Astana-Almaty train becomes first in Kazakhstan to offer onboard internet
Passengers traveling on the Astana-Almaty train can now enjoy internet access, making it the first train in Kazakhstan to provide this service as part of a pilot project.
Kazakhstan’s EV market surges 60% in a year, driven by duty-free imports and rising Chinese EV popularity. Almaty leads registrations with 7,309 vehicles.
Kazakhstan's electric vehicle (EV) market is experiencing significant growth, with the number of registered electric vehicles increasing by over 60% in just one year, according to the Bureau of National Statistics.
By December 1, 2024, the total number of registered electric vehicles—including cars, trucks, and buses—had reached 12,587, up from 7,680 the previous year. The largest increase came from passenger cars, which jumped from 7,383 to 12,119 units.
Almaty, the country’s largest city, is leading in electric car registrations, with 7,309 EVs, while the capital, Astana, follows with 1,510. These figures reflect a growing interest in green transportation across the country.
According to the Energyprom analytical website, this surge in EV registrations can be largely attributed to the decision by the Eurasian Economic Commission’s Council to extend the duty-free import of electric vehicles until the end of 2025. This exemption from customs duties provides a 15% savings on the vehicle’s customs value, significantly lowering the cost of importing EVs and making them more accessible to Kazakhstanis.
A notable trend in Kazakhstan’s electric vehicle market is the increasing share of Chinese-made EVs. According to the Kazakhstan Automobile Union, the market share of Chinese vehicles has risen dramatically, from 10% three years ago to 39% today.
Experts explain that the growing popularity of Chinese electric vehicles in Kazakhstan is driven by a combination of factors. The competitive pricing of these vehicles, along with government support for green mobility, technological advancements, and an expanding selection of models, make them an attractive choice for many buyers.
As public acceptance of electric vehicles increases and government policies continue to favor green transportation, experts predict that the presence of Chinese EVs in Kazakhstan will only grow in the coming months.
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Passengers traveling on the Astana-Almaty train can now enjoy internet access, making it the first train in Kazakhstan to provide this service as part of a pilot project.
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