How the adoption of electric vehicles is driving Saudi Arabia’s green agenda

Special How the adoption of electric vehicles is driving Saudi Arabia’s green agenda
The shift from traditional combustion engine vehicles to new electric models has accelerated worldwide as companies and consumers opt for greener modes of transport. (Supplied photo)
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Updated 20 April 2024
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How the adoption of electric vehicles is driving Saudi Arabia’s green agenda

How the adoption of electric vehicles is driving Saudi Arabia’s green agenda
  • Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund wants to produce half a million electric vehicles by 2030
  • The Kingdom has installed charging outlets in public areas in Diriyah to encourage EV ownership

RIYADH: Around the world, electric vehicles are already revolutionizing leisure, public transportation and logistics, shrinking the carbon footprint of travel, improving air quality and reducing pollution in the air, on land and in the sea.

As Saudi Arabia embarks on a range of environmental initiatives designed to address the challenges posed by climate change and foster sustainable economic development, EVs have become an important focus area.

The shift from traditional combustion engine vehicles to new electric models has accelerated worldwide as companies and consumers opt for greener modes of transport. Saudi Arabia is no exception.




Saudia, the Kingdom's national flag carrier, has signed an arrangement to acquire 100 electric-powered jets from Lilium, developer of the first all-electric vertical take-off and landing (“eVTOL”) jet. (Supplied)

The transition from regular cars to electric vehicles in the Kingdom is flourishing. The EV trend has gone beyond personal vehicle ownership, with the proliferation of everything from e-scooters to electric buses.

There are even discussions around whether EV technology will soon be applied to aircraft and perhaps space travel.

Stephen Crolius, former climate adviser at the Clinton Foundation and current president of Carbon-Neutral Consulting, supports the idea of EV ownership due to its environmental benefits.

Although it might still be a challenge to educate the public in some societies about the benefits of transitioning to EVs, Crolius says the advantages outweigh the disadvantages.

“For mass transition to occur on any front, there has to be a set of circumstances that cause it to happen,” he told Arab News.

“Through government encouragement, we can continue to build volume (and) cause industries to mature, like, for example, the battery industry, which has done a lot of maturing over the last 15 years … the cost of batteries and the prices of batteries have come down to an extraordinary degree.

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“We are developing renewable generation for electricity. Are we developing fast enough to head off the climate crisis? I don’t know. But compared to new generations of technology getting rolled out, we are deploying a lot of renewable electricity generation, in historical terms, really fast.”

Companies such as CEER and Lucid, which are heavily funded by the Saudi Public Investment Fund, are at the forefront of driving growth in Saudi Arabia’s electric vehicle industry.

US electric car manufacturer Lucid signed a contract with the PIF two years ago to build a factory in the King Abdullah Economic City on the Red Sea. Today, PIF shares a little over half of the ownership of the group in the Kingdom, and aims to produce almost half a million EVs by 2030.

Since last year, the use of electric vehicles in the Kingdom has expanded to include electric buses as a sustainable alternative to traditional fossil fuel-powered vehicles.

Electric buses have zero emissions and therefore significantly reduce air pollution and greenhouse gases in urban areas, especially during the Hajj season, when pilgrims flock to the Kingdom and make use of its mass transit network.

An electric bus service connecting the airport to the Prophet’s Mosque in Madinah was launched by the region’s governor Prince Faisal bin Salman bin Abdulaziz during the last Hajj season.

DID YOUKNOW

• The Kingdom has invested at least $10 billion in US electric car manufacturer Lucid Motors.

• With 61% of shares, Saudi Arabia is the majority owner of Lucid Group through its Public Investment Fund.

• PIF aims to produce 500,000 EVs annually by 2030.

• In Riyadh, the EV share is targeted to increase by 30% in 2030.

The route connecting the two locations enabled high operational efficiency, with a bus able to travel 250 km on just a single charge.

Electric buses offer a variety of benefits, including reduced noise, improved energy efficiency and lower maintenance costs. In addition, they have a smaller carbon footprint, which is a crucial step toward sustainability.

Saudis committed to protecting the environment have also included EVs in their daily commute, with e-scooters now found in Riyadh and other cities. E-scooters provide an eco-friendly solution to local transport by cutting toxic emissions and lowering noise pollution.

Offering e-scooter services in various locations in Riyadh is a clear sign of the Kingdom’s eagerness to not only set regulations and promote electric vehicles, but also lead society in adopting a positive attitude toward sustainable living.




Gazal's e-scooter services have become a popular option for those traveling specially in crowded places in Riyadh. (Photo courtesy of Gazal)

Furthermore, with advancements in battery technology and the development of charging infrastructure, electric vehicles are becoming a viable option for companies aiming to decarbonize their operations.

For example, in public areas in Diriyah such as Albujairi and At-Turaif, standard wall outlets are available for EV owners to charge their vehicles while enjoying a visit to the UNESCO World Heritage site.

As the aviation industry is one of the largest contributors to carbon emissions, the concept of electric aircraft may offer a promising solution to global decarbonization.

