Russia’s fuel crunch boosts demand for Chinese EVs, Moscow dealer says

According to Lianhe Zaobao citing Reuters, fuel shortages and surging prices across much of Russia—after escalating Ukrainian attacks on Russian energy infrastructure in recent weeks—have led to long lines at gas stations and rationing measures in most regions, prompting some drivers to shift toward electric vehicles. EN Cars, a Moscow dealer specializing in Chinese brands, said on July 1 that it is now selling two to three EVs a day versus two to three a month a few weeks ago, adding that demand has multiplied since the fuel situation became more complicated. Autostat Executive Director Sergei Udalov said sales of EVs and plug-in hybrids are rising but remain low due to insufficient inventories, and he expects a significant increase in the near term if the crisis persists, with China a main beneficiary.