The measure, which aims to accelerate the replacement of combustion vehicles with electric ones before 2030, is intended for those who scrap a gasoline scooter and purchase a new L1eB category moped, which includes vehicles up to 45 kilometers per hour.
Despite the initiative, motorcycle dealerships in Barcelona report that many motorcyclists arrive without sufficient information about eligible models, necessary procedures, or whether the aid amount truly offsets the change. This situation indicates a lack of clarity in the communication of the subsidy.
“"I believe there is a lack of information on the street."
The subsidy is part of the municipal strategy to fully electrify the two-wheeled vehicle fleet and is set within the context of the Low Emission Zone (ZBE), which restricts the circulation of motorcycles registered before 2003. However, many users are interested in higher displacement models, such as those equivalent to 125 cc, which do not fall within the eligible moped category for the aid.
Buyers' concerns extend beyond price, including battery autonomy and charging times. Some dealerships have not noticed a significant increase in sales, suggesting that the subsidy acts more as an additional incentive than a decisive factor. Others, however, have observed a surge in interest, especially from parents looking to reduce their children's fuel expenses.
The aid application process also raises questions, with some customers perceiving it as slow and complex. Economically, the 600-euro aid covers between 16% and 40% of the cost of eligible mopeds, which range from 1,600 to 3,600 euros. The City Council aims to remove the 24,000 combustion mopeds registered in the city to promote a zero-emission vehicle fleet.
