Petrol price spikes linked to the ongoing war in Iran have led to a noticeable jump in used electric vehicle (EV) sales across Europe, as consumers respond to rising fuel costs, industry sources said on March 26. The conflict, which began on February 28 and has disrupted key global oil shipping routes such as the Strait of Hormuz, has contributed to higher pump prices that are shifting consumer behaviour.
Online car marketplaces reported that EVs have become increasingly popular in the used‑car segment, overtaking diesel models as the most sought‑after fuel type on some platforms. Analysts described the trend as an “electric car bonanza” in the second‑hand market, driven in part by drivers looking to escape the pain at the petrol pump.
Data from the European Commission showed that the average price of petrol in the European Union climbed by about 12%, to roughly €1.84 per litre, between late February and mid‑March, reflecting supply concerns tied to the conflict. As a result, several used‑EV dealers and online retailers reported a significant increase in EV interest and transactions during the period.
Some European online used‑car retailers noted that their share of EV sales nearly doubled in recent weeks, highlighting that more drivers are considering electric alternatives as fuel costs rise. While long‑term impacts on total vehicle sales remain to be seen, the early indicators suggest that elevated petrol prices are influencing consumer preferences in Europe’s automotive market.