Electric mobility: a great opportunity for Spain

Despite previous successes, the current state of e-mobility in Spain does not shine with the same intensity, especially compared to our European counterparts.

June 16, 2024 - On the path to sustainability, one of the sectors under severe scrutiny is transportation, particularly road transport. Given its significance as one of the largest emitters of CO2, accounting for nearly 30 percent of total greenhouse gas emissions, it has become the subject of in-depth analysis and urgent calls for action.

Until recently, my professional focus was on the energy sector and the expansion of renewable energy sources. However, I have decided to redirect my attention to the transportation sector, recognizing the inherent potential of these energies in facilitating the electrification of transportation and other energy end uses. This shift in focus is based on its clear benefit in terms of decarbonization, especially at this crucial time in the energy transition.

Spain, recognized for its leading role in the global expansion of renewable energy, has a solid technical basis for deepening the electrification of transportation. Moreover, it has demonstrated its ability to lead and serve as a model. Having the clear formula for success, which requires the alignment of the entire country system toward this goal, it is critical to move forward with firmness and determination.

However, despite previous successes, the current state of electric mobility in Spain does not shine with the same intensity, especially compared to our European counterparts. Currently, the electric vehicle accounts for just 5 percent of the national market share, a figure that pales in comparison to countries such as Sweden, with an impressive 38.5 percent, or Finland, with a solid 33 percent. The country is significantly below the European average, set at 20 percent, and this reality is compounded by the fact that we are one of the countries with the oldest vehicle fleets. In this context, the need for decisive and coordinated actions to accelerate the transition to more sustainable mobility becomes even more evident .

Electric charging infrastructure emerges as the key pillar in the transition to electric mobility. Although there has been a significant increase in the number of charging points in Spain, which amount to about 30,000, according to AEDIVE data, this figure still places us far behind neighboring countries such as France or Italy. Despite the efforts and public investment devoted to its implementation, the reality is that this infrastructure deficit is making it considerably difficult to achieve the European goals agreed upon in the Fit for 55 package.

To enrich the debate, I would like to highlight some measures that, if prioritized and pursued consistently, could accelerate the transition to electric mobility. With regard to charging infrastructure, it would be necessary to further simplify procedures for obtaining authorizations, rationalize connections to the electricity grid, encourage diversification of operators beyond large energy companies, and review incentive plans. Regarding electric vehicles, it is crucial to promote the availability of affordable mid-range and low-end models, as well as to maintain and increase incentives for the purchase of electric vehicles, both for private use and for fleet and commercial purposes.

On this path toward more sustainable mobility, it is essential that Spain firmly maintain its leadership and take these actions with the urgency and consistency needed to ensure a greener future for all.

This news was published in EL CONFIDENCIAL