Dubai-based start-up Peec Mobility is set to disrupt the electric vehicle (EV) market with its innovative approach to producing EVs from repurposed petrol-powered cars.
With a starting price of Dh70,000, the company’s ReCar.03 model is projected to be 50 percent cheaper than newly-manufactured EVs. Deliveries of these repurposed vehicles are scheduled to begin in the second quarter of 2025.
A Groundbreaking Approach to Electric Vehicles
Peec Mobility, founded by UAE-born Zach Faizal, has introduced its ReCar.03 prototype at the Intelligent Transport Systems (ITS) World Congress and Exhibition, currently taking place at the Dubai World Trade Centre.
The ReCar.03 is a notable example of how traditional internal combustion engine vehicles can be transformed into modern electric cars. The prototype on display is a converted Toyota Camry, showcasing the potential of this novel technology.
Faizal emphasized the significance of this development: “We’ve been developing our latest iteration of the ReCar for some time. We’re close to production with orders due to be delivered in Q2 2025, so this is a big step in the future of mobility as it allows us to share the ReCar with valuable customers.”
Cost-Efficiency and Environmental Benefits
The ReCar initiative is not just about affordability but also about sustainability. Peec Mobility’s approach involves repurposing old petrol or diesel vehicles by retaining their body and chassis and converting them into electric vehicles.
This method results in a 30 percent reduction in manufacturing costs and an 80 percent decrease in production time compared to new electric models.
The ReCar.03 is designed to offer up to 300 kilometers on a full charge, making it a competitive alternative to new EVs, which typically start at Dh100,000.
Peec Mobility’s focus on using recyclable materials for the car’s interior and incorporating advanced Human Machine Interface (HMI) software ensures that the ReCar.03 provides a “new car” feel while eliminating harmful carbon emissions.
A Vision for the Future
Peec Mobility’s mission extends beyond just providing affordable electric vehicles. The company aims to extend the lifecycle of retired petrol vehicles and offer a cost-effective alternative for both individuals and businesses looking to transition to environmentally-friendly transportation. Faizal’s vision aligns with the UAE’s broader sustainability goals.
“We want to reach the Net Zero goals (cutting of carbon emissions to a residual amount that can be absorbed by nature) by 2030 twice and faster,” Faizal explained.
“Through our technology of repurposing vehicles, we can aim to reduce 23 percent of emissions from the transportation sector by 2030 by implementing a policy to repurpose just five percent of the existing vehicles on the road every year for the next six years.”
Government and Global Ambitions
Faizal has expressed a strong desire to collaborate with the UAE government to scale up the vehicle conversion process.
His goal is to establish a replicable model that could be adopted globally, further supporting the UAE’s Net Zero targets. “Our ambition is to support the UAE Net Zero goal,” he reiterated.
The potential impact of this technology on global emissions reduction is substantial. By re-engineering existing vehicles rather than manufacturing new ones, Peec Mobility aims to offer a more sustainable and economical solution to the growing demand for electric vehicles.
Growing EV Adoption in Dubai
Dubai’s commitment to expanding its EV infrastructure is evident from recent statistics. As of April 2024, the number of EVs registered in Dubai has surged to over 30,000, nearly doubling the 15,100 EVs reported at the end of 2023, according to the Dubai Electricity & Water Authority (DEWA). This increase reflects the city’s push towards adopting greener technologies and reducing its carbon footprint.
The UAE has set an ambitious target to have electric vehicles comprise 50 percent of all vehicles on the roads by 2050. Peec Mobility’s affordable EVs could play a crucial role in achieving this goal by making electric transportation more accessible to a broader segment of the population.
Challenges and Opportunities
Despite the promising outlook, Peec Mobility faces challenges typical of the start-up sector. Scaling up production to meet anticipated demand, ensuring consistent quality in repurposed vehicles, and navigating regulatory frameworks are crucial hurdles.
However, the company’s innovative approach and alignment with the UAE’s sustainability goals provide a strong foundation for overcoming these obstacles.
Conclusion
Peec Mobility’s ReCar.03 represents a significant leap forward in the evolution of electric vehicles.
By transforming existing petrol cars into affordable, eco-friendly EVs, the start-up is not only offering a more cost-effective alternative to new electric vehicles but also contributing to global emissions reduction goals.
As the company prepares for production and delivery, its success could pave the way for a new era in sustainable transportation, blending affordability with environmental responsibility.
The future of mobility in Dubai and beyond looks promising, with Peec Mobility at the forefront of this exciting transition.