Electric Vehicle Fires Spark Safety Concerns in Spain
Electric cars have been hailed as the future of transportation for years, promising a quiet, efficient, and emission-free ride. However, in 2025, EVs are sparking more than just excitement – they’re catching fire, raising concerns about safety and public trust.
In the coastal town of Calpe, officials have made headlines by cancelling their electric vehicle lease due to a municipal EV that caught fire while charging in public. This incident wasn’t isolated; firefighters in Madrid have responded to several EV-related fires in recent months. The push for cleaner mobility remains strong, backed by the EU, but is Calpe setting a precedent for a potential roadblock to Spain’s green transition?
Calpe’s Decision to Abandon EVs
In April 2025, Calpe made a bold decision to end its electric vehicle leases with a major manufacturer and return to petrol or diesel-powered vehicles. The trigger was a municipal EV that caught fire while charging on a public street, alarming local officials. Calpe’s mayor stated on Cadena SER that the risk, whether mechanical or perceived, was not worth the hassle. The town is now considering alternative green options like hydrogen.
A Growing Trend of EV Fires
The Calpe fire was not an isolated incident. Firefighters have responded to four electric car fires in the previous few months. A tragic event in an underground garage in Alcorcón, Madrid, resulted in two firefighters losing their lives and fifteen people being injured. The investigation revealed that the fire originated from an electric Porsche Taycan that caught fire after colliding with a parked vehicle.
EV fires pose unique challenges as they can burn hotter, longer, and often reignite, requiring specialized equipment that many towns lack. The issue is compounded by limited charging points, especially outside major cities, stalling confidence among consumers and professionals adopting EVs.
Local Fears vs. EU Green Goals
Calpe’s decision to return to conventional vehicles may be practical for local officials but comes at a cost. The town risks falling out of compliance with EU funding requirements, particularly NexGenerationEU. However, from a local perspective, public safety, limited resources, and a lack of confidence in EV reliability make fossil fuels a safer bet.
While Spain remains committed to its 2030 emission targets, cases like Calpe raise a crucial question: can the green transition succeed if it doesn’t feel safe or feasible at the local level? For many Spanish households, switching to an electric car is theoretically appealing but practically out of reach due to higher costs, a fragmented second-hand EV market, and complex repair requirements.
The Path Forward for Spain
Spain has made firm commitments to decarbonization, backed by EU climate targets and incentives. However, the targets on paper don’t always align with safety concerns, infrastructure gaps, and economic pressures on the ground. The transition to clean mobility needs to be practically achievable for everyday drivers, mechanics, firefighters, and municipalities. Will more towns follow Calpe’s lead, or will there be changes to improve fire protocols, servicing options, and rural charging access?
