Used EV Sales Surge in Europe Amid Iran War-Driven Petrol Price Hikes Petrol price spikes caused by the ongoing war in Iran are fueling a rise in used electric vehicle (EV) sales across Europe, according to online car platforms. The conflict, which began on February 28, has disrupted a critical oil shipping route, contributing to a 12% increase in average petrol prices in the European Union. The cost of petrol rose to 1.84 euros per litre, up from 1.64 euros in early February, according to European Commission data. Analysts and car marketplaces report a notable shift in consumer behavior as high fuel costs push buyers toward EVs. Terje Dahlgren, an analyst at Norway’s Finn.no, noted that used EVs have overtaken diesel models as the best-selling fuel type on his platform. French online retailer Aramisauto, majority-owned by Stellantis, reported its share of EV sales nearly doubling between February 16 and March 9, reaching 12.7% from 6.5%. CEO Romain Boscher linked the surge to rising petrol prices, stating that crossing the 2-euro-per-litre threshold has significantly influenced consumer decisions. The trend is evident in multiple European markets. In France, MG, a Chinese EV brand, is promoting its vehicles with ads urging consumers to "rethink the way you drive." Meanwhile, Amsterdam-based Olx reported a surge in EV inquiries across France, Romania, Portugal, and Poland, with growth accelerating week-over-week. Used EV sales in the UK also spiked, peaking above 1,100 cars per day after the war began, according to Marketcheck data. The shift is driven by both cost and availability. Used EVs are up to 40% cheaper than new models and are immediately available, unlike new cars that often require months of delivery.#iran_war #european_union #stellantis #finn_no #marketcheck
