Consumer interest in electric vehicles has jumped sharply across Europe following the outbreak of conflict in Iran in late February, which effectively shut down the Strait of Hormuz — a critical chokepoint for global oil and gas exports — sending petrol prices soaring. Online car marketplaces in the UK, Germany, France, and Spain reported inquiry increases ranging from 20% to 160% for electric vehicles between February and March, while interest in petrol and diesel cars declined. Industry observers say the crisis is forcing consumers to weigh the total cost of ownership for the first time, though experts caution that whether the spike translates into lasting behavioural change remains uncertain.