Can We Rely On Electric Vehicles For Daily Rides In Iraq?

Electric vehicles have been gaining popularity worldwide due to their eco-friendliness and long-term cost savings. An electric vehicle (EV) is a type of vehicle that is powered by an electric motor rather than a traditional internal combustion engine. EVs are typically fuelled by electricity, which is stored in a battery pack that can be recharged by plugging the vehicle into an electric power source.

The last two years have been record breaking years for the global electric vehicles market. Sales doubled to 6.6 million in 2021 and hit 10 million in 2022, tripling the number of EVs on the road to 30 million at the end of last year. Many automotive multinationals are phasing out petrol-powered and diesel models in the near future including Audi and General Motors. As for Iraq, some car dealers have plans to bring EVs to the Iraqi market. However, the question arises whether EVs can be relied upon for daily rides in Iraq. This article sheds light on the challenges that the adoption of EVs faces in Iraq.

1. The availability of charging infrastructure: EVs require charging stations that rely on electric power. Iraq has been through several wars, causing damage to many electric power stations and causing electric shortages across the country. Rebuilding these power stations will take years.
2. The cost of ownership: The upfront cost of an EV is higher than a traditional gasoline-powered vehicle. However, the long-term cost of ownership can be lower due to the lower cost of electricity compared to gasoline. In Iraq, the cost of EV ownership poses a serious challenge for the 42% of the population who rely on low salaries paid by the government.
3. The availability of services is another challenge for EVs in Iraq. Iraqi drivers typically purchase spare parts in industrial areas and rely on local unauthorised service centres for maintenance. This practice could lead to a negative reputation for EVs in Iraq. It is essential for authorised service centres to educate the public on the benefits of proper maintenance and repair services to ensure the longevity and reliability of EVs.
4. The climate in Iraq also presents a challenge for EVs. The average temperature in the summer is 51°C, which can impact the performance of EVs. Low temperatures may require more energy to operate the battery and other components, and hot temperatures can reduce the range of the vehicle.
5. Distance and terrain are critical factors that affect the range of EVs. While EVs are well-suited for short trips on flat terrain, they may not be the best option for longer distances or hilly or mountainous terrain. Iraq’s diverse terrain, including deserts, hills, and mountains, makes it challenging for EVs to perform at their best.

In conclusion, adopting EVs in Iraq faces several challenges that need to be addressed through a comprehensive approach from both the government and the public. Building better roads, regulating laws to encourage people to buy eco-friendly cars, improving the electric power infrastructure, and educating the public on the benefits of proper maintenance and repair services are some of the measures that could promote the adoption of EVs in Iraq. Despite the higher upfront cost, the long-term cost savings and eco-friendliness of EVs make them a viable option for daily rides in Iraq.

About the Author

Sevar Hazim is Managing Director of AGITO and has over 7 years of experience in marketing.