Spain will channel an impressive R27.6 billion into its electric vehicle (EV) sector next year, as part of a bold initiative to ensure that 95% of vehicles produced in the country are electric by 2035, Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez confirmed recently.
Current figures highlight the scale of the challenge: during the first ten months of 2025, only 10% of vehicles manufactured in Spain were fully electric or plug-in hybrids, while self-charging hybrids accounted for 26.7%. By comparison, across the European Union, around 20% of vehicles sold last year fell into the fully electric or plug-in hybrid category.
The Spanish government’s plan includes R8.5 billion in direct subsidies for consumers purchasing EVs in 2026, alongside R12.3 billion through an EU-backed programme to stimulate industrial investment. A further R6.4 billion will be allocated to expanding charging infrastructure along roads that remain underserved.
This decisive move comes as Chinese EV giants such as BYD gain ground in Europe, undercutting local manufacturers and exploiting Spain’s lack of a dominant domestic car brand. Sánchez stressed that the strategy is designed to protect jobs during the transition to EV production and to maintain Spain’s status as Europe’s second-largest car producer.
Foreign investment is already reshaping Spain’s battery industry, with projects like Chinese firm CATL’s R85 billion plant in partnership with Stellantis creating thousands of jobs. However, Sánchez cautioned that without robust domestic support, Spain risks losing technological expertise and market share.
Under the roadmap, Spain aims for 100% electrified vehicle sales by 2035, signalling a transformative shift towards sustainable transport.
Mahindra South Africa has introduced the Bolero MaXX Pik Up, a new addition to its single cab range. The model joins the existing Pik Up S4 and S6 line up and is aimed at expanding Mahindra's portfolio of purpose-built transport solutions in the country.
With forecasts of snow, icy rain and stormy weather across the country, motorists are urged to drive carefully and adapt their driving style to suit the conditions.
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I have bad reflexes. I was once run over by a car being pushed by two guys
Woody Allen
Zero Carbon Charge (CHARGE), which is building a national network of off grid, ultra-fast EV charging stations powered by renewable energy, has welcomed the latest new energy vehicle (NEV) sales figures, saying they confirm a trend it has tracked for several years.
South Africa's transition towards electrified mobility continued to gain momentum during June 2026, with 3 045 new energy vehicles (NEVs) sold, representing a 104.2% increase compared to the 1 491 units recorded during the corresponding period in 2025.
The rapid shift towards electric mobility is reshaping the automotive landscape, and workshops dedicated to electric vehicles are at the forefront of this transformation.
