From Electric to Hybrid: Kazakhstan’s Changing Auto Market
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In the first two months of 2026, sales of cars on new energy sources (NEV, including electric cars and rechargeable hybrids) increased sharply in Kazakhstan, the Automobile Union of Kazakhstan (KAO) reports. At the same time, hybrid cars saw significantly stronger growth compared to traditional electric cars, Orda.kz reports.
In January–February, official dealers sold 708 NEVs, which is 4.2 times more than a year ago. Of these, 438 units were rechargeable hybrids and 270 were battery electric cars. As a result, the NEV market share reached 2.6%. In addition, dealers sold 107 traditional hybrid cars (HEV), which are not included in the NEV category, as they involve refueling with gasoline and internal recuperation (conversion) of it into electricity when necessary. Most of the HEVs sold came from the Toyota model line.
The association notes the rapid development of the domestic NEV segment, as well as the growing interest of Kazakhstanis in rechargeable hybrids, which is due to the emergence of new players. Rechargeable hybrids combine the advantages of electric cars and a traditional engine, the union notes.
New energy cars are gradually strengthening their position in the world market. Electric cars in Kazakhstan also attract customers and become a practical choice for a wide audience. The share of NEV in the sales structure will grow, but in the coming years, pure electric cars may cede a significant part of the market to more versatile hybrids.said the head of the association, Anar Makasheva.
Among manufacturers, the leader at the beginning of the year was Chinese BYD with 428 cars sold. The top five also included Li Auto (164 cars), Zeekr (42), Geely Galaxy (28) and Rox (20).
Last summer, Senator Lyazzat Rysbekova called the global spread of electric cars, along with declining world oil prices, exchange rate fluctuations and increased public spending, one of the main threats to Kazakhstan's oil‑dependent economy.
Original author: Alexey Afonsky
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