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Looking Back: The EV Milestones That Shaped 2015
2015 was a pivotal year for the development of electric vehicles. A wave of announcements and launches helped EVs gain a stronger foothold in the automotive market. Here are some of the major highlights from the electric car year that was 2015:
🔋 Tesla Model X Launches
In September 2015, Tesla finally launched the long-awaited Model X, an all-electric SUV featuring its iconic "falcon-wing" doors. It was one of the first fully electric SUVs with solid range (up to 400 km, depending on the model). With seating for up to seven and advanced safety features, it marked an important step for electric family cars.
⚡ Nissan Leaf Gets a Bigger Battery
Nissan upgraded the Leaf with a 30 kWh battery, offering a rated range of around 250 km (NEDC). This was a solid improvement from the previous 24 kWh version, making the Leaf more appealing for daily commuting and short road trips.
🌍 New Players Enter the EV Arena
2015 also marked a turning point as several traditional automakers announced their EV ambitions:
Chevrolet announced the Bolt EV, with a promised range of over 300 km at an affordable price. Production was set for 2016.
Porsche unveiled the Mission E concept, a fully electric sports car that would later become the Taycan.
Audi presented the e-tron quattro concept, laying the foundation for their first electric SUV.
🚗 BMW i3 and the Competition Gain Momentum
The BMW i3 had already attracted attention with its futuristic design and carbon-fiber body. In 2015, it became one of the best-selling EVs in several European markets. Other automakers began offering improved range and fast-charging options, broadening the EV lineup.
📈 EV Sales Accelerate
Global EV sales surged in 2015, surpassing 500,000 units—almost double the figure from the previous year. In Norway, EVs accounted for over 20% of all new car sales, solidifying the country’s leadership in electric mobility.
🚧 Charging Infrastructure Expands
Tesla continued expanding its Supercharger network across Europe and North America. At the same time, public fast-charging networks gained traction, with operators like Fortum Charge & Drive and Grønn Kontakt (now Mer) building out infrastructure in Norway.
All in all, 2015 was a true breakthrough year for electric vehicles—featuring new models, major tech advancements, and a surge in charging infrastructure. It marked the beginning of what would become the EV decade.
Translations: Norsk
