In a significant shift towards sustainable transportation, Armenia is witnessing an unprecedented rise in electric vehicle (EV) sales. This year alone, one of the country's leading car import companies has seen remarkable success, with 82 EVs sold by their sales manager, Evgenia Nushikyan. The surge in sales is attributed to improved import processes from China, accessible credit options, and growing consumer awareness. Despite past challenges with importing vehicles from other markets, the EV market in Armenia is now poised for continued growth, driven by environmental concerns and favorable government policies.
Revolutionizing the Automotive Market: Inside Armenia’s Electric Vehicle Boom
In the vibrant autumn season, Armenia’s automotive landscape is undergoing a transformative change, spearheaded by the increasing popularity of electric vehicles. Evgenia Nushikyan, a seasoned sales manager at one of the nation’s premier car import firms, has personally overseen the sale of 82 electric cars this year. This milestone represents a major breakthrough for the industry, signaling a shift in consumer preferences.
Nushikyan highlights the challenges previously faced when importing vehicles from the United States, where discrepancies between advertised and actual specifications led to costly returns. However, collaborations with Chinese manufacturers have streamlined the process. Specialists now maintain direct communication with buyers at dealerships, ensuring detailed information about each vehicle and minimizing the risk of dissatisfaction.
A key factor driving the high sales volume is the availability of flexible financing options. Consumers can now purchase electric vehicles with just a 10% down payment and an interest rate around 14%. Prices typically range from $20,000 to $45,000, making these eco-friendly cars accessible to middle-income individuals. Nushikyan emphasizes that electric vehicles offer not only comfort and cost-effectiveness but also powerful engines, modern designs, and innovative digital controls, appealing to a diverse clientele including women, tech professionals, and multi-car owners.
The government has also played a crucial role in promoting EV adoption. For 2025, a zero-percent import duty has been set for up to 8,000 electric vehicles, and VAT exemptions will remain in effect until January 1, 2026. Additionally, discussions are underway to address the lifecycle management of vehicle engines, exploring incentives for importing new EVs manufactured within the past two years.
From an environmental standpoint, Nushikyan believes that promoting electric vehicles is essential. While many buyers prioritize comfort and cost, some affluent clients are opting to replace luxury cars with electric alternatives for their entire families. Looking ahead to 2025, she anticipates even higher sales and a broader range of offerings.
As a journalist observing this trend, it’s clear that Armenia is on the cusp of a green mobility revolution. The combination of government support, improved import processes, and consumer demand suggests a promising future for electric vehicles in the country. This shift not only promises economic benefits but also aligns with global efforts to combat climate change, positioning Armenia as a leader in sustainable transportation.
In a world where the growth of electric vehicle (EV) demand has slowed, Rolls-Royce remains steadfast in its commitment to transitioning entirely to electric power. The luxury automaker plans to cease production of its iconic V12 engine by the end of this decade and is set to introduce its second EV model later this year. This follows the launch of the Spectre, the brand's first zero-emission vehicle, which aims to replace the Wraith. Rolls-Royce, under the BMW Group, is investing heavily in preparing its UK factory for an all-electric future, signaling a significant shift in the automotive landscape.
Rolls-Royce's Strategic Move Toward Electrification
In the heart of the United Kingdom, Rolls-Royce is making monumental strides towards an electric future. The ultra-luxury marque, known for its opulent vehicles, is on the cusp of unveiling its next electric marvel. Details remain scarce, but industry insiders speculate that this new model could be an SUV, potentially smaller than the Cullinan yet still commanding presence in the full-size segment. The company's investment of over $370 million underscores its dedication to transforming its manufacturing capabilities. This includes expanding facilities for bespoke and coachbuild projects, ensuring the brand's legacy of craftsmanship endures.
The upcoming EV will likely ride on the Architecture of Luxury platform, exclusive to Rolls-Royce and used in all current models. Automotive News reports suggest that the Spectre may receive a facelift in 2027, followed by a third EV in 2028, possibly replacing the flagship Phantom. While these plans are not officially confirmed, they reflect the brand's ambitious roadmap for electrification.
Over the past two decades, Rolls-Royce has undergone remarkable transformation under BMW's stewardship. From a modest workforce of 300 employees assembling one car per day in 2003, the company now employs over 2,500 workers and produces around 25 vehicles daily in 2025. This exponential growth highlights the brand's resilience and forward-thinking approach.
From an observer's perspective, Rolls-Royce's transition to electric vehicles represents more than just a change in propulsion; it symbolizes the brand's commitment to innovation and sustainability. As the automotive industry evolves, Rolls-Royce's strategic investments and visionary leadership position it as a pioneer in the ultra-luxury electric market. This shift not only promises a greener future but also ensures the brand's enduring relevance in an increasingly eco-conscious world.
At this year's Consumer Electronics Show (CES), Honda has introduced two new electric concept vehicles and an innovative in-car operating system. The unveiling marks a significant step forward in the company's ambition to lead in Level 3 autonomous driving technology. While these innovations bear no direct connection to historical milestones like the Commodore 64, they signal Honda's commitment to shaping the future of automotive design and functionality. The concepts, named the Honda 0 Saloon and Honda 0 SUV, alongside the Asimo OS, showcase Honda's vision for the next generation of electric vehicles set for production in 2026.
Revolutionary Design: The Honda 0 Saloon and 0 SUV
The Honda 0 Saloon and 0 SUV present striking designs that push the boundaries of modern automotive aesthetics. These vehicles are not just visually appealing but also hint at a bold direction for Honda's future models. The sleek lines and angular shapes of the 0 Saloon evoke a blend of retro-futurism, while the 0 SUV offers a more conventional yet equally dramatic appearance. Both models are confirmed for production in 2026, signaling Honda's readiness to bring these concepts to life.
The 0 Saloon stands out with its unique front-end design reminiscent of a simplified supercar, combined with an overall shape that recalls classic compact cars. Its rear features an innovative taillight treatment that creates an infinity-box effect, possibly incorporating the rear window into the light assembly. This design element is reminiscent of the Maserati Khasmin. Meanwhile, the 0 SUV adopts a two-box design with a distinctive Kamm-like rear end, offering a balanced mix of tradition and innovation. Inside, both vehicles boast a futuristic interior with expansive LCD screens dominating the dashboard and a large glass roof that enhances the airy, modern feel. The absence of physical controls, however, might be a point of contention for some drivers.
Advancing Autonomous Driving with Asimo OS
Honda's introduction of the Asimo OS represents a significant leap in automotive software development. Named after the company's discontinued humanoid robotics program, this operating system integrates advanced intelligence technologies to enhance automated driving capabilities. Honda aims to offer unique software-defined vehicle (SDV) experiences through Asimo OS, which will manage various electronic control units (ECUs) for systems such as automated driving, driver assistance, and infotainment. The focus on Level 3 automated driving is particularly noteworthy, promising to revolutionize how we interact with our vehicles.
Level 3 automated driving allows the vehicle to oversee driving under certain conditions, enabling the driver to engage in secondary tasks like watching movies or participating in virtual meetings. Honda plans to expand this capability gradually, starting with traffic congestion on highways and progressing through over-the-air (OTA) updates. A key challenge remains the handover process when the car requires human intervention. Honda is working on addressing this critical issue, aiming to ensure seamless transitions between autonomous and manual driving modes. If successful, Honda could become the first automaker to extend eyes-off functions to all driving situations, opening up new possibilities in mobility. The company's commitment to advancing this technology signals its intent to lead the industry in autonomous driving solutions.