Electric vehicles (EVs) are emerging as a promising alternative to internal combustion engine vehicles in the Gulf region, despite the area’s notoriously harsh climate, which includes extreme heat, high humidity, and frequent dust storms. These environmental conditions pose unique challenges to EV performance, particularly affecting battery efficiency, thermal management, and durability. Lithium-ion batteries, which power most EVs, operate best in moderate temperatures, and in Gulf summers—where temperatures can soar beyond 50°C—batteries are prone to overheating, faster degradation, and reduced driving range, especially when the air conditioning system is heavily used, drawing power directly from the battery. Example, Tesla
Tesla’s Model 3 and Model Y
Example, Tesla’s Model 3 and Model Y vehicles have been deployed in Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) fleet and have performed well under such conditions, thanks to advanced battery cooling systems and software that regulates power use during peak heat. However, even with these features, the region’s fine dust can infiltrate vehicle components and compromise the electronics and motors unless the vehicle has a high ingress protection (IP) rating and specialized filters.
Charging infrastructure
Charging infrastructure is another consideration; in intense heat, fast-charging stations must be equipped with adequate cooling and UV-resistant materials to remain operational. Gulf countries such as the UAE and Saudi Arabia are responding with investments in EV-specific infrastructure, including shaded charging bays, cooled parking spaces, and grid upgrades.
“Automakers are also increasingly testing their EV models in Middle Eastern environments to ensure regional compatibility. Overall, while the Gulf’s extreme climate does introduce operational challenges for EVs, advancements in vehicle technology, proactive infrastructure development, and strategic government support are making it possible for electric vehicles to not only survive but thrive in one of the hottest regions on Earth”.
هل 2025 هو عام السيارات الكهربائية؟ أفضل الإصدارات حتى الآن – GearsME
