A wave of panic over a possible petrol shortage has led to a sudden spike in enquiries for electric vehicles (EVs) in Chennai, highlighting how misinformation can quickly influence consumer behaviour.
The concern was fueled by escalating tensions between Iran and the United States, with reports of attacks on oil infrastructure sparking fears of global supply disruptions. Social media posts amplified these fears, with rumours suggesting India could soon face a petrol shortage.
The impact was visible across Chennai, where long queues formed at petrol bunks as anxious motorists rushed to fill their tanks.
“I didn’t want to take any risk. Everyone was saying petrol might run out, so I came early to fill up,” said Ramesh Kumar, a commuter in the city.
However, officials were quick to step in and reassure the public. Authorities clarified that India maintains sufficient fuel reserves to last over 70 days even in the event of temporary disruptions.
“There is absolutely no shortage of fuel. People should not panic or believe unverified information circulating online,” a senior official said.
Interestingly, the panic also triggered a sharp rise in interest in electric mobility. EV dealers across the city reported a noticeable increase in walk-ins and enquiries for electric cars and two-wheelers.
“We saw almost double the number of enquiries in just a couple of days. Many customers were first-time buyers exploring EVs as a backup option,” said a sales executive at a leading dealership.
Another dealer noted, “People are beginning to think long-term. Even though the panic may pass, the idea of not depending on petrol is appealing.”
While the fuel scare was largely driven by misinformation, it has unintentionally accelerated awareness about electric vehicles. Consumers are increasingly viewing EVs as a reliable alternative amid global uncertainties and rising fuel concerns.
Experts believe such incidents could play a role in shaping future mobility trends. “Events like this create awareness. People start asking questions about sustainability, cost savings, and independence from fossil fuels,” said an industry analyst.
Following official clarification, the situation at fuel stations has largely returned to normal, with queues easing across the city. However, the spike in EV interest suggests a deeper shift in public perception.
Though triggered by temporary panic, the episode underscores a growing inclination towards cleaner and more sustainable transport solutions, potentially giving a further push to India’s electric mobility transition.