Spain's Auto 2030 Plan revamps EV incentives with €400M subsidies

Spain has launched a new electric vehicle (EV) incentive scheme called the Auto 2030 Plan, replacing the older MOVES programme. The initiative aims to boost EV adoption with €400 million in direct purchase subsidies starting in 2026. Meanwhile, the European Commission is reviewing tariffs on Volkswagen Group's Chinese-made electric cars after a price proposal from VW Anhui and SEAT.

In separate news, car-sharing service Zipcar has announced plans to exit the UK market by the end of 2025 after consulting employees.

The Auto 2030 Plan marks a shift in Spain's EV strategy. Instead of regional control, the central government will manage incentives directly at the point of sale. The scheme allocates €400 million for car purchases, with an additional €580 million from EU funds supporting industrial projects and €300 million expanding charging infrastructure.

The charging network expansion, part of the Moves Corredores programme, will focus on high-demand areas. Regions like Catalonia, where new battery plants are opening, and zones with private investment from companies such as Iberdrola and bp pulse are likely to see the most growth. However, the exact number of new stations by 2026 has not yet been confirmed.

Elsewhere, the European Commission is assessing a price undertaking proposal from Volkswagen Group. If approved, the Cupra Tavascan—produced in China—could avoid countervailing duties. The review process is expected to take a few months. The Commission has also indicated openness to similar offers from other manufacturers concerned about Chinese subsidies.

Zipcar's UK operations, however, are winding down. The company has stopped accepting new members during its employee consultation. While UK services will close by late 2025, its US operations remain unaffected by the decision.

The Auto 2030 Plan will introduce centralised EV incentives in Spain from 2026, alongside expanded charging infrastructure. The European Commission's review of VW's proposal could lead to duty exemptions for the Cupra Tavascan within months. Zipcar's UK exit, meanwhile, will conclude by the end of next year, leaving its US services unchanged.