Special Report – Al-Raqeeb
The Palestinian economy suffers from a heavy financial burden due to fuel imports, particularly from Israel, which accounts for 100% of Palestine’s fuel supply. This dependency places significant strain on both the government and citizens.
In a special interview with Al-Raqeeb Radio, Ameen Jaradat, Executive Director of TBC Group (Al-Tahan Group), emphasized that shifting to electric vehicles (EVs) could reduce operational costs for Palestinian citizens by up to 80%. He explained that EVs would also help resolve the problem of excess Israeli shekels accumulating in the local market and serve as a catalyst for economic independence from the occupation.
Jaradat added, “The world is moving towards alternative energy in all sectors due to its economic, health, and social benefits. As Palestinians, we must keep pace with global developments and seriously consider these changes.”
Is Palestine Ready for Electric Vehicles?
Regarding Palestine’s readiness for EV adoption, Jaradat confirmed that the infrastructure in the occupied West Bank poses no real challenge, neither in terms of the mountainous terrain nor the availability of charging stations. Some modern EVs, he noted, have a battery range exceeding 600 kilometers, eliminating the need for daily charging.
Jaradat also addressed common misconceptions about electric vehicles, clarifying that EV maintenance is simpler and cheaper than conventional vehicles. He assured that Palestinian engineering teams are fully trained and capable of providing top-notch services to local consumers.
He further stressed that concerns related to public safety are unfounded, as EVs are manufactured under the highest global safety standards. Additionally, EV batteries are guaranteed for up to 8 years, making them an attractive long-term investment for Palestinian consumers.
Jaradat praised the Palestinian government’s strict regulations on EV imports, describing them as a strategic tool to protect consumer safety and promote both environmental and economic interests.
Environmental Impact
Electric vehicles play a crucial environmental role by reducing carbon dioxide emissions and minimizing air pollution, especially in congested Palestinian cities. This transition is expected to lower the rates of respiratory illnesses caused by exhaust emissions. Jaradat also noted that Chinese industries are now leading global trends in environmentally-conscious manufacturing, including EV production.
A Global Trend Toward Clean Transportation
Since 2010, the world has witnessed a gradual return to electric mobility with the emergence of companies like Tesla, sparking what experts describe as a modern electric vehicle revolution.
There are expectations that gasoline engines will gradually disappear by 2040 in many countries. In Norway, for example, 90% of new vehicles sold in 2024 were electric or hybrid, and the government has already banned the sale of new gasoline and diesel cars starting in 2025.
This reflects a global shift toward eco-friendly vehicles.
Global and Local Figures
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Out of approximately 1.7 billion vehicles worldwide, there are around 80 million electric vehicles, representing over 5% of the global fleet.
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In Palestine, there are about 350,000 registered vehicles, with only 2% being electric or hybrid.