Impact of Iran War: Used Electric Cars Become Popular in Europe

PARIS - A surge in petrol prices due to the war between the United States-Israel and Iran is beginning to shift consumer behaviour in Europe. One notable effect is the rising sales of used electric vehicles on various online platforms. European used car trading platforms report that the high cost of fuel is prompting consumers to switch from internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles to electric cars. They add that electric vehicles have now even surpassed diesel models as the top-selling type on these platforms. For context, the war that broke out on 28 February 2026 has disrupted key distribution routes carrying about 20 per cent of global oil supplies. The impact has been immediate on fuel prices. According to European Commission data, the average petrol price in the EU rose 12 per cent to €1.84 per litre, equivalent to Rp31,648 per litre, during the period from 23 February to 16 March 2026. Previously, the figure was only 6.5 per cent in the week starting 16 February, rising to 12.7 per cent in the week starting 9 March. Aramisauto CEO Romain Boscher stated that a similar trend occurred in 2022 during the Russia-Ukraine conflict, which triggered an energy price spike. “Once petrol prices exceed €2 per litre, it leaves a strong impression on consumers,” Boscher said.