Once hailed as the future of transport, electric vehicles (EVs) are losing their spark—at least among Azerbaijani consumers. Despite tax breaks and environmental perks, enthusiasm for going fully electric has noticeably declined.
From Hype to Hesitation
Just a few years ago, EVs were seen as an affordable, eco-friendly alternative to gas-powered cars. Today, many potential buyers are reconsidering. This is despite a generous incentive: electric cars remain exempt from value-added tax (VAT) for up to three years. They also produce zero emissions—an attractive proposition for an oil-producing country facing mounting climate concerns.
Azerbaijan’s warm climate should, in theory, make EV ownership even more practical. Unlike colder nations that require heavy-duty (and expensive) battery packs, local drivers enjoy optimal conditions for electric performance. So what’s driving the downturn?
Charging Woes and Range Reality
According to experts, the biggest roadblock is the lack of charging infrastructure. While Baku and other major cities are relatively well-equipped, rural regions remain largely uncovered. Many EV owners have no choice but to charge at home—on their own dime.
Then there’s the issue of limited service and support. Azerbaijan’s EV market is still in its infancy, meaning spare parts can be hard to come by. Add to that the frustration of real-world range underperforming against advertised specs—some cars that promise 400 km barely manage 300 to 350.
New Fears Emerge
Concerns about range and reliability are now being joined by something more speculative: electromagnetic radiation. Some drivers, particularly those who spend long hours behind the wheel—like taxi and bus operators—report symptoms such as fatigue, nausea, headaches, and brain fog.
Transport analyst Seymur Fataliyev says that while these concerns may be based more on anecdote than science, they are spreading fast:
“People who drive short commutes might not notice anything. But for professional drivers, the complaints are real. At first, no one linked these symptoms to electromagnetic exposure. But recent studies and growing public discourse have made people more wary. Some believe that the older the vehicle gets, the higher the radiation levels become—which is especially troubling for sensitive individuals.”
What the Science Says
To be clear, EVs emit non-ionizing radiation—the same category as your phone, microwave, or laptop. Unlike ionizing radiation (like X-rays or gamma rays), non-ionizing waves are not known to cause direct cellular damage.
Azerbaijan also has national standards in place to regulate the use of electric vehicles. These cover everything from motors and batteries to safety and operational stability. The most recent guidelines are outlined in AZS ECE 100:2024.
Bottom Line
Despite the early promise, Azerbaijan’s EV transition is facing bumps in the road. With public skepticism on the rise and infrastructure still lagging, it may take more than tax perks to recharge consumer confidence.
