Sustainable Mobility and Low Emission Zones: A Practical Look at Electric Cars in Cities

Transformation in Urban Mobility and Low Emission Initiatives

Across modern cities, a deep transformation is underway that reshapes how people move and how communities protect the environment. The push for sustainable mobility is now a central priority, balancing the need for current transportation with a clear eye on environmental impact. In Madrid, Spain, a monographic event centered on Sustainable Mobility, Low Emission Zones (ZBE), and Electric Cars was organized with the support of Prensa Ibérica groups including Spain Newspaper and Neomotor, backed by ABB, North Gate, Bertelsmann, and Pons Mobility. The gathering united leading experts to discuss how urban mobility is evolving in cities and the role technology plays in these changes.

Within the framework of Special Economic Recovery and Transformation Projects (PERTE) for electric and connected vehicles, industry leaders spoke about the practical realities of adopting electric cars. Alvaro Vazquez, country manager at ABB Mobility, described electric cars as an undeniable and factual solution, while also acknowledging the hurdles that slow progress, notably purchase price and the current shortage of charging points.

Teresa Romo, Development and Sustainability Director at North Gate Spain, called electric vehicles a key tool for Low Emission Zones. Northgate is actively laying foundations for progressive practices and aims to assist customers through the transformation. Romo noted that the company seeks to provide guidance and facilitate the transition. She also acknowledged that many citizens still view the purchase price as prohibitive, but suggested that when the total lifecycle costs are considered, the value becomes clearer.

Arancha Garcia, Industry and Environment Director for the Spanish Association of Automobile and Truck Manufacturers (ANFAC), emphasized that total cost of ownership matters as much as the upfront price. She highlighted that, under certain conditions and with continued incentives, electric vehicles can be financially advantageous relative to combustion options. She urged administrations and companies to communicate clearly that electric cars should be affordable, accessible, and adaptable to diverse mobility needs, leveraging the latest technologies for better connectivity.

Charging Infrastructure

The lack of charging points creates uncertainty and represents a major obstacle for many potential electric car buyers. Speakers agreed on the urgency of solutions. Vazquez of ABB Emobility suggested resolving issues by improving reliability at charging points and ensuring proper signage and adequate power. The involved actors must guarantee sufficient charging capacity to meet demand and make the process straightforward for users.

Rafael del Rio, Head Coach at the Collaboration for the Development and Promotion of Electric Transport (AEDIVE), reminded attendees that charging points are not always near gas stations and often go unseen. He acknowledged existing resistance but argued that some of the hesitation stems from misinformation about the technology and the costs involved. The group stressed the importance of transparency and education so that consumers understand how charging options fit into daily routines.

Arancha Garcia underscored the need for ongoing efforts to ensure the user can charge with reliable information and consistent power. She cited scenarios such as truck drivers who cannot stop at gas stations during regulated breaks and may face revenue loss if charging power is insufficient. Rafael del Rio reiterated the risk of inadequate charging facilities for distribution vehicles and described it as a major investment in the network.

Álvaro Vazquez reiterated that accessing electric mobility requires an ecosystem. Teresa Romo added that Spain is ready for the electric car revolution, stressing that sooner or later, consumers will adopt it and their choice will depend on timely options from providers. The market will reward those who position themselves ahead of competitors by supporting a smooth transition for customers.

Information and Public Understanding

Rafael del Rio of AEDIVE pointed out that better information is essential for both electric vehicles and charging infrastructure. A driver emerging from a diesel vehicle with a clear understanding of costs and charging locations is more likely to switch to an advanced electric model, even if the upfront price seems higher at first glance. Álvaro Vazquez warned that the industry bears responsibility to communicate in simple terms that fit real-world usage rather than idealized visions.

Electric cars were identified as a pivotal element in advancing Low Emission Zones (ZBE) in urban areas where access is restricted to curb emissions from certain vehicles. This shift reflects a broader move toward cleaner cities and healthier living environments, supported by ongoing dialogue among industry, government, and municipal authorities.

Low Emission Zones and Urban Planning

The discussion on LEZs highlighted the challenges Spanish cities face in implementing these zones. A report by the Spanish Confederation of Business Organizations (CEOE) was presented, with Alvaro Alba detailing the main findings. The study showed that only a fraction of large municipalities had implemented LEZs by 2023, and many faced delays due to project-definition hurdles, regulatory uncertainty, funding gaps, and political instability.

Maria Dolores Ortiz, General Manager of Planning and Mobility Infrastructures in Madrid, noted that the city has progressively integrated LEZs and that the approach has begun to yield positive results. She referenced Madrid 360 as part of an air quality strategy and suggested prioritizing active mobility and efficient space use within LEZs. Alfredo Sanchez Vicente, Technical Consultant for the Ministry of Transport, Mobility and Urban Agenda, emphasized ensuring LEZs support active mobility and other uses while maintaining clear priorities for safety and quality of life.

Ramon Ledesma of Pons Mobility commented that people still lack a basic understanding of signage and policies at city entrances, emphasizing the need for public education and a centralized information platform to reduce confusion. Maria Dolores Ortiz added that many cities struggle with meeting LEZ thresholds defined by population thresholds rather than air quality outcomes, noting that some smaller cities still enjoy better air quality while others face stricter enforcement. She highlighted the potential for car sharing and new mobility models to complement LEZs and improve overall urban efficiency.

Alfredo Sanchez highlighted that the future of urban mobility depends on reorganizing urban space to promote pedestrian priority, active mobility, and robust public transport. He underscored the importance of consistent safety and accessibility measures that will guide the city through the next decade. Ramon Ledesma called for a broader adoption of a public information framework that informs users while supporting the necessary digitization to prevent confusion and miscommunication. The consensus: LEZs are a powerful tool when combined with intelligent planning, transparent information, and a shared commitment to cleaner, safer cities.

In summary, the event underscored that low emission mobility is not just about replacing engines; it is about rethinking urban ecosystems, from charging infrastructure to public awareness and policy design. The ultimate goal remains clear: cleaner air, improved traffic flow, and a more livable city environment for residents and visitors alike, now and in the future.