EU crackdown on cars sparks backlash in Spain

Spanish drivers are fuming as new EU proposals threaten to scrap thousands of perfectly roadworthy cars – just because they’re old. Brussels says it’s all about being environmentally friendly, but critics claim it’s really a tax on the working class. Already, you can get in touch with us. Hits Costs are rising.

What could the new rules mean to you?

More and more people in Spain, and throughout Europe as a result, are opting for second-hand vehicles. Drivers are trying to save money on new cars because they’re so expensive. The following are some of the ways to get in touch with us: stay mobile – from keeping their old car running to buying a used one. For every new vehicle sold, there are two used vehicles. Buy.

China is also increasing its competition with the EU. Once-loyal European buyers of brand names are no longer switching to Chinese models because they offer lower prices and high tech packages. Many European brands struggle to keep up.

You can also read about it hereIn a sudden and unexpected turn of events, the EU decided the environment couldn’t coexist. Old and ugly cars. European consumers should not be able buy a used banger to travel from A to B B, Of course, they should purchase newer vehicles. They’re calling it the ‘end-of-life vehicle’ plan.

Spanish drivers angry at EU scrappage: public outcry growsThe following are some of the ways to get in touch with each other:

The following are some of the most effective ways to reduce your risk.Any drivers claim that the rules are excessive. ‘Just because my car’s a few years old doesn’t mean it’s Waste“, says an angry motorist, Jorge Montoro The following are some examples of how to use Madrid. ‘I’ve passed every test – how can it suddenly be banned? I don’t want to invest 20-50K in a car because I am not into cars. I’d rather spend my money on my home and enjoying my life. It’s my decision, whether I can afford to do it or not. The Spanish government and the EU are not welcome for forcing me to give my money up. Now that we’ve paid enough taxes, they are forcing us to pay for other things. It’s a tax disguised as another. Thank you, I’ll keep the 15-year-old car.

The fear is that. A working, road-safe car could be branded ‘scrap’ just because of its age or emissions level – even if it’s still reliable and safe.

Winners and Losers – Who is most affected?

Now is the time to actA car is considered a total loss if it has been written off. The whole thing is broken Or too expensive? Fix. But under the new rules, even a working car could be labelled unfit to drive – just because it’s old. Second-hand cars may be sent straight to the junkyard if they are deemed unfit for driving.

The EU says it’s part of the push for a ‘circular economy’ – a term that ironically involves wasting less. The idea behind recycling is to reduce pollution. But what about everyday drivers? It could prove to be an expensive nightmare.

Andalusia, Rural Spain and their Regional Impact

In Andalusia, the average car is now 15 years old – half a year older than the national average – while neighbouring regions like Extremadura (16.3 years) and Castilla-La Mancha (15.8 years) have the oldest fleets in Spain.

These statistics highlight the heavy dependence on old vehicles in Spain’s less-wealthy regions where public transport and incomes are low. Andalusia is home to 14% (of Spain’s public electric vehicle chargers), but the majority are in cities. Rural residents must travel over 30 minutes to reach the nearest charger. Local policies have also been tightened. From April 2025 Granada’s Low-Emission Zone will ban petrol cars that were registered before 2001. diesels Before 2006, unless you belong to Local residents. Residents.

Socioeconomic divide

The EU’s proposed ‘end-of-life vehicle’ regulation threatens to disproportionately affect lower-income households, particularly in rural areas. In 2025, the average price of a used diesel vehicle is €14,161 – less than half the €31,515 average for a used electric car. Even after applying the full €7,000 subsidy from Spain’s MOVES III scheme, the price gap remains significant. Meanwhile, Andalusia’s median disposable income is just €11,719 per year, meaning many residents are priced out of the electric transition entirely. With new car costs risen nearly 40% since 2019 to over €40,000, private car ownership is becoming increasingly unaffordable for the working class. In areas with poor public transportation, those forced to scrap their vehicle may lose access to jobs, healthcare and education.

Manufacturer influence and EU–China tensions

While the EU is tightening its green transportation rules, it also has to contend with a surge of Chinese electric vehicles that are undercutting European producers on price. Chinese brands held 5.9% in the EU market by May 2025. According to forecasts, they could reach 25 % by year’s end. Brussels has imposed tariffs up to 45.3% for EVs made in China. Industry leaders, however, warn that the move may be insufficient. Stellantis CEO Carlos Tavares said that tariffs are “a trap”, and will not protect European job unless manufacturers reduce production costs. Meanwhile, Chinese giant BYD has delayed operations at its €4 billion Hungarian plant, shifting attention to Turkey in response to tariff uncertainty. The EU’s regulations are designed to promote local industry. Cut They could push drivers to more expensive European cars – If they can even afford them.

Green Goals to Costly chaos?

Many families and young professionals cannot afford new cars. People can be a part of the process by contacting us. You can also find out more about the people behind this website. You don’t want it Spending money on a They choose not to buy a car. Now, what?These cars can be a risky investment. If the rule passes, cars that pass today’s ITV (Spain MOT) may be scrapped in the future.

It’s not Brussels that would make the decision You can also contact us directly. ITV centres and authorised garages would have the power to label your car as ‘end-of-life’ on the spot. Once that happens, forget about selling it – it’s off to the scrapyard.

What’s next?

Nothing’s final – yet. This is a big deal for the EU, and they are moving fast. Perhaps because they fear people might voice their opinions if this takes too much time. The new rules are expected to be in place as early as next summer, which will change how used cars are bought, sold, and driven throughout Spain.

Brussels is a great place to look for a second hand vehicle. You could have your next vehicle ruled out of the road even before you start it.

We cut through the jargon, so that you are not caught by surprise. If you Live in Spain The following are some examples of how to use You can also read more about the benefits of using Drive here and stay in control. Visit us Driving section now – before Brussels makes your car history.