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Bolivia’s fuel shortages and 'junk gasoline' drive a surge in electric cars

Bolivia’s fuel shortages and 'junk gasoline' drive a surge in electric cars

A small but growing number of Bolivians are trading their fossil fuel-powered vehicles for electric ones
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Fuel Shortages in Bolivia Propel Electric Vehicle Adoption

Fuel Shortages in Bolivia Propel Electric Vehicle Adoption

Bolivia is experiencing a surge in electric vehicle adoption due to fuel shortages and increased gasoline prices. The country has faced energy supply disruptions, exacerbated by the repeal of fuel subsidies by President Rodrigo Paz, which doubled gasoline costs. As a result, Bolivians are increasingly turning to electric vehicles, with imports primarily from China and the United States. The number of electric vehicles has grown significantly, driven by the need to avoid long lines at gas stations and the poor quality of gasoline.
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Fuel shortages and high prices push adoption of EVs in Africa, led by Ethiopia

Fuel shortages and high prices push adoption of EVs in Africa, led by Ethiopia

Use of electric vehicles in Africa is surging, led by Ethiopia, as soaring prices and fuel shortages compel countries to opt for cleaner and cheaper transport
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Ethiopia's Shift to Electric Vehicles Amid Fuel Shortages and High Prices

Ethiopia's Shift to Electric Vehicles Amid Fuel Shortages and High Prices

Ethiopia is leading a surge in electric vehicle (EV) adoption across Africa, driven by fuel shortages and high prices. The country has banned new imports of gas and diesel-powered vehicles since 2024, resulting in over 115,000 EVs on its roads, which now account for about 8% of the national fleet. This shift is part of Ethiopia's strategy to reduce reliance on costly fuel imports and strengthen energy security, especially as the ongoing conflict in Iran disrupts oil shipments through the Strait of Hormuz. Ethiopia's government is promoting EVs as a sustainable alternative, leveraging its renewable energy resources, including the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam, to power these vehicles. However, challenges remain in scaling up charging infrastructure and making EVs affordable for the general population.
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Newsom Rejects Gas Tax Suspension in California

Newsom Rejects Gas Tax Suspension in California

California Governor Gavin Newsom has decided against suspending the state gas tax despite the state's drivers facing the highest gas prices in the nation. The average price per gallon in California has reached $6.16, significantly higher than the national average of $4.54. Newsom attributes the rising costs to President Trump's policies, particularly in relation to the conflict in Iran, which has affected global oil supplies. Critics argue that California's own energy policies, including high fuel taxes and environmental regulations, are exacerbating the situation. The state's reliance on imported crude oil, especially from regions affected by geopolitical tensions, further complicates the issue. Industry experts warn that prices could rise even higher if current trends continue.
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Iran Conflict Prompts Major Shifts in Global Energy Markets, Oil Executives Warn

Iran Conflict Prompts Major Shifts in Global Energy Markets, Oil Executives Warn

The ongoing conflict involving Iran has led to significant disruptions in global energy markets, particularly due to the blockade of the Strait of Hormuz, a critical chokepoint for oil transportation. Oil executives from major companies have indicated that this situation is prompting a reevaluation of energy security strategies worldwide. The shortage of oil has highlighted vulnerabilities in the global energy supply chain, leading to increased investments in oil exploration and production, as well as in low-carbon solutions like nuclear and geothermal energy. The conflict has also underscored the need for diversified energy sources to reduce reliance on any single region.
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Whirlpool Stock Hits 15-Year Low Amid Iran War and Economic Challenges

Whirlpool Stock Hits 15-Year Low Amid Iran War and Economic Challenges

Whirlpool Stock Hits 15-Year Low Amid Iran War and Economic Challenges
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Rio Tinto Evaluates Increasing Stake in Argentina's Los Azules Copper Project Amid Rising Demand

Rio Tinto Evaluates Increasing Stake in Argentina's Los Azules Copper Project Amid Rising Demand

Rio Tinto Evaluates Increasing Stake in Argentina's Los Azules Copper Project Amid Rising Demand
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Energy Secretary Wright Open to Ideas Amid Gas Tax Suspension Calls

Energy Secretary Wright Open to Ideas Amid Gas Tax Suspension Calls

Energy Secretary Chris Wright has expressed openness to various ideas in response to calls for suspending the gas tax. In an interview on Meet the Press, Wright emphasized the Trump administration's focus on ending Iran's nuclear program and ensuring secure shipping through the Strait of Hormuz. These geopolitical tensions are contributing to elevated gas prices in the short term. The discussion comes as the administration faces pressure to address rising fuel costs, with some lawmakers advocating for a temporary suspension of the federal gas tax to provide relief to consumers.
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China's Oil Stockpiling and U.S. Sanctions to Influence Trump-Xi Summit

China's Oil Stockpiling and U.S. Sanctions to Influence Trump-Xi Summit

China has been quietly amassing the world's largest stockpile of crude oil, a strategic move that is reshaping its relations with the United States. This development comes as Chinese Premier Xi Jinping prepares to host President Trump for a state visit on May 14 and 15. The situation is further complicated by China's Commerce Ministry's decision to ban Chinese companies from complying with U.S. sanctions on small refineries that purchase Iranian crude. These 'teapot refineries' have been encouraged to import Iranian oil, which could lead to further U.S. sanctions. The U.S. Energy Information Administration reports that China added an average of 1.1 million barrels per day to its strategic reserves in 2025, with continued growth in 2026. This stockpiling has helped stabilize oil prices amid Middle East tensions, providing a buffer for Asian importers affected by the halt in energy deliveries.
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Lucid Installs 100 Free EV Chargers in Saudi Arabia Amid Growing Electric Vehicle Market

Lucid Installs 100 Free EV Chargers in Saudi Arabia Amid Growing Electric Vehicle Market

Lucid, an electric vehicle manufacturer, has installed 100 free EV chargers in Saudi Arabia, enhancing the country's public charging infrastructure. This initiative is part of a broader effort to promote electric vehicle adoption in the region, where many public charging points are already available at no cost to users. The move aligns with Saudi Arabia's investment in electric vehicle infrastructure, supported by the Public Investment Fund (PIF), which aims to establish 5,000 fast chargers across 1,000 locations by the end of the decade. Lucid's expansion in Saudi Arabia is bolstered by significant investments from the PIF, reflecting the country's commitment to diversifying its energy sources.