Middle East war drives Southeast Asia toward electric vehicles to escape fuel shock

Dealers report buyers switching fast as petrol costs spike

Electric vehicle demand is surging across Southeast Asia as shoppers rush to dealerships to sidestep runaway fuel prices. Since the Middle East war began, crude has climbed by roughly 50%, briefly pushing above $100 per barrel, tightening budgets at the pump. EVs are emerging as the cheaper, shielded alternative for cost-conscious buyers.