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Russian Fuel Woes Boost EV Charging Demand
1 Jul
Summary
- EV charging stations operated by Rosatom reported a 40% utilization increase.
- Ukrainian strikes on energy infrastructure are causing fuel shortages.
- Russia's EV market is still developing but saw significant sales growth.
Electric vehicle charging stations run by Rosatom have experienced a significant uptick in usage due to widespread gasoline and diesel shortages across Russia. CEO Alexei Likhachev stated that demand at the company's over 290 charging stations rose by 40% between June 21 and June 28. These fuel issues stem from intensified Ukrainian strikes targeting Russian energy infrastructure, leading to particularly severe restrictions in southern Russia and Siberia.
Likhachev anticipates that while the current fuel crisis won't immediately transition all motorists to electric vehicles, it will undoubtedly cause many to weigh the pros and cons of internal combustion engines against electric alternatives for future car purchases. The development of Russia's electric vehicle sector, however, remains nascent due to challenges like severe weather, vast distances, and limited charging infrastructure. As of early April, Russia had approximately 208,000 electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles. Sales of plug-in hybrids from January to May saw a remarkable 125% increase compared to the same period last year.
