Motoring – Euro Weekly News https://euroweeklynews.com News and views in English since 1998 Fri, 19 Jun 2026 21:56:44 +0000 en-GB hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=7.0 https://euroweeklynews.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/cropped-EuroWeeklyNews-Favicon-2-60x60.png Motoring – Euro Weekly News https://euroweeklynews.com 32 32 Driving in Spain this weekend? The DGT has issued a heatwave warning https://euroweeklynews.com/2026/06/19/driving-in-spain-this-weekend-the-dgt-has-issued-a-heatwave-warning/ https://euroweeklynews.com/2026/06/19/driving-in-spain-this-weekend-the-dgt-has-issued-a-heatwave-warning/#respond Fri, 19 Jun 2026 21:56:44 +0000 https://euroweeklynews.com/?p=572010 Spain’s first major heatwave of the summer is arriving just as roads begin filling up with weekend travellers and early holidaymakers. With temperatures forecast to approach 40C in parts of the country, the DGT is warning motorists to take extra care. The concern is not only what the heat can do to a vehicle, but what it can do to the person sitting behind the wheel. For many people…

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]]> https://euroweeklynews.com/2026/06/19/driving-in-spain-this-weekend-the-dgt-has-issued-a-heatwave-warning/feed/ 0 A major change on July 7 could make new cars even more expensive https://euroweeklynews.com/2026/06/19/a-major-change-on-july-7-could-make-new-cars-even-more-expensive/ https://euroweeklynews.com/2026/06/19/a-major-change-on-july-7-could-make-new-cars-even-more-expensive/#comments Fri, 19 Jun 2026 11:31:25 +0000 https://euroweeklynews.com/?p=571951 Buying a new car in Europe could become even more expensive from July 7. New EU safety rules coming into force next month will require additional technology in newly sold vehicles, adding to a trend that has already seen the price of many entry level cars climb sharply in recent years. Industry figures have repeatedly warned that smaller and more affordable models are feeling the pressure most.

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]]> https://euroweeklynews.com/2026/06/19/a-major-change-on-july-7-could-make-new-cars-even-more-expensive/feed/ 1 Drivers are spotting speed cameras in the strangest places across Spain and many are not happy https://euroweeklynews.com/2026/06/17/drivers-are-spotting-speed-cameras-in-the-strangest-places-across-spain-and-many-are-not-happy/ https://euroweeklynews.com/2026/06/17/drivers-are-spotting-speed-cameras-in-the-strangest-places-across-spain-and-many-are-not-happy/#respond Wed, 17 Jun 2026 21:34:15 +0000 https://euroweeklynews.com/?p=571857 A small black box hidden behind a kilometre marker in León has reignited a debate that never really goes away in Spain. The Guardia Civil is using a new generation of compact speed cameras that can be tucked behind road signs and roadside furniture, making them far harder for drivers to spot before it’s too late. A driver passing through Hospital de Órbigo, a town in León province…

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]]> https://euroweeklynews.com/2026/06/17/drivers-are-spotting-speed-cameras-in-the-strangest-places-across-spain-and-many-are-not-happy/feed/ 0 The Jaguar behind Princess Diana’s most famous fashion moment has sold https://euroweeklynews.com/2026/06/17/the-jaguar-behind-princess-dianas-most-famous-fashion-moment-has-sold/ https://euroweeklynews.com/2026/06/17/the-jaguar-behind-princess-dianas-most-famous-fashion-moment-has-sold/#respond Wed, 17 Jun 2026 13:48:30 +0000 https://euroweeklynews.com/?p=571826 Everybody, even those not alive at the time, can picture the moment Princess Diana stepped out in her black, off the shoulder “revenge dress”. It was a jaw-dropping moment that has since been immortalised in public memory. And now, a key object of that iconic day has found a new owner after collectors and car enthusiasts battled it out at auction for the prized Jaguar that Princess Diana emerged…

