No need to be new. It doesn't even need to be an EV. Just a car that's more efficient. It can be used, and/or smaller than a SUV/pickup truck.

Or, there may be other options like public transit or cycling. Or maybe even moving to a place where a car is not really a necessity most of the time. Some cities have car sharing companies to bridge the gap and only use a car when necessary.

In some other countries, they have accelerated their transition to renewable energy.

https://asianinsiders.com/2026/03/31/asia-energy-transition-plans-oil-crisis/

The priority for governments is getting through the current crisis, but many have also turned an eye to the future. Reducing dependence on oil imports is the only way to ensure a similar situation doesn’t happen again.

In nearly every Asian country, greater energy security starts with a successful energy transition. This is creating opportunities for overseas firms boasting tools, technology and knowledge in a wide range of areas.

Meanwhile other countries are just hoping for cheap gas, and some are even slowing down or are actively working against alternatives. Some presidents even go as far as pay more to cancel renewable energy contracts.

And I wasn't there but apparently there's been an oil crisis in 1970 that led to more efficient cars and reshaped the industry.

https://enginestories.com/history/oil-crisis-to-electric-revolution-how-fuel-shaped-car-design/

But I guess that no, of course there is simply no alternative to cheap gas.