Prices of hybrid electric vehicles in the UAE are heading toward their petrol versions charge – and in doing so, they are on point to touch the sweet spot with car owners. Especially with those potential owners who believe they are willing to go green with models that come well under the Dh100,000 mark.

Till now, “19% of total hybrid car sales in the UAE were attributed to individuals,” said Saud Abbasi, Managing Director at Al-Futtaim Toyota. And that’s a number Abbasi is comfortable with, if one throws in another 2-4 per cent of all-electric models owned by individuals.

Currently the high majority of hybrid and electric vehicles are still owned and operated by government or government-affiliated entities, as well as privately-owned entities. But what the 19% shows is that more individuals are willing to opt out of owning petrol run versions. Their ranks will only grow - but the fact remains that the majority of the units sold in this category are priced upwards of Dh100,000.

“Current owners are expected to upgrade to newer hybrid models while more people will realize the benefits of hybrid mobility,” he added. “This demand strikes an opportunity for automotive manufacturers and dealerships to be a driver of change to support the UAE’s vision.”