A Comprehensive Strategy for Sustainable Mobility
The Government of Catalonia has launched its Electric Vehicle Promotion Plan 2025-2030, an ambitious initiative aimed at accelerating the region’s transition towards sustainable and zero-emission mobility. With an investment of over €1.4 billion—mobilized from both public and private sources—the plan sets out to triple the penetration of electric vehicles (EVs) and double the number of public charging stations by 2030.
Presented by President Salvador Illa, the plan represents a structured and coordinated effort to decarbonize Catalonia’s transport sector, a critical step toward achieving European Green Deal and Fit for 55 objectives.
Key Objectives
The plan is structured around five core objectives that aim to increase EV adoption, expand charging infrastructure, and strengthen the local EV industry:
- Increase EV market penetration: The plan aims to triple the number of EVs on Catalonia’s roads to align with the European average.
- Expand charging infrastructure: The government will double the number of public charging stations, prioritizing fast and ultra-fast chargers.
- Electrify the government’s vehicle fleet: By 2030, 90% of the Generalitat’s fleet will be electrified.
- Raise awareness about EV benefits: Public outreach campaigns will highlight the advantages of electric mobility for individuals and businesses.
- Strengthen the local EV supply chain: The plan will support the automotive and component industries, fostering innovation in battery technology, semiconductors, and smart mobility solutions.
Key Actions & Measures
1. Expanding Charging Infrastructure
To address one of the main barriers to EV adoption, the plan prioritizes the development of a unified, accessible, and efficient charging network:
- Guaranteeing sufficient grid capacity: Investments will be made to modernize and expand the electricity distribution network in metropolitan areas, major highways, industrial zones, and rural locations.
- Financial incentives: Companies, institutions, and homeowners' associations will receive subsidies and low-interest loans to install private and public charging points.
- Public charging deployment: The Generalitat will expand its own network of fast-charging points across roads, railway stations, ports, and government facilities.
- A unified charging network: A feasibility study will explore the development of an integrated, capillary charging network to ensure reliable and convenient access for all users.
2. Boosting EV Adoption
To stimulate demand, the government is introducing financial and policy incentives that make EVs more affordable and attractive:
- Purchase incentives and social credit schemes: Financial support to reduce the upfront cost of EVs, targeting individuals and businesses.
- Support for business fleets: A dedicated credit line will assist small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in transitioning their fleets to electric.
- Electrification of public fleets: The Generalitat will lead by example, committing to 90% electrification of its vehicle fleet.
- Tax benefits and toll discounts: New tax incentives and reduced toll fees will make EV ownership more cost-effective.
3. Raising Public Awareness
Public perception remains a key challenge for EV adoption. The plan includes targeted education and awareness campaigns to encourage confidence in electric mobility:
- Public information campaigns: Highlighting the economic and environmental benefits of EVs.
- Business engagement: Awareness programs tailored for corporate fleets and logistics operators.
4. Strengthening the EV Industry & Innovation
The plan aims to position Catalonia as a hub for EV manufacturing and innovation, leveraging its existing industrial and technological base:
- Investment in local supply chains: Support for the development of batteries, semiconductors, and smart mobility solutions.
- Pilot projects & R&D initiatives: Funding for technology demonstrations and innovation pilots in electric mobility.
- Workforce training: Specialized programs to upskill workers in EV technology and sustainable transport solutions.
5. Enhancing Governance & Public-Private Collaboration
To ensure effective implementation, the plan includes strong governance mechanisms and industry partnerships:
- Cross-departmental coordination: The Generalitat will establish a dedicated EV governance body, involving multiple government departments.
- Public-private partnerships: Investments in EVs and infrastructure will be co-financed through private-sector collaborations.
- Regulatory streamlining: Simplification of permitting and grid connection processes to accelerate infrastructure deployment.
Projected Impact & Expected Outcomes
By 2030, the plan is expected to deliver significant economic, environmental, and social benefits:
🔹150,000 new EV registrations, including motorcycles and fleet vehicles.🔹9,000 new public charging points, ensuring widespread availability.🔹470,000 tons of CO2 savings, significantly reducing transport emissions.🔹Expansion of EV-related industries, fostering innovation and job creation in battery production, electronics, and digital mobility solutions.🔹New business models centered around charging infrastructure and mobility services, creating opportunities for municipalities and private operators.
Aligning Catalonia with European Climate Goals
This initiative is designed to align Catalonia with EU sustainability targets, addressing the region’s electrification deficit and closing the gap with leading European EV markets. The Fit for 55 package calls for 40% EV market share by 2030, while Catalonia currently sits at 13.8%.
By accelerating EV adoption and infrastructure development, the Electric Vehicle Promotion Plan 2025-2030 positions Catalonia as a leader in sustainable mobility, driving economic growth, industrial innovation, and environmental progress.
Conclusion
The Catalan government’s €1.4 billion investment reflects a strong commitment to clean mobility, ensuring that residents, businesses, and local industries benefit from the transition. With a focus on accessibility, affordability, and industry development, the Electric Vehicle Promotion Plan 2025-2030 is a decisive step toward a greener, more competitive future.
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Views and opinions expressed are those of the author(s) and do not reflect those of the European Commission.
