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Mohammed Maktari, CEO, NIO MENA:
The global EV share is projected to grow to 24% in 2025 and 26.7% in 2026. In the following years, this is predicted to rise to 42% in 2030, before hitting 64.1% in 2035, and 83% in 2040, as citied by Auto Vista.
Electric mobility has now moved beyond the idea of the future of transport. By 2026, EVs will be firmly embedded in the mainstream, driven by tangible technological improvements, stronger ecosystem integration, and intensifying market competition. The coming year will reflect a clear shift from early adoption to widespread acceptance and will be shaped by several defining trends.
1. Deeper EV Adoption Across Global Markets
While China and Europe continue to lead in EV penetration, 2026 will witness accelerated adoption in emerging regions. Markets across the Middle East and Africa are expected to enter more rapid growth phases as financing options improve and cost-effective models become more widely available. EVs are steadily transitioning from a premium offering to a rational, economically sound choice for everyday drivers worldwide.
To understand the momentum in the Gulf, a study by Roland and Berger suggests that the GCC is emerging as one of the fastest growing EV regions, with EV sales penetration doubling from about 2% to roughly 4% in 2024. This growing confidence is reinforced by the fact that 91% of current BEV owners in the GCC would consider an EV as their next car, with the UAE peaking at 94%.
Driving habits also signal strong engagement since one in three GCC EV owners now drive more than 20,000 kilometres annually, matching mature European markets.
2. Smarter, Faster and More Seamless Charging
Charging infrastructure, which has long been a bottleneck, will advance further in 2026, even now we are beginning to see more ultra-fast charging hubs appear across key urban centres and intercity routes. Interoperable networks will allow users to charge without navigating multiple apps or payment systems. Battery swapping services also significantly enhance convenience.
Roland and Berger further suggests that, in the region, user satisfaction is already high, setting a strong foundation for 2026. Charging satisfaction rates have reached 95 percent in the UAE, 94 percent in Saudi Arabia and 97 percent in Qatar. This level of trust shows that charging has already become a predictable and reliable part of EV ownership for many in the GCC.
3. AI-Powered Intelligence Enhances the EV Experience
Artificial intelligence will play a central role in both driving and ownership. Predictive maintenance, automated charging schedules, AI-optimized routing, and next-generation cabin assistants will elevate convenience and personalization. Advanced in-vehicle AI will also improve energy efficiency by adjusting climate control, driving modes, and regenerative braking in real time based on driving patterns and environmental conditions.
4. EV Design Advances Beyond Traditional Car Architecture
EV design will evolve rapidly. Expect sleeker exteriors, minimalist interiors, and multi-functional cabins that function more like mobile living spaces rather than conventional vehicles. Greater modularity and flexibility will define the next generation of EV aesthetics and usability.
5. More EVs Engineered for Extreme Weather Conditions
Automakers are increasingly prioritizing climate-adapted designs. In 2026, more models will include features such as heat-pump HVAC systems, enhanced insulation, and battery chemistries optimized for hot and cold environments. These enhancements will support more consistent range performance, particularly in regions with temperature extremes.