Luxury EVs power the UAE’s green shift

For decades, the luxury automobile has been more than just a mode of transport – it has been a rolling statement of power, prestige, and presence. Whether it was the imposing silhouette of a flagship sedan or the thunderous growl of a finely tuned V12 supercar, every detail was designed to signal the arrival of its driver.

The deep, resonant exhaust note, the mechanical symphony of a high-performance engine, and the perfectly weighted shift of an expertly engineered gearbox weren’t just part of the driving experience – they defined it. A luxury car wasn’t simply driven, it was felt and was a reflection of status as much as performance.

Now, as the world moves toward electrification, the very essence of luxury motoring is evolving in ways few could have imagined. Naysayers once claimed that the rise of electric vehicles would signal the end of traditional luxury motoring, stripping it of the visceral thrills and drama that defined the experience.

However, with the world’s most prestigious automotive marques embracing electrification, that perception has been upended. Far from diluting the essence of luxury, EVs are redefining it – delivering instant torque, near-silent refinement, and cutting-edge technology while maintaining the artistry, exclusivity, and prestige that discerning car buyers expect.

All this, while allowing them to indulge in high-performance luxury with the added satisfaction of making a more sustainable choice. According to Hamid Haqparwar, CEO of AGMC, the official importer of Rolls-Royce, BMW, and Mini for Dubai, Sharjah, and the Northern Emirates, consumer preferences are shifting, with increasing demand for EVs in the luxury category that offer both high-performance and sustainable mobility. “Traditionally, luxury cars in the UAE have been associated with powerful combustion engines, but that mindset is shifting,” says Haqparwar.

EVs are no longer a niche alternative to traditional motoring but the driving force behind the industry’s future. By 2035, they are projected to account for over 65 per cent of new car sales, pushing the market’s value to a staggering $2.3 trillion.

However, the rate and nature of this transition differ across regions. While affordability is the primary driver of EV adoption in many markets, the UAE tells a different story – here, electrification is not just about sustainability; it’s about reimagining luxury.

The premium segment is setting the pace, with flagship electric sedans, high-performance SUVs, and cutting-edge sports cars leading the charge. “While traditional luxury cars remain a status symbol, more buyers are exploring EVs thanks to their sustainability benefits, driving performance, increased range, and cutting-edge technology.

Interestingly, many of our customers are drawn to electric vehicles not just for their sustainability but also for their exhilarating driving experience,” Haqparwar adds.

With instantaneous torque at their disposal, electric motors deliver breathtaking acceleration – often outpacing even the most powerful V8s and V12s.

Some high-performance EVs now hit 0-100 kph in under three seconds, a feat once reserved for the world’s most elite fossil fuel-powered supercars. But speed isn’t the only advantage. Without the vibrations of a traditional engine, the ride is smoother, while the low-slung battery placement improves handling and stability.

The result? A driving experience that feels both exhilarating and effortless – exactly what modern luxury should be.

The UAE has seen a steady rise in demand for luxury electric vehicles as global and regional trends align with local ambitions for sustainability, paired with a desire for exclusivity and high-end craftsmanship.

“The Middle East’s EV market, though in its infancy, is set to grow substantially, valued at an estimated $54 billion by 2035 and potentially representing nearly two-thirds of new car sales.

The UAE itself is making significant strides in EV adoption, with penetration levels now at 3 per cent of new car sales, ahead of many other countries in the region. However, there is still substantial room for growth,” says Haqparwar.

Luxury EVs: Where prestige meets sustainability

• Lightning-fast acceleration: The days of slow electric cars are long gone. Some high-end EVs like the Tesla Model S Plaid and the Rimac Nevera can go from 0-100 kph in under two seconds – faster than most supercars.

• A ride like no other: Without the roar of an engine, luxury EVs offer an almost silent, ultra-smooth drive – perfect for those who appreciate refinement.

• Tech at your fingertips: From AI-powered driver assistance to massive digital displays, luxury EVs aren’t just about speed; they’re smarter than ever.

• Bespoke luxury: With handcrafted interiors, bespoke finishes, and even sustainable materials, brands like Rolls-Royce and Bentley are proving that opulence and eco-consciousness can go hand in hand.

• Longer ranges, faster charging: With premium EVs now covering over 600 km on a single charge and ultra-fast chargers minimising downtime, the future of luxury driving is effortless.