First electric car hits Dubai roads
In a significant step towards fulfilling Dubai’s vision for sustainable transport, Dubai roads welcomed for the first time, fully electric cars recently, making it the first city in the Gulf to license electric cars.
The electric cars, licensed to Dubai-based business conglomerate SS Lootah Group, are the latest addition to the company fleet as part of its “Green Car” programme.
The programme, conceived 3 years ago, addresses the mobility needs of the company with minimum effect on the environment, as part of the Group’s drive towards integrating sustainability as a core driver of business strategy and objectives, in line with the vision of the nation’s leadership.
Using Compressed Natural Gas (CNG), the cleanest burning fossil fuel, hybrid vehicles, high-mileage vehicles and fleet modernisation are some features of the programme.
Nasser Lootah, director, SS Lootah Group commented, “The ‘Green Car Programme’ has seen great progression since inception starting from conversion of part of our fleet to Compressed Natural Gas, followed by the use of hybrid cars and now, electric cars. We are currently testing the performance and specifications of the electric car to suit the Gulf conditions and the response has been very positive so far.”
Engineer Yahya Lootah, vice-chairman, CEO, SS Lootah Group praised the vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of UAE and Ruler of Dubai, to make Dubai a model city of the future and commented, “We are committed to contribute to the vision of our Leadership towards making Dubai sustainable in every respect including mainstream transport. We are confident that the electric car will be a viable alternative for commuting within the city and play a significant role in reducing pollution.”