In the October issue of Viking, we explored how Norway has been taking sustainable steps forward by using electric ferries. The country currently has 31 fully-electric ferries in operation, and that number is expected to grow substantially. But these remarkable boats aren’t the only zero-emission form of transportation being used in Norway—electric cars have become increasingly widespread over recent years. Given Norway’s ecological approach to living, it comes as no surprise that they have the most electric vehicles per capita of anywhere in the globe.
While electric cars didn’t appear overnight, there were certainly intentional efforts put forth to help Norway arrive where it is today. Since 1990, policy makers have been in favor of cars powered by electricity rather than gas, paving the way for future success. In 1998, the government created a national transport plan with a focus on protecting the environment.
That initiative has continued into the present, as Norway consistently reevaluates its transportation-related sustainability goals and strives to curb fuel emissions more and more. By 2030, Oslo intends to have zero or close to zero greenhouse gas emissions, and Norway as a whole aims to have 75% of new long-distance buses and heavy vans be zero-emission vehicles. The country’s widespread environmental focus has led to unmatched positive results, and today, every other car sold is either fully or partially electric.
While ecological values are a factor in Norwegians’ decisions to purchase electric cars, the population is also incentivized to make green choices from a financial standpoint. For example, drivers who opt for electric cars don’t have to worry about value-added tax when they purchase or lease a new vehicle, and their annual road taxes are less than those who drive gas-powered cars. Plus, electric cars are allowed to drive in bus lanes, skip tolls, and enjoy free public parking.
Looking to take part in the green transport initiative? The country has more than 10,000 charging stations for electric vehicles (some are even conveniently located outside hotels), creating the perfect opportunity for an eco-friendly road trip with unbeatable views.