Volkswagen (VW) ceased the sales of Internal Combustion Engine (ICE) cars in Norway on 21st October 2023, reflecting a broader shift towards electric vehicles (EVs) in Europe ahead of planned political bans on ICE vehicles. The transition to EVs is outpacing the proposed bans in several European countries, with Norway, Sweden, Denmark, and Germany showing significant EV adoption. As VW navigates the competitive EV landscape in Norway against rivals like Tesla and new entrant BYD, its decision might prompt other automakers to follow suit, potentially making Norway a blueprint for other markets in Europe. This move by VW exemplifies the accelerating pace of the transition to sustainable transportation in the region.
Volkswagen's (VW) journey towards electric vehicle (EV) production faces hurdles as a recent IT glitch halts production, adding to previous challenges of part shortages and transport issues. While Tesla thrives, reducing debt and increasing production, VW's debt surges and its EV production lags behind targets. The delay of VW's Trinity platform and a new factory till 2029 further hampers its progress in the EV race against Tesla, reflecting a contrast in operational efficiency and fulfillment of promises between the two automakers.