Electric mobility in 2025: key advances, new challenges and innovative solutions

1. Volkswagen presents its most affordable electric vehicle

Volkswagen has revealed to its employees the design of its next electric car, which will have an approximate price of 20,000 euros. This model, intended exclusively for the European market, will be presented to the public in March and is expected to be available in 2027. The initiative seeks to compete with Tesla and the growing presence of Chinese manufacturers in the electric vehicle sector. Thomas Schäfer, CEO of the brand, highlighted Volkswagen’s commitment to accessible and high-quality electric mobility.

2. Proposal to revitalise the public bicycle service in Pontevedra

The PSOE of Pontevedra has proposed to reactivate the public bicycle service “PillaBici”, suspended in 2011, this time in electric version. The initiative includes the request for aid to the Ministry to implement the service and its integration into the single ticket system of metropolitan transport. In addition, the development of infrastructures to improve cyclist mobility is proposed, such as maintenance stations, parking lots and bike paths.

3. Advances in the charging infrastructure in Portugal

Galp has become the first operator in Portugal to implement a system that converts urban streetlights into charging points for electric cars. This initiative seeks to expand the urban electric charging network in an accessible and practical way, taking advantage of the existing public lighting infrastructure. It is especially useful in metropolitan areas such as Lisbon and Porto, where many homes do not have a garage.

4. Growth of electric carsharing in Spain

The Asturian shared electric mobility company, Guppy, has expanded to 560 vehicles after the acquisition of the Madrid company GoTo. This operation allows Guppy to increase its presence in Madrid and offer a new free fleet service, in addition to the parking model at base points. The guppy fleet is composed of 100% zero-emission electric vehicles, which can circulate without restrictions and park for free in Madrid.

5. Challenges in the expansion of the charging network in Spain

Although the network of charging points for electric vehicles in Spain grew significantly in 2024, the main operators point out significant delays in its installation due to administrative procedures. The deadlines from the start of a project until the charging point is operational can vary between 10 months and up to three years, especially in fast and ultra-fast charging stations. The need to simplify these processes to accelerate the implementation of the necessary infrastructure is highlighted.