Deep Dive: How Norway became the world’s first fully electric car market

Norway has set an ambitious goal to ensure that all new cars sold by 2025 are zero-emission vehicles. This target is part of Norway’s broader strategy to combat climate change and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. The country has already made significant progress, with electric vehicles accounting for 88.9% of all new passenger cars sold in 2024. This remarkable achievement is the result of a comprehensive package of incentives and policies designed to promote the adoption of zero-emission vehicles.

Norway’s success can be attributed to several key factors. Firstly, the country has implemented a range of financial incentives to make electric vehicles more affordable. These include exemptions from value-added tax (VAT) and purchase taxes, which significantly reduces the upfront cost of an EV. Additionally, EV owners benefit from lower toll road charges, reduced ferry fares, and access to bus lanes, making electric vehicles a more attractive option for consumers.

Fast-charging stations have been established along all major roads, ensuring that EV owners can easily charge their vehicles during long-distance trips. Legislation has also been introduced to guarantee the right to install charging points in apartment buildings, further supporting the widespread adoption of electric vehicles.

Other countries can learn from Norway’s experience and implement similar policies to promote the adoption of electric vehicles. One key lesson is the importance of financial incentives. By reducing the upfront cost of EVs through tax exemptions and subsidies, governments can make electric vehicles more accessible to a broader range of consumers.