13 Aug August 13, 2016 Electric vehicles entering the UAE will have to meet with new standards formulated by the Emirates Authority for Standardisation and Metrology (ESMA), which came into effect last month. UAE has been promoting the use of eco-friendly vehicles to reduce the country’s carbon footprint and develop a sustainable economy, but the country until recently lacked a federal law or standards to regulate the sale and use of the battery-powered vehicles. Last month, ESMA launched the standards specifying the minimum requirements the electric vehicles should meet, including: Adaptability of the batteries to high temperature. Protection of drivers and passengers against electric shock. Safety of batteries against explosion due to overheating. Safety of the vehicles in case of front and side impact. Vehicles’ ability to withstand sand storms and dusty conditions. According to Abdullah Al Muaini, Director-General of ESMA, standards have been approved by the UAE cabinet and all manufacturers and authorised dealers of the vehicles are aware of the requirements. “Any electric vehicles entering the UAE should have a crash test certificate conforming to the safety standards of the international technical regulations,” said Al Muaini. He added that Civil Defence and Dubai Police have established an emergency rescue mechanism to avoid any fire or explosions when dealing with electric vehicles that are involved in accidents. Recently, Toyota launched its most popular electric car, Prius, while hybrid vehicles and electric powered buses have been on the UAE roads for the last few years. Dubai is actively promoting electric vehicles with the launch of electric vehicle charging stations as well as putting in place the mechanism to inspect and register the vehicles. According to Roads and Transport Authority (RTA), Dubai already has around 200 electric vehicles registered. Source: GN