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]]> https://euroweeklynews.com/2026/06/17/the-jaguar-behind-princess-dianas-most-famous-fashion-moment-has-sold/feed/ 0 MG HS Hybrid+ – an irresistible choice? https://euroweeklynews.com/2026/06/17/mg-hs-hybrid-an-irresistible-choice/ https://euroweeklynews.com/2026/06/17/mg-hs-hybrid-an-irresistible-choice/#respond Wed, 17 Jun 2026 07:00:41 +0000 https://euroweeklynews.com/?p=571308 With the news that Spain has benefitted over the original home of MG for the company’s first return to Europe it seems a good point to have a look at one of MGs best selling models. With few exceptions the MG HS Hybrid+ ticks every box you could want for a spacious, comfortable, well equipped and value for money SUV. The HS range offers petrol, Hybrid and Plug-in Hybrid power options with the…

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]]> https://euroweeklynews.com/2026/06/17/mg-hs-hybrid-an-irresistible-choice/feed/ 0 Drivers in Spain could face a €200 fine over a sticker many think is optional https://euroweeklynews.com/2026/06/16/drivers-in-spain-could-face-a-e200-fine-over-a-sticker-many-think-is-optional/ https://euroweeklynews.com/2026/06/16/drivers-in-spain-could-face-a-e200-fine-over-a-sticker-many-think-is-optional/#respond Tue, 16 Jun 2026 18:46:33 +0000 https://euroweeklynews.com/?p=571742 Thousands of motorists driving through Spain’s Low Emission Zones are displaying the DGT environmental sticker because they believe the law requires it everywhere. In reality, there is no nationwide obligation to have the label on your windscreen, although failing to display it in certain cities could still land you with a fine. If you drive in Spain regularly, you’ve probably seen them…

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]]> https://euroweeklynews.com/2026/06/16/drivers-in-spain-could-face-a-e200-fine-over-a-sticker-many-think-is-optional/feed/ 0 Drivers in Spain warned: This mistake could cost you €1,000 and six licence points this summer https://euroweeklynews.com/2026/06/14/drivers-in-spain-warned-this-mistake-could-cost-you-e1000-and-six-licence-points-this-summer/ https://euroweeklynews.com/2026/06/14/drivers-in-spain-warned-this-mistake-could-cost-you-e1000-and-six-licence-points-this-summer/#respond Sun, 14 Jun 2026 12:29:55 +0000 https://euroweeklynews.com/?p=571490 More than 3,800 drivers tested positive for alcohol or drugs during a nationwide DGT enforcement campaign, with traffic authorities detecting an average of more than 500 offenders every day, and with San Juan celebrations and summer getaways bringing millions of extra journeys onto Spain’s roads, traffic authorities are reminding motorists that getting behind the wheel after drinking could cost…

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]]> https://euroweeklynews.com/2026/06/14/drivers-in-spain-warned-this-mistake-could-cost-you-e1000-and-six-licence-points-this-summer/feed/ 0 Driving in Europe this summer? These are the countries motorists find most stressful https://euroweeklynews.com/2026/06/14/driving-in-europe-this-summer-these-are-the-countries-motorists-find-most-stressful/ https://euroweeklynews.com/2026/06/14/driving-in-europe-this-summer-these-are-the-countries-motorists-find-most-stressful/#comments Sun, 14 Jun 2026 11:22:13 +0000 https://euroweeklynews.com/?p=571451 A new study has ranked the most stressful countries to drive in across Europe, and the results may come as bad news for anyone planning a summer road trip. Poland, the Czech Republic and Romania all feature near the top, while Spain is among the easiest places to get behind the wheel. For many holidaymakers, hiring a car is one of the best ways to explore Europe. It offers freedom…

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]]> https://euroweeklynews.com/2026/06/14/driving-in-europe-this-summer-these-are-the-countries-motorists-find-most-stressful/feed/ 2 Spain drivers over 65 face new licence rules – Here’s what changes https://euroweeklynews.com/2026/06/11/spain-drivers-over-65-face-new-licence-rules-heres-what-changes/ https://euroweeklynews.com/2026/06/11/spain-drivers-over-65-face-new-licence-rules-heres-what-changes/#respond Thu, 11 Jun 2026 11:47:50 +0000 https://euroweeklynews.com/?p=571285 Many drivers in Spain have heard the same rumour. Turn 65 and the authorities start making it harder to stay behind the wheel. The reality is a little different. While Spain has introduced stricter renewal rules for older motorists, there is still no age limit for driving, meaning people can continue using their licence well into their seventies, eighties and beyond if they meet the required…

