustainable mobility.
Lessons from Norway for the World
What can the rest of the world learn from Norway? First, that well-planned public policies make all the difference. Second, that environmental education is crucial to engaging the population. And lastly, that the electric future is within our reach — all we need is political will and determination.
So if a small Scandinavian country has managed to transform its vehicle fleet in such a short space of time, why can’t others do the same? After all, the future doesn’t wait. And Norway is already at the finish line, while the rest of the world is still warming up its engines.