The Spanish dealers' association, FACONAUTO, forecasts that 23,000 pure electric vehicles will be sold in the country in 2021, a 50% increase over the previous year. However, this figure represents only 2% of total vehicle registrations. One of the main drawbacks highlighted by both experts and consumers is the lack of adequate charging infrastructure. The European Automobile Manufacturers' Association (ACEA) reports only 7,500 public charging points in Spain. Approximately 80% of electric vehicle charging takes place at home or work, as there are not enough fast-charging points available to meet the needs of the population. The total number of charging stations in Spain is very low for the second largest country in Europe, and far behind the 70,000 chargers in the Netherlands, the 46,000 in France, or the 45,000 in Germany.
“Expanding the number of charging points is essential to encourage the adoption of electric vehicles in Spain. Consumers still have concerns about electric car range and want a charging station nearby, which is why charging points at home or work are so important,” explains Henrik Bergman, Market Director for Spain and Portugal at Charge Amps. “Several companies have already announced their contribution to improving the charging network by installing stations at gas stations, service stations, and other key locations. However, this improvement must also be complemented by private initiatives. Electric car owners need to be aware of the importance of having their own charging point, and companies should incentivize sustainable mobility by offering their employees charging stations in their parking facilities.”
Public and private electric vehicle charging: the key to success.
Spain aims to exceed 100,000 electric vehicle chargers by 2023 and 340,000 by 2030. Currently, drivers primarily use charging points available in supermarkets and shopping centers, as well as those installed on public roads in municipalities. They demand more infrastructure in leisure areas such as restaurants, tourist areas, and cultural venues, so they can charge their vehicles while shopping or visiting the city.
However, the growth of the electric vehicle market cannot depend entirely on the availability of public charging. Drivers need solutions that allow them to have their cars ready for any eventuality. Therefore, the installation of private chargers in parking areas of apartment buildings or homes, and at workplaces, is essential.
“Installing private charging stations is key to boosting the electric vehicle market, and now is the time to take the plunge. Currently, the Moves III plan launched by the Spanish government can finance up to 70% of the cost of installing an electric charger. This encourages people to prepare their garages for the future, even those who aren't planning to buy an electric vehicle immediately,” explains Bergman from Charge Amps. “Businesses can also take advantage of the benefits offered by the new sustainable mobility plan to upgrade their facilities and actively contribute to the shift.”
Private electric vehicle chargers guarantee safe, efficient, and controlled charging. Having a charging station reduces charging time and prevents overloading of home or community electrical systems, which can be caused by cables supplied by manufacturers that connect directly to 230V outlets. Furthermore, smart, connected charging points like those from Charge Amps provide complete control over charging. Charging can be programmed for off-peak hours, calculating total consumption, or remotely activated and deactivated to keep the vehicle always ready, thus optimizing electricity use and improving both economic and environmental impact.