Three years ago, British automobile maker Rolls-Royce broke records when its “Spirit of Innovation” aircraft reached 628 km per hour, making it the world’s fastest all-electric vehicle.

At the time, Warren East, the company’s then-CEO, said that electric aircraft could make “jet zero” a reality and help decarbonize all forms of transport.

Compared to existing commercial aircraft, which rely on petroleum and synthetic fuel blends, electric planes produce less noise, have lower operating costs and emit significantly fewer greenhouse gases.

However, there are still several obstacles to the widespread adoption of electric aircraft — in particular the sheer expense of adapting the existing infrastructure needed to support their use.

Though governments and private companies worldwide could collaborate and build a comprehensive network of charging stations to meet growing demand, this may burden the economies of some countries.

Nevertheless, the growing importance of electric vehicles beyond cars, such as buses, electric scooters and airplanes, holds great promise for a decarbonized future.




The growing importance of electric vehicles beyond cars, such as buses, electric scooters and airplanes, holds great promise for a decarbonized future. (Shutterstock photo)

Utilizing alternative sources of energy in these areas can change the carbon emissions game for the better, fight air pollution, and pave the way for sustainable transport systems in the Kingdom and around the world.

To realize the full potential of electric vehicles, however, governments and businesses will first have to address challenges such as the provision of sufficient charging infrastructure as well as range limitations in battery technology.

Through continued innovation and investment, electric vehicles will play a key role in creating a greener and more sustainable future.
 

 


Japan looks forward to strengthening relations with ‘major power’ Saudi Arabia as 70th anniversary nears

Japan looks forward to strengthening relations with ‘major power’ Saudi Arabia as 70th anniversary nears
Updated 20 December 2024
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Japan looks forward to strengthening relations with ‘major power’ Saudi Arabia as 70th anniversary nears

Japan looks forward to strengthening relations with ‘major power’ Saudi Arabia as 70th anniversary nears

DUBAI: Japan Foreign Minister Takeshi Iwaya told a press conference on Friday that Saudi Arabia is a “major power” in the Middle East and plays a significant role in peace and stability in the region.

“Saudi Arabia is an important country for Japan, especially when it comes to energy and security. The country is an important partner,” he said.

Responding to a question about next year’s 70th anniversary celebrations between the two countries, Iwaya explained that Japan, on a broader and deeper scope, wants to “promote cooperation and understanding” with Saudi Arabia.

Iwaya said that Japan was soliciting public proposals for commemorative events between the two countries. “Between the governments, we are moving forward with certain plans,” he added.

In October, a commemorative logo was released, which features a combination of a palm tree, a symbol of Saudi Arabia, and cherry blossoms, a flower synonymous with Japan.

The foreign minister also spoke about Japanese boxing champion Naoya Inoue’s sponsorship contract with Riyadh Season.

“(The contract) is something that we should be very happy about, we are proud of this super champion. So, we hope that he will be very active and successful in Saudi Arabia as well. We welcome this,” he told the press conference.

Inoue announced the sponsorship deal in November, which is reported to be worth about $20 million. The boxing champion will have the Riyadh Season logo displayed on the branding for his fights.

During the press conference, Iwaya also announced newly designed Japanese passports in 2025 as well as Prime Minister Ishiba Shigeru’s potential meeting with US president-elect Donald Trump.

This article originally appeared on Arab News Japan


Diriyah Season 24/25 launches celebration of history, culture and arts

Diriyah Season 24/25 launches celebration of history, culture and arts
Updated 20 December 2024
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Diriyah Season 24/25 launches celebration of history, culture and arts

Diriyah Season 24/25 launches celebration of history, culture and arts
  • Diriyah Season 24/25 will kick off with the Enduring Resilience Exhibition

RIYADH: The Diriyah Company has announced the launch of Diriyah Season 24/25, which begins on Friday, Dec. 20 with a display of Diriyah’s heritage, hospitality, and immersive cultural experiences through various programs.

Jerry Inzerillo, CEO of the Diriyah Company, said: “We anticipate welcoming three million visitors to At-Turaif district, the birthplace of the Kingdom, by Founding Day on Feb. 22, 2025.

“We are breaking records in visitor numbers and forming numerous partnerships for ground and tour operations, with new flights already arriving from countries like China. The international presence in Bujairi is evident every night, making it one of the world’s premier gathering spots.”

Under the theme “Entertain Your Cultural Curiosity,” Diriyah Season 24/25 will kick off with the Enduring Resilience Exhibition, honoring the legacy of Imam Turki bin Abdullah, who founded the Second Saudi State 200 years ago. The much-anticipated Layali Diriyah returns with innovative experiences, while Minzal invites visitors to appreciate the natural beauty and heritage of Diriyah in a winter wonderland.

Guests can engage with the “850” interactive experience, immersing themselves in the narratives of significant historical figures. The Diriyah Storytelling Festival will celebrate literature and promote cultural exchange. Additionally, the Tyn Festival will bring together architects, academics and enthusiasts to celebrate the region’s tradition of mud architecture.

In the historic At-Turaif district and Bujairi Terrace, visitors will embark on a journey filled with cultural and artistic expression. The Souq program combines performing arts with a heritage backdrop enriched by modern elements. Lastly, the Samri Art Activities will offer interactive performances of Samri folk music and dance at various locations in Diriyah throughout the season.


