First electric cars designed for Gulf to be built in Qatar

Qatar is set to become home to the nation's first electric vehicle factory, designed specifically to cater to the region's unique climate and conditions. The UK-based WATT Electric Vehicle Company and Doha-based JTA International Investment Holding have teamed up to create the plant, which will manufacture a new generation of electric vehicles tailored for the Gulf's demanding environment.

A state-of-the-art manufacturing facility will initially focus on meeting local demand before eventually expanding exports to other GCC countries and selected international markets. This initiative aims to bolster regional supply chains, spur research and development, and foster the growth of a localised advanced manufacturing sector. It will also play a crucial role in developing the skilled workforce needed for Qatar's evolving industrial economy.

WATT's founder Neil Yates revealed that the company's engineers have developed electric cars "specifically for the Gulf’s demanding environmental conditions." This includes advanced heat management and battery performance optimized for extreme temperatures, as well as taking into account the region's unique usage patterns and customer preferences.

JTA's founder and CEO Dr Amir Ali Salemi Zadeh emphasized that the EVs will be "engineered around local operating conditions, the region’s demanding climate, and the expectations of customers across Qatar and the GCC." This project aligns with Qatar National Vision 2030, which seeks to transition the country's economy away from its heavy reliance on oil and gas.

The goal is to establish a globally competitive electric vehicle-manufacturing platform that puts Qatar at the forefront of advanced manufacturing, clean mobility, and automotive innovation, while ensuring sustainable long-term value for future generations.

The GCC electric car market is rapidly growing, with a current value of $11.64 billion and projected to reach $31.66 billion by 2031, according to Mordor Intelligence. Analysts attribute this growth to national diversification goals such as Saudi Vision 2030 and UAE Net Zero 2050. JTA Investment Holding is a global firm with strategic partnerships and operations in over 50 countries.

WATT's engineering prowess was recently recognized when its PACES platform was awarded the Innovation Award at the Autocar Awards, judged alongside Siemens.