Sunday, 5 July 2026
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AutoPublished: 5 July 2026 at 11:37

Fuel crisis in Russia boosts demand for Chinese electric cars

Shortages and price hikes due to Ukrainian strikes on refineries have led many Russian drivers to consider Chinese EVs, with sales jumping from a few per month to several per day.

Foto: iAuto.lv

A fuel crisis in Russia, triggered by Ukrainian attacks on oil refineries, has significantly increased interest in electric vehicles, particularly those manufactured in China. According to Reuters, gasoline shortages and sharp price rises have forced many motorists to look for alternatives.

Car dealers report a surge in demand for electric cars over the past weeks. While only a few units were sold per month previously, now several vehicles are being purchased daily. Chinese brands are the most sought-after, as Western automakers have exited the Russian market, leaving Chinese manufacturers as the dominant players.

The popularity of plug-in hybrids has also grown, and the national charging station operator has recorded a notable rise in charging sessions. However, the expansion of electric mobility is still hampered by insufficient charging infrastructure and Russia's vast distances. Despite these challenges, the current fuel crisis has prompted many drivers to seriously consider switching to electric transport.

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