Norway is set to become the world’s first country to phase out new fossil fuel vehicles entirely, redefining the global shift to electric mobility.
Key Points at a Glance
- Norway’s electric vehicles (EVs) made up nearly 89% of new car sales in 2024, with EVs now outnumbering petrol cars on its roads.
- The government’s long-term incentives and infrastructure investments have made EV adoption convenient and affordable.
- Challenges include maintaining the EV revolution’s momentum globally in countries with fewer resources or less supportive policies.
On the streets of Oslo, electric vehicles are no longer a rarity but the norm. With an “E” prominently displayed on nearly every license plate, Norway leads the world in transitioning to electric cars. In 2024 alone, 88.9% of new cars sold were electric. For the first time, EVs on Norwegian roads outnumber petrol-powered vehicles—a historic milestone in a journey spanning three decades.
The journey began in the early 1990s, when Norway’s government implemented policies to encourage greener transportation. Initial incentives included tax breaks and exemptions on electric cars, eventually complemented by perks like free parking and access to bus lanes. These policies created an environment where electric vehicles became not only attractive but also economically viable.
Even large car dealerships, like Oslo’s Harald A Møller, have entirely phased out fossil-fuel vehicles. “The future is electric,” says Ulf Tore Hekneby, the dealership’s CEO. “With long-range options and fast-charging speeds, there’s no going back.”
For motorists like Ståle Fyen, economic incentives were pivotal in making the switch. “No taxes on EVs made it an easy choice,” Fyen explains while charging his car in central Oslo. Despite shorter battery ranges during Norway’s cold winters, the nation’s expansive network of charging stations—over 27,000—ensures convenience.
Merete Eggesbø, an early Tesla adopter in 2014, reflects on how going electric aligns with her values. “It gave me a better conscience,” she says, emphasizing the environmental benefits.
Unlike bans seen in other countries, Norway’s government incentivized change through predictable, long-term policies. Fossil fuel vehicles were taxed heavily, while EVs were exempt from VAT and import duties. Infrastructure investments ensured widespread availability of charging stations, addressing a key barrier to EV adoption.
By contrast, the European Union plans to ban new petrol and diesel car sales by 2035, while the UK aims for 2030. However, many nations face slower progress due to less comprehensive incentives and infrastructure gaps.
While Norway’s success demonstrates what’s possible, replicating this model globally presents challenges. Norway’s vast oil wealth funds its ambitious projects and mitigates tax revenue losses from declining petrol and diesel sales. Additionally, the nation’s abundant hydroelectric power—accounting for 88% of electricity production—ensures EVs are charged sustainably.
Christina Bu, secretary general of the Norwegian EV Association, believes other countries can adapt Norway’s strategies. “It’s about crafting strong policies that work for local markets,” she says. Bu also emphasizes that Norway’s shift wasn’t driven solely by environmentalism. “It’s practical and cost-effective,” she notes.
As Norway approaches its goal of making all new car sales “zero emission” by 2025, it offers valuable lessons for the world. Policymakers must balance incentives, infrastructure, and public awareness to ensure a smooth transition to electric mobility. Norway’s success proves that with the right mix of policies and investments, a sustainable, all-electric future is within reach.
