No menu items!

COSTA RICA'S LEADING ENGLISH LANGUAGE NEWSPAPER

HomeCosta RicaCosta Rica Sees Sharp Rise In Electric Vehicle Adoption

Costa Rica Sees Sharp Rise In Electric Vehicle Adoption

Authorities confirm electric vehicle sales are rising sharply in Costa Rica, driven by greater consumer acceptance and an expanding model lineup.

Specialists say buyers have overcome initial hesitancy about electric cars, now seeing them as safe options with improving infrastructure like charging stations. Costa Ricans also have more choices to select from as automakers ramp up EV offerings.

Data from the Ministry of Environment and Energy shows over 1,800 electric vehicles were registered with the Property Registry in 2022. This represents an increase of more than 40% compared to 2021.

“The commitment felt by consumers and the increased supply of electric vehicles are crucial to achieving Costa Rica’s decarbonization goals,” said Alberto Antillón, the ministry’s energy director. “Consumers now see electric vehicles as a regular option, have lost their fear towards them, and recognize their benefits.”

The selection continues to grow as interest builds. “We will close the year with more than 55,000 units, which evidences a great opportunity for the electric mobility sector,” noted Carlos Aguilar of the Association of Importers of Vehicles and Machinery.

Costa Rica’s Push for Decarbonization

This EV boom supports Costa Rica’s commitment to a decarbonized economy. The country reached 99% clean energy production in 2022, per the National Energy Control Center.

As part of the National Decarbonization Plan, Costa Rica aims to achieve net zero emissions by 2050. The transportation sector accounts for almost half of greenhouse gas output, making it a priority.

“The plan’s first three axes focus on transforming our vehicle fleet from polluting to clean,” explained Jairo Quirós Tortós, an electromobility expert at the University of Costa Rica.

This involves promoting sustainable mobility in public and private transport. Quirós said achieving the goals requires coordinated action from government and active participation by businesses and the general public who own most vehicles.

Costa Rica is aggressively building up EV charging stations to reduce range anxiety. New regulations also incentivize electric car adoption. For example, EVs are exempt from import taxes and restrictions on driving in San José.

As the nation modernizes its vehicle fleet, officials advise the public to consider electric for their next purchase. Falling battery prices have made EVs cost competitive with gas models. Maintenance is simpler too, given the reduced mechanical complexity.

While the decarbonization journey remains ongoing, progress is clearly being made. Costa Rica’s strong electric vehicle uptake keeps it on track to hit ambitious emissions reduction targets.

Trending Now

Riu Guanacaste Hotel Reopens in Costa Rica After Renovation

The Riu Guanacaste hotel in Costa Rica has reopened after a complete renovation, welcoming guests back to its beachfront spot on Matapalo Beach. The...

Guatemala Joins Costa Rica and Ecuador in Building Anti-Gang Prisons

The Guatemalan government has put forward a new bill aimed at hitting gangs harder, with steeper sentences and a dedicated high-security prison, as the...

Costa Rica Weather Alert: Heavy Rain, Flooding, and Landslides

The National Meteorological Institute (IMN) issued a warning on Thursday about persistent heavy rains and thunderstorms affecting much of Costa Rica.These conditions are the...

Costa Rica Approves Extradition of Ex-Minister Gamboa and Associates

A Costa Rican court has approved the extradition of former Security Minister Celso Gamboa Sánchez to the United States on charges of international cocaine...

Costa Rica’s Nayara Springs Named Among World’s Best Hotels by MICHELIN

Nayara Springs, a secluded adults-only resort near Arenal Volcano National Park, has claimed the highest spot in the MICHELIN Guide's new hotel rankings. The...

Costa Rica Pesticide Use Harms Soil Life, UNA Study Finds

Costa Rica is one of the countries that uses the most agrochemicals, which has a series of negative repercussions in various areas. A recent...
spot_img
Costa Rica Coffee Maker Chorreador
Costa Rica Coffee Maker Chorreador
Costa Rica Travel Insurance
Costa Rica Rocking Chait
Costa Rica Travel

Latest News from Costa Rica