Released On 14th Jan 2025

Driving Into the Future

What Norway’s EV Success Can Teach the World

Norway, a nation of just 5.5 million people, is setting the gold standard for electric vehicle (EV) adoption. With nearly 9 out of 10 new cars sold being electric, the country is poised to become the first to phase out the sale of new fossil-fuel cars. This milestone represents not only a triumph for sustainability but also a model for how policy, incentives, and infrastructure can transform an industry.

A Three-Decade Journey

What sets Norway apart is not just its current EV statistics but the long-term vision that led to them. Back in the 1990s, Norway began taxing petrol and diesel cars heavily while exempting electric vehicles from VAT and import duties. Over time, they layered on perks such as free parking, discounted tolls, and access to bus lanes. These incentives made EVs an economically compelling choice for consumers.

Fast forward to today, and those policies have borne fruit. Electric cars now outnumber petrol-powered vehicles on Norwegian roads. In 2024, 88.9% of all new cars sold were EVs, a leap from 82.4% in 2023. By comparison, the UK saw 20% of its new car sales come from EVs, and the U.S. just 8%. Norway’s success is a testament to how consistent, forward-thinking policies can drive substantial change.

A Winning Combination… Incentives and Infrastructure

Key to Norway’s success is its comprehensive EV ecosystem. From tax exemptions to a well-developed charging network, every element has been designed to make the transition seamless. Norway boasts more than 27,000 public charging points, equating to 447 chargers per 100,000 people. For comparison, the UK has just 89 chargers per 100,000 people.

This extensive charging infrastructure helps drivers like Ståle Fyen, a recent EV adopter, overcome common concerns like range anxiety. “You just have to change your mindset and charge when you can, not when you need to,” Fyen explains. The government’s investment in charging stations underscores their commitment to enabling the EV transition.

Lessons for the UK and Beyond

What can countries like the UK learn from Norway?

Long-Term Vision… Norway’s policies have been consistent for decades. Governments must prioritise sustainability and resist the temptation for short-term policy shifts.

Incentives Matter… Tax breaks, subsidies, and other financial incentives can make EVs a financially viable option for more people.

Infrastructure Is Essential… A reliable, accessible charging network is critical for widespread EV adoption. Countries need to invest heavily in this area to alleviate consumer concerns.

Tailored Strategies… While Norway’s approach is impressive, it’s important to adapt policies to local conditions. As Christina Bu of the Norwegian EV Association notes, each country must find solutions that fit its unique context.

The Road Ahead

Norway’s success story proves that the EV revolution is achievable with the right mix of policies, infrastructure, and public buy-in. As the UK aims for its own EV milestones, there’s much to learn from the Nordic nation’s journey. While replicating Norway’s model in its entirety may not be feasible for all countries, adopting key elements could accelerate the global shift toward greener transportation.

At Okee, we’re inspired by Norway’s example and are committed to supporting sustainable practices within the automotive industry. Whether through premium service for EV owners or exploring new avenues to champion green technologies, we’re excited to be part of this transformative era.