Qatar Automotive Sector and Electric Vehicles

Despite its comparatively small market size, Qatar has a very dynamic automotive sector. In the consumer segment, SUVs are very popular for its durability, versatility, and adaptability in extreme and desert environments. The luxury car segment is competitive and new brands and models entered the market this year. In addition, due to the popularity of share-ride services, the sedan market is a dynamic sub-sector that has experienced significant growth. Overall, in terms of units sold, the Qatar automotive market is dominated by Asian brands such as Toyota, Nissan, Mitsubishi, and Honda. However, there is room to increase the number of U.S. cars sold in this market across all sub-sectors. 

Qatar is a platform for car manufacturers to showcase their newest models and trends as a regional launching pad for newly launched electric vehicles (EVs). Volkswagen’s electric SUV will launch first in Qatar, Toyota and Lexus’ hybrid-electric vehicle is already available to the public, and BMW is already advertising their iX3 model. In November 2023, the first edition of the Geneva International Motor Show Qatar will take place in Doha, which will provide a critical opportunity for the U.S. auto industry to showcase new cars and car products and services to a more global audience. The U.S. Commercial Service (CS) in Qatar encourages U.S. companies to participate in this auto show to gain exposure, make contacts, and develop a deeper understanding of the market. 

Electric Vehicles (EVs) in 2022

There is a strong government push toward EVs in Qatar with government ministries, offices, and stakeholders trying to develop in-country demand, increase awareness, offer wider EV selection and options, and create the physical infrastructure needed for EVs. Even financial institutions are responding to public demand for hybrid and electric vehicles by offering green financing options to assist with purchases. Qatar is moving quickly to transition their bus and car/taxi fleets, and encourage customers toward EV options, which will create opportunities for U.S. companies in this sector. 

EVs in Public Transportation

Qatar continues advancing its pledge to deliver the first carbon-neutral FIFA World Cup in history, and fulfill the sustainability goals outlined in Qatar’s National Vision 2030. To attain climate change mitigation commitments and reduce carbon emissions, electric vehicles are an important component. In June 2022, Mowasalat, the state-owned transportation company of Qatar, reported having 700+ electric buses operating in the country. The government will gradually convert public transportation buses, public school buses, and subway connection bus services to electric buses by 2030. Karwa, the taxi division of Mowasalat, also announced that it will transition its combustion fleet to hybrid-electric vehicles. 
Consumer EVs and Chargers

While the adoption of consumer EVs has been slower than the public sector, the consumer sector continues to advance. The Ministry of Transport is promoting the private deployment of personal vehicle EV charging units. Private entities must coordinate with the Ministry and follow Qatar’s EV Strategy guidelines. One project led by ENGIE Cofely Mannai (ECM), an affiliate of ENGIE which is a global leader in low-carbon energy, has been awarded a contract with Qatar’s General Electricity and Water Corporation (KAHRAMAA) to supply and install 100 electric vehicle chargers in various locations including stadiums, gas stations, Hamad International Airport (HIA), the Corniche, and other high-traffic, public locations. Individual customers can also request the installation of electrical connections for personal EV charging stations through KAHRAMAA in collaboration with Tarsheed. In addition to consumer EVs, electric bikes and scooters are widely available across Doha, both as ride-share services and for purchase with several retail vendors already established. 

U.S. companies looking at the EV and autonomous driving vehicle market can participate in public procurement opportunities by visiting Qatar’s Government Procurement Services website.  CS Qatar can assist U.S. companies in finding partners with existing players in the local market, local distributors, or entering the value chains that serve the market.  American suppliers engaged in different areas of the EV supply chain are encouraged to reach out to CS Qatar to evaluate market potential, learn about opportunities, and explore business matchmaking, market research, or other assistance. 

For more information about the electric vehicles sector in Qatar, please contact Commercial Assistant Juan Catril at Juan.Catril@trade.gov.