The sluggish EV revolution
The switch to EVs will be slower than widely predicted—unless China takes the plunge
Electric vehicles (EV) are surging" is a headline we've often read over the past year. It seems inevitable: the electric-car revolution is around the corner and the end of growing oil demand is nigh. Yet global oil consumption continues to rise, predominantly driven by low oil prices and strong demand from the transportation sector. None of the fundamental shortcomings of electric cars has been eliminated over the past year: there hasn't been a breakthrough in battery technology and it's unlikely we'll see one in 2018. EVs are still heavily reliant on government subsidies and will remain so. Even with today's low number of electric cars, the inadequacy of charging infrastructure is already a
Also in this section
28 April 2026
The key energy player faces balancing regional routes, political complexities, and creating a clear strategic vision for energy security
24 April 2026
The European Commission’s response to the Middle East crisis is to double down on its transition strategy, with plans for a new target on electrification
24 April 2026
A major new discovery by Eni and BP that can likely be fast-tracked to production is welcome news for Egypt as it scrambles to plug a widening supply gap and deal with rising import risks
24 April 2026
Countries in the region are turning to the cleaner-burning fuel for power generation, driving demand for imports