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]]> https://euroweeklynews.com/2026/06/11/spain-drivers-over-65-face-new-licence-rules-heres-what-changes/feed/ 0 Worried your V16 beacon could track you? Spain has just clarified the rules https://euroweeklynews.com/2026/06/09/worried-your-v16-beacon-could-track-you-spain-has-just-clarified-the-rules/ https://euroweeklynews.com/2026/06/09/worried-your-v16-beacon-could-track-you-spain-has-just-clarified-the-rules/#respond Tue, 09 Jun 2026 17:31:09 +0000 https://euroweeklynews.com/?p=571148 When Spain replaced warning triangles with connected V16 beacons earlier this year, the conversation quickly moved beyond road safety. For many drivers, the biggest question wasn’t how the device worked. It was what happened to the information it sent. Could the DGT see where drivers were? Could connected beacons be used to collect personal information? And would motorists end up being…

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]]> https://euroweeklynews.com/2026/06/09/worried-your-v16-beacon-could-track-you-spain-has-just-clarified-the-rules/feed/ 0 From car rallies to car tours! https://euroweeklynews.com/2026/06/03/from-car-rallies-to-car-tours/ Wed, 03 Jun 2026 07:00:33 +0000 https://euroweeklynews.com/?p=570626 Until a few years ago, if you wanted to go on an organised car tour abroad it meant competing in a rally. Whether a navigational or a timed speed event, it was expensive, difficult to get into and your car would need specialist preparation, and safety equipment. Oh, and, most important, you would need a trained co-pilot cum navigator who would also function as an office manager, tour operator…

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]]> Volvo XC40 – classy step into electric driving, with the comfort of a petrol tank https://euroweeklynews.com/2026/06/03/volvo-xc40-classy-step-into-electric-driving-with-the-comfort-of-a-petrol-tank/ Wed, 03 Jun 2026 07:00:08 +0000 https://euroweeklynews.com/?p=570290 It’s a sign of SUV dominance, not mention the volatility, of the car market that a couple of years ago Volvo announced they were ending the sale of estate cars in the UK. Volvo not selling estate cars! Less than a year later they relented and you can still buy a new V60 estate. The fact remains though that the SUV isn’t losing its appeal anytime soon, and Volvo’s array of SUV models is…

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]]> Some vehicles in Spain will need ITV inspections every six months after turning 10 https://euroweeklynews.com/2026/06/03/some-vehicles-in-spain-will-need-itv-inspections-every-six-months-after-turning-10/ https://euroweeklynews.com/2026/06/03/some-vehicles-in-spain-will-need-itv-inspections-every-six-months-after-turning-10/#comments Tue, 02 Jun 2026 22:18:03 +0000 https://euroweeklynews.com/?p=570728 For many camper van owners, reaching the ten year mark is hardly a reason to worry. If the vehicle is running well and passes its annual inspection, most assume nothing much changes. But for thousands of drivers across Spain, that assumption could prove expensive. A clarification published by Spain’s Directorate General of Traffic (DGT) confirms that some camper vans over ten years old will…

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]]> https://euroweeklynews.com/2026/06/03/some-vehicles-in-spain-will-need-itv-inspections-every-six-months-after-turning-10/feed/ 1 Drivers are being warned about a simple car park trick that starts with a piece of paper https://euroweeklynews.com/2026/05/31/drivers-are-being-warned-about-a-simple-car-park-trick-that-starts-with-a-piece-of-paper/ Sun, 31 May 2026 11:58:45 +0000 https://euroweeklynews.com/?p=570478 You finish your shopping, load the bags into the car and head off and a few seconds later, you notice something tucked under the windscreen wiper. Maybe it is a leaflet, maybe it is a flyer or it is just a random piece of paper. Most people would probably do exactly the same thing. Pull over and remove it. According to security warnings that continue to circulate across Europe…