UN Internet Governance Forum concludes in Riyadh

UN Internet Governance Forum concludes in Riyadh
Updated 20 December 2024
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UN Internet Governance Forum concludes in Riyadh

UN Internet Governance Forum concludes in Riyadh
  • Event witnessed launch of Riyadh Declaration to help strengthen international partnerships in AI
  • Forum featured experts from 170 countries

RIYADH: The UN Internet Governance Forum concluded its 19th edition on Thursday at the King Abdulaziz International Conference Center in Riyadh.

The forum’s organizers said that the global event had focused on internet governance policies and emerging digital challenges. It had achieved the highest attendance in the history of the forum, surpassing 11,000 participants.

The forum also witnessed the launch of the Riyadh Declaration, a document which aims at strengthening international partnerships in artificial intelligence and digital technologies to serve humanity.

The event featured experts and specialists in internet technology and policy from 170 countries, with more than 1,000 international speakers contributing to over 300 sessions and workshops, the Saudi Press Agency reported.

It revolved around four main topics: innovation and risk in the digital space; development and sustainability; promoting human rights and inclusiveness; and improving the digital governance of the internet, the SPA added.


King Abdulaziz Falconry Festival concludes with record-breaking prize pool

King Abdulaziz Falconry Festival concludes with record-breaking prize pool
Updated 19 December 2024
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King Abdulaziz Falconry Festival concludes with record-breaking prize pool

King Abdulaziz Falconry Festival concludes with record-breaking prize pool
  • The 17-day event featured 1,032 falconers from nine countries, 3,322 birds and a total prize pool of $9.6 million

The 2024 King Abdulaziz Falconry Festival, which featured a prize pool of more than SR36 million ($9.6 million), the largest in the history of the event, concluded on Thursday.

The festival, which began on Dec. 3 and was organized by the The Saudi Falcons Club at its headquarters in Malham, north of Riyadh, featured 1,032 falconers, of whom 160 came from outside the Kingdom. They represented nine countries — Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Kuwait, the UAE, Oman, Qatar, Syria, Italy and Ireland — and brought with them 3,322 birds. A youth section included 49 young falconers.

The festival culminated in two rounds of the King’s Sword, the toughest and most lucrative section of the Melwah competition, with total prize pools of SR925,000 for each round.

Barghash Al-Mansouri, who won the first round in the Shaheen and Hur categories, said his falcon SH13 had performed exceptionally well to clinch first place. He said the bird has great strength but can be affected by adverse wind conditions. On the day, however, conditions were favorable and it was able to maintain stability and perform at its best.

He added that he had expected Shama, a falcon owned by Fahd Al-Mansouri, to take the top spot but instead it finished second. He thanked the club for its exceptional efforts in organizing the festival and congratulated all the winners, noting that the competition grows stronger each year.

Talal Al-Shumaisi, CEO of the Saudi Falcons Club, thanked the Kingdom’s leaders for their support of falconry and its heritage, in particular Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, who is the club’s general supervisor. He also thanked Minister of Interior Prince Abdulaziz bin Saud bin Naif, the chairman of the board of directors of the club, for his support.


Princess Nourah University launches ‘Itar’ exhibition to highlight student filmmaking projects

Princess Nourah University launches ‘Itar’ exhibition to highlight student filmmaking projects
Updated 19 December 2024
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Princess Nourah University launches ‘Itar’ exhibition to highlight student filmmaking projects

Princess Nourah University launches ‘Itar’ exhibition to highlight student filmmaking projects
  • The exhibition features seven short films, each with distinct themes drawn from the cultural identity of the Kingdom

RIYADH: Princess Nourah bint Abdulrahman University, represented by the College of Design and Arts, has launched the “Itar Exhibition 2024” to feature the graduation projects of 26 students from the film production and animation program.

The exhibition, which is part of the Department of Film and Theater Arts’ graduation project course, features seven short films, each with distinct themes drawn from the cultural identity of the Kingdom.

The exhibition highlights the cognitive, technical, and creative skills developed by the graduates through their film projects, demonstrating their proficiency in applying creative and critical thinking methodologies.

The exhibition provides a platform for interaction and collaboration among graduates, university students, employers, industry professionals, researchers, partners, the business sector, and the broader community. It also prepares graduates to compete in the job market and venture into entrepreneurship.

Haya Al-Rashoud, head of the Department of Film and Theater Arts at PNU, said that the exhibition is part of the College of Design and Arts’ commitment to developing national talent. It aims to foster a supportive and inspiring environment for creativity, expertise, and specialized scientific skills, while aligning with the evolving demands of the labor market, particularly in the film industry.

The “Itar Exhibition 2024” at the College of Design and Arts reflects the objectives of PNU’s 2025 strategic plan, aiming to cultivate competitive talent and empower female students. It creates an educational environment that inspires creativity, enriches cultural and artistic expression, and promotes learning, research, and innovation. 

Additionally, it underscores the university’s commitment to advancing women’s leadership in driving development and progress.