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Underling this initiative, Tesla launched operations in the U.A.E. via an online platform and a store in Dubai Mall. This is to be followed by Tesla Service Centers in Dubai (in July 2017) and Abu Dhabi (early 2018). BMW, Renault and Toyota are also offering electric vehicles for sale in the UAE, and General Motors (GM) is reportedly considering launching its Bolt model in the country in Q4-18.
U.S. manufacturers exploring business in the region may find it worth noting that apart from EV’s, the U.A.E. government encourages autonomous vehicle technology, research and development into driverless vehicles and other smart, green and environment friendly technologies, such as, alternate fuel vehicles, including Hybrid and Hydrogen vehicles.
However, in order to regulate the market, the Emirates Authority for Standardization and Metrology (ESMA) is working to set standards for imported EV’s and address concerns surrounding overheated batteries, operating in extreme heat and humidity, protecting drivers and passengers from the risk of electric shocks and protecting passengers in case of front and side impacts, etc.
Autonomous Vehicles
Dubai has taken a step closer to becoming one of the most attractive markets for the introduction of technologies relating to the 'Internet of Things' (IoT) in 2018.
The emirate aims to meet its stated goal of autonomous vehicles accounting for 25% of all its transportation needs by 2030. To that end, the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) in Dubai has signed a deal with HERE Technologies for digital mapping of the road network in Dubai for the introduction of self-driving (autonomous) vehicles.
In addition, the UAE's local telecoms players, such as Etisalat, have also leveraged partnerships with autos companies such as Nissan, Toyota and Tesla to roll out connected car services in order to provide high connectivity and specific data sharing requirements for future autonomous vehicles.
Motorcycles
Demand for motorcycles is on the rise in the U.A.E., both for lower end (used by expatriate workers) and higher end (used by richer U.A.E. consumers). Companies like Harley-Davidson, Honda, and Kawasaki have operations in the U.A.E. but other companies like, Hero MotoCorp and Royal Enfield (from India) and others are also expanding into the market.
Used Cars
As a regional trade hub supporting intense international business activity, the U.A.E. presents an extremely competitive business landscape for American companies in this sector. However, the U.A.E. Ministry of Interior recently announced that as of May 1, 2017 registration of imported used vehicles will be subject to a conformity letter by ESMA after verifying compliance with the new regulations on import of used vehicles. Many successful U.S. firms already in business in the region
best prospects