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]]> Europe is about to make electric car batteries far less mysterious under new EU rules https://euroweeklynews.com/2026/05/30/europe-is-about-to-make-electric-car-batteries-far-less-mysterious-under-new-eu-rules/ https://euroweeklynews.com/2026/05/30/europe-is-about-to-make-electric-car-batteries-far-less-mysterious-under-new-eu-rules/#comments Sat, 30 May 2026 18:45:18 +0000 https://euroweeklynews.com/?p=570442 Anyone who has ever looked at a used electric car has probably wondered the same thing : What condition is the battery really in? Mileage is easy to check and service history can usually be verified. The battery, however, is a different story. It is often the most expensive part of the vehicle, yet for many buyers it remains something of a mystery. Sellers can provide information.

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]]> https://euroweeklynews.com/2026/05/30/europe-is-about-to-make-electric-car-batteries-far-less-mysterious-under-new-eu-rules/feed/ 2 Spanish drivers face new roadside fuel checks that could lead to €6,000 fines https://euroweeklynews.com/2026/05/30/spanish-drivers-face-new-roadside-fuel-checks-that-could-lead-to-e6000-fines/ Sat, 30 May 2026 10:54:07 +0000 https://euroweeklynews.com/?p=570436 Most drivers expect a roadside stop to be about speeding, paperwork or perhaps a breathalyser test. Very few expect an officer to take an interest in what is sitting inside their fuel tank. Yet that is exactly what some motorists are now encountering in Spain. The Guardia Civil has begun carrying out roadside fuel inspections aimed at identifying vehicles using subsidised diesel without…

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]]> Drivers in Spain can be fined €200 for checking WhatsApp at a red light https://euroweeklynews.com/2026/05/28/drivers-in-spain-can-be-fined-e200-for-checking-whatsapp-at-a-red-light/ Thu, 28 May 2026 21:23:55 +0000 https://euroweeklynews.com/?p=570350 A lot of drivers in Spain still think the same thing when traffic stops at a red light : ‘If the car isn’t moving for a few seconds, checking my phone quickly can’t really matter.’ But according to Spain’s traffic laws, that assumption can become expensive very fast. The DGT can fine drivers €200 and remove up to six points from their licence for using a mobile phone while behind the wheel…

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]]> Genesis GV60 – quiet refinement that would put a library to shame https://euroweeklynews.com/2026/05/27/genesis-gv60-quiet-refinement-that-would-put-a-library-to-shame/ Wed, 27 May 2026 07:00:42 +0000 https://euroweeklynews.com/?p=569736 Genesis is the first book of the bible – it was also a rock band to those of a certain age – and means the origin, creation, or beginning of something. I’m pretty sure the bible played no part in Hyundai’s decision to create a luxury arm for their cars. Genesis is though, a pretty good name for a new marque. Launched in Europe back in 2021 the company still has a long road ahead…

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]]> Thousands of drivers in Spain are now receiving unexpected €1,000 fines https://euroweeklynews.com/2026/05/26/thousands-of-drivers-in-spain-are-now-receiving-unexpected-e1000-fines/ Tue, 26 May 2026 09:16:45 +0000 https://euroweeklynews.com/?p=570056 A lot of drivers in Spain are discovering the same thing lately. That moment when you open the letterbox, glance at an official envelope and immediately think: ‘What now?’ For thousands of motorists, the answer has turned out to be an old traffic offence they assumed was forgotten or never even noticed in the first place. Some are linked to speeding. Others involve mobile phone use behind the…

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]]> Retired speed demons: Senior citizens in 70s hit 141km/h in old classic Citroën 2CV on 80 km/h road https://euroweeklynews.com/2026/05/26/retired-speed-demons-senior-citizens-in-70s-hit-141km-h-in-old-classic-citroen-2cv-on-80-km-h-road/ https://euroweeklynews.com/2026/05/26/retired-speed-demons-senior-citizens-in-70s-hit-141km-h-in-old-classic-citroen-2cv-on-80-km-h-road/#comments Tue, 26 May 2026 07:36:31 +0000 https://euroweeklynews.com/?p=570036 French police officers pulled over an unexpected car after radar detection showed extreme speed on a routine country route. Police officers were conducting checks on a country road restricted to 80 km/h when radar equipment suddenly registered 141 km/h from an approaching Citroen 2CV. Many would have expected a modern performance model, yet this iconic French car from decades past appeared…

