Challenges and Strategies for Adopting Electric Vehicles in Iran to Mitigate Megacity Pollution

Electric vehicles (EVs) are emerging as a cornerstone in global efforts to decarbonize the transportation sector, offering a highly efficient and environmentally sustainable alternative to internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles. EVs convert up to ۷۷% of grid electricity into wheel motion, compared to only ۱۵–۲۰% for ICEs, and they recapture kinetic energy through regenerative braking. This study reviews key energy recovery and emission reduction technologies, including waste heat utilization, vibration and braking energy harvesting, and the integration of renewable power sources. “Next-generation” EVs—defined as electric vehicles featuring advanced battery systems (such as solid-state or high-performance lithium-ion), faster charging, AI-enhanced autonomy (Level ۴+), and digital connectivity—are poised to amplify these gains. Focusing specifically on Iran, this paper provides a comprehensive analysis of the country's evolving EV strategy within the context of global technological trends and climate goals. Iran's automotive sector, producing approximately ۱.۲ million vehicles annually, is undergoing a strategic transformation to include domestically produced EVs. Key milestones include the ۲۰۲۳ unveiling of the Tara EV, the planned production of three new domestic models by ۲۰۲۴, and the electrification of ۲,۵۰۰ public transport vehicles. Nationwide infrastructure goals—such as installing ۳,۰۰۰ charging stations by ۲۰۲۵ and deploying ۱۰۰,۰۰۰ electric taxis in major cities—underscore Iran’s commitment to sustainable mobility. By integrating global advances in EV technologies with Iran’s policy initiatives, industrial capabilities, and market developments, this study outlines a clear pathway toward a competitive and eco-efficient electric vehicle industry in the country. Visual aids, including comparative energy efficiency charts, an EV adoption roadmap, and market data tables, are proposed to further illustrate both technological impacts and Iran-specific progress. These insights contribute to a deeper understanding of how emerging economies can align national development with international sustainability standards.

Keywords:

Electric vehicles (EVs) , Sustainable Transportation , Environmental pollution reduction