Smart mobility market in Spain

Spain is a leader in smart mobility in Europe. By combining a strong manufacturing base with advanced R&D capacity and robust public investment in electric, connected, and sustainable transportation. The sector includes:

  • autonomous vehicles
  • clean aviation
  • rail
  • electric mobility
  • vehicle-to-infrastructure systems. 

The country is driving toward climate neutrality by 2050. The initiative supports strategic European Union (EU) and national initiatives like the Sustainable Mobility Act and Spain’s Recovery Plan. Key hubs in Madrid, Barcelona, and the Basque region are innovation anchors for international partnerships.

Key opportunities for Canadian smart mobility companies in Spain

  • Supply chain partnerships in electric vehicles (EVs), batteries, and vehicle recycling under PERTE VEC and MOVES III
  • Innovation in autonomous driving, AI-powered transport solutions, and clean aviation technologies
  • Development and integration of intelligent transport systems, including predictive telematics, V2I, and cybersecurity

Notable challenges for Canadian smart mobility companies in Spain

  • Competition from established EU players and Tier-1 global OEMs
  • Strong emphasis on local content and in-market R&D for grant eligibility
  • Regulatory complexity across EU, national, and regional frameworks

Industry highlights

10% contribution from the automotive sector to Spain’s GDP

More than EU 24 billion total public-private investment planned under Spain’s PERTE for electric vehicles

Second largest automaker in Europe and eighth worldwide

More than 1,000 companies active across Spain’s smart mobility supply chain

700,000 electric vehicles Spain aims to manufacture to meet 2030 EU targets

CAD 1.1 billion of Canadian exports to Spain in automotive and vehicle equipment-related sectors in 2023

Spanish business landscape

Smart mobility in Spain is evolving rapidly under robust public-private strategies like the MOVES Plan, PERTE VEC III, and the Sustainable Mobility Act. Spain’s auto and rail sectors are globally competitive, and its cities are deploying:

  • electric fleets
  • hydrogen trains
  • ITS infrastructure 

Clean aviation is gaining traction through the EU’s Clean Aviation Joint Undertaking, and smart transport systems are being tested with EU support.

Spanish firms are driving innovation alongside multinationals. Multiple associations, incentive schemes, and digital platforms are in place. Foreign participation and joint development in high-impact projects are encouraged.

Summary

Spain is a leading destination for innovative mobility solutions in Europe. A highly connected automotive and transport sector is supported by strong public funding and progressive policies. By leveraging technology, R&D, and clean tech collaborations, Canadian companies can explore opportunities in EVs, AI-driven mobility, and sustainable aviation.

Contact us

For more information on smart mobility in Spain, contact espana@international.gc.ca.

Additional Information

Date published:

Hi! I'm Eva. Select the icon to start a chat with me.