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]]> https://euroweeklynews.com/2026/05/26/retired-speed-demons-senior-citizens-in-70s-hit-141km-h-in-old-classic-citroen-2cv-on-80-km-h-road/feed/ 2 New EU driving rule means future cars may refuse to start https://euroweeklynews.com/2026/05/25/new-eu-driving-rule-means-future-cars-may-refuse-to-start/ Mon, 25 May 2026 20:40:49 +0000 https://euroweeklynews.com/?p=570022 Drivers buying a new car in Europe from July 2026 may notice something changing behind the scenes. Every newly registered vehicle sold across the European Union will have to come ready for an alcohol interlock device to be installed. The rule is already creating confusion online because many people believe it means all drivers will need to blow into a breathalyser before starting their car.

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]]> Millions of drivers in Spain could eventually need to replace their V16 lights https://euroweeklynews.com/2026/05/21/millions-of-drivers-in-spain-could-eventually-need-to-replace-their-v16-lights/ https://euroweeklynews.com/2026/05/21/millions-of-drivers-in-spain-could-eventually-need-to-replace-their-v16-lights/#comments Thu, 21 May 2026 21:58:07 +0000 https://euroweeklynews.com/?p=569717 A lot of drivers in Spain bought the new V16 emergency warning lights thinking they were basically a modern replacement for the old warning triangles. Buy it once, leave it in the car and forget about it. Turns out it is not that simple. Spain’s traffic authority, the DGT, has now confirmed that the connected V16 devices eventually expire because of the SIM card installed inside them.

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]]> https://euroweeklynews.com/2026/05/21/millions-of-drivers-in-spain-could-eventually-need-to-replace-their-v16-lights/feed/ 2 Pink number plates on Spanish roads: What they actually mean for drivers https://euroweeklynews.com/2026/05/20/pink-number-plates-on-spanish-roads-what-they-actually-mean-for-drivers/ Wed, 20 May 2026 18:17:22 +0000 https://euroweeklynews.com/?p=569646 Drivers on Spanish roads may begin to see a vibrant new change from 2026: bright pink number plates. The recognition of these plates in traffic monitoring frameworks has been announced by Spain’s traffic authority, the General Directorate of Traffic, or DGT, with the purpose of identifying so-called “temporary” vehicles. These curious new number plates appearing on Spanish roads have a high…

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]]> Ford Capri Premium – is Ford back? https://euroweeklynews.com/2026/05/20/ford-capri-premium-is-ford-back/ Wed, 20 May 2026 07:00:13 +0000 https://euroweeklynews.com/?p=569068 If you’re of a certain age then you’ll probably remember the 1970/80S Ford Capri and the advertising strapline ‘The car you always promised yourself’. Re-launching a former model name can be tricky for car makers given certain buyers will always view the original car through rose-tinted glasses. In Ford’s case the latest Capri bears no resemblance to the original, it’s an all-electric Coupe SUV…

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]]> Spain’s new scooter sign is catching riders out with instant €200 fines https://euroweeklynews.com/2026/05/20/spains-new-scooter-sign-is-catching-riders-out-with-instant-e200-fines/ https://euroweeklynews.com/2026/05/20/spains-new-scooter-sign-is-catching-riders-out-with-instant-e200-fines/#comments Wed, 20 May 2026 03:49:32 +0000 https://euroweeklynews.com/?p=569522 A lot of electric scooter users in Spain are suddenly realising they can no longer ride through some streets they used almost every day before. A new traffic sign that started appearing across Spanish cities is now allowing councils to ban scooters and other personal mobility devices from certain areas, including pedestrian streets and historic centres. And if riders ignore it, they can be fined…

