Electric cars in Spain: are drivers ready for eco-friendly mobility

What are the challenges faced by those wishing to buy an electric car in Spain?

Interest in electric cars around the world is growing amid rising fuel prices and stricter environmental regulations. However, Spain cannot yet boast a high level of electric car sales: the share of hybrids and electric cars here in 2023 was only 12%, according to the European Automobile Manufacturers Association (ACEA). This is less than in neighboring European countries. The main "pains" of potential buyers are related to:

• Low availability of charging infrastructure. Despite the gradual expansion of the network, there are still not enough charging stations, especially for long-distance trips.
• Difficulties with installing chargers at home. Many residential buildings in Spain lack personal parking spaces, which makes it difficult to install wall-mounted stations.
• High purchase cost. Prices for electric cars are still higher than those of analogues with a traditional engine, although government support partially compensates for this difference.
• Limited autonomy. On long trips, it is important to plan the route, given that there may not be enough fast charging stations in some areas.

How the state solves these problems

The Spanish government is taking steps to increase the number of electric cars and stimulate their purchase. The main support mechanisms are:

• Moves III Program. Buyers of electric cars and plug-in hybrids (PHEV) can receive subsidies of up to 7,000 euros if they hand in an old car for scrapping. This reduces the financial burden associated with the higher cost of an electric car.
• Tax benefits. Owners of electric cars are exempt from paying the special tax on certain means of transport (IEDMT). For cars with a gasoline engine, this tax can reach 14.75%, while for electric cars it is 0%.
• Reduction of the annual vehicle tax. In a number of cities (for example, Madrid, Barcelona, Valencia), the tax rate on electric cars can be reduced by up to 75%. Also, some municipalities provide free parking and preferential access to low-emission zones.
• Stimulating charging infrastructure. Through special programs, the installation of new stations is subsidized. Private initiatives of shopping centers, supermarkets, and gas stations are also welcome.

The cost of charging an electric car and the factors affecting it

Most future owners are worried about the cost of "refueling" an electric car. Compared to gasoline or diesel, electricity costs can indeed be lower under the following conditions:

• Cost of 1 kWh in Spain. It ranges on average from 0.1 to 0.3 euros. Installing a home charger allows you to charge your car at a cheaper night rate.
• Car energy consumption. It is usually between 15 and 30 kWh per 100 km. In reality, this figure depends on driving style, car weight, weather conditions, and speed.
• Choosing the type of charging (alternating current or direct current). Charging from a household outlet is slow, but cheaper. Fast stations (direct current) save time, but the cost of 1 kWh is usually higher there.

Ultimately, with proper trip planning and a home charger, costs can be significantly reduced. For comparison: with a consumption of 20 kWh per 100 km and a price of 0.25 euros per kWh, each 100 km of travel will cost only 5 euros.

Example of charging time calculation

Formula for calculating the approximate charging time:

• Charging time = (Battery capacity (kWh) / Charging power (kW)) × 100%

For example, an electric car with a 50 kWh battery charging at a power of 150 kW would theoretically need about 20 minutes to reach 80% capacity. However, after reaching this level, the process may be slower to preserve battery life.

Tax benefits and advantages when buying an electric car in Spain

In addition to the Moves III program, there are other financial incentives:

• Exemption from IEDMT (special tax on certain means of transport). Zero CO2 emissions mean a zero tax rate. In comparison, a car with emissions of 170 g of CO2/km can be subject to a tax of almost 2,000 euros.
• Reduced annual vehicle tax. Depending on the municipality, the owner of an electric car can expect a discount of up to 75% on the road tax.
• Income tax deduction. If the buyer works officially and submits a tax return, it is possible to get a deduction of up to 15% when buying an electric car.

Thus, the combination of subsidies and benefits significantly reduces the price difference between an electric car and classic models.

How to properly evaluate the potential of an electric car

The main recommendation when buying an electric car is to compare its capabilities with your needs. If frequent long-distance trips are planned, it is necessary to carefully study the map of charging stations. For urban use, electric cars are ideal, providing:

• Reduced costs for daily travel.
• Benefits and simplified access to low-emission zones.
• Reduced maintenance costs, since an electric motor has fewer parts that require frequent replacement.

The role of charging infrastructure when choosing a home

Those who buy real estate in Spain (for example, a house or an apartment with parking) should take into account the possibility of installing a charger. If the housing is located in an apartment complex without individual parking spaces, you will have to additionally agree on the installation of a wall-mounted station (wallbox). This is especially important for those who plan to actively use an electric car and charge it mainly at home.

Advantages and disadvantages: a summary

• Advantages. Benefits in registration, lower charging costs (compared to gasoline), environmental benefits, and no restrictions in zero-emission zones.
• Disadvantages. High initial cost, lack of fast charging stations in some regions, difficulty installing home charging in old houses, and inevitable battery degradation.

Conclusion

Spain is gradually moving towards environmentally friendly mobility, incentivizing buyers with tax breaks and subsidies. However, for many families, price and imperfect charging infrastructure remain key barriers. If you are planning to settle in Spain and are thinking about buying an electric car, carefully study government support programs, check the availability of charging stations in the area of your future residence, and assess your own travel needs. In the long run, an electric car can be economically viable, especially with the right choice and thoughtful operation.