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]]> https://euroweeklynews.com/2026/05/20/spains-new-scooter-sign-is-catching-riders-out-with-instant-e200-fines/feed/ 4 V16 beacon mandate begins to fall apart as DGT chief blames everyone else for sales crash https://euroweeklynews.com/2026/05/19/v16-beacon-mandate-begins-to-fall-apart-as-dgt-chief-blames-everyone-else-for-sales-crash/ https://euroweeklynews.com/2026/05/19/v16-beacon-mandate-begins-to-fall-apart-as-dgt-chief-blames-everyone-else-for-sales-crash/#comments Tue, 19 May 2026 11:47:54 +0000 https://euroweeklynews.com/?p=569473 Spanish V16 beacon manufacturers are sounding the alarm over widespread uncertainty and lack of clarity surrounding the compulsory use of the connected emergency beacons. The carrying of the beacons in vehicles became law in Spain on January 1, and until now, the traffic authority, the DGT, is still releasing information about new rules in May. In a joint manifesto issued in mid-April 2026…

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]]> https://euroweeklynews.com/2026/05/19/v16-beacon-mandate-begins-to-fall-apart-as-dgt-chief-blames-everyone-else-for-sales-crash/feed/ 7 War and peace with motorhomes in Spain – Choose wisely where to park up in 2026 https://euroweeklynews.com/2026/05/16/war-and-peace-with-motorhomes-in-spain-choose-wisely-where-to-park-up-in-2026/ https://euroweeklynews.com/2026/05/16/war-and-peace-with-motorhomes-in-spain-choose-wisely-where-to-park-up-in-2026/#comments Sat, 16 May 2026 12:42:23 +0000 https://euroweeklynews.com/?p=569218 Those who love to holiday in tourism’s latest popular fashion, motorhoming, will need to plan carefully their holidays in Spain in 2026, as regional policies have created vastly contrasting environments for their journeys. Ibiza in the Ballearics has adopted probably the most aggressive tactics to restrict overnight stays, while Cantabria in the north of Spain is welcoming the travelling homes…

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]]> https://euroweeklynews.com/2026/05/16/war-and-peace-with-motorhomes-in-spain-choose-wisely-where-to-park-up-in-2026/feed/ 1 Spain’s new radars could fine drivers before they even spot the camera https://euroweeklynews.com/2026/05/15/spains-new-radars-could-fine-drivers-before-they-even-spot-the-camera/ Fri, 15 May 2026 21:36:19 +0000 https://euroweeklynews.com/?p=569207 A lot of drivers in Spain still react to speed cameras the same way. Spot the radar at the last second, hit the brakes quickly, slow down for a few seconds and then carry on. The DGT’s newer radar systems may put an end to that habit. According to reports, Spain’s traffic authority is introducing a new generation of 3D LIDAR speed cameras capable of detecting vehicles from around 200 metres…

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]]> Drivers and households in Spain could soon pay more for fuel and electricity https://euroweeklynews.com/2026/05/14/drivers-and-households-in-spain-could-soon-pay-more-for-fuel-and-electricity/ Thu, 14 May 2026 09:27:15 +0000 https://euroweeklynews.com/?p=569045 Drivers and households across Spain could soon see higher fuel and energy bills again, as temporary VAT reductions on electricity, gas, petrol and diesel are expected to end on June 30. The tax cuts were originally introduced as part of Spain’s anti crisis measures linked to rising energy prices and international instability. But now, with pressure growing to increase public revenue and shift…

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]]> Electric car drivers in Spain are getting 337 new fast chargers https://euroweeklynews.com/2026/05/13/electric-car-drivers-in-spain-are-getting-337-new-fast-chargers/ https://euroweeklynews.com/2026/05/13/electric-car-drivers-in-spain-are-getting-337-new-fast-chargers/#comments Wed, 13 May 2026 19:54:19 +0000 https://euroweeklynews.com/?p=569033 Running low on battery while driving across Spain is still a genuine fear for many electric car owners. Outside the biggest cities, there are still stretches of road where drivers can travel for kilometres without finding a rapid charger that actually works. Now the Spanish government is trying to fix that problem with a €100 million investment aimed at installing 337 new fast charging points…

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]]> https://euroweeklynews.com/2026/05/13/electric-car-drivers-in-spain-are-getting-337-new-fast-chargers/feed/ 2