Uptick in demand

Manufacturers called for the period to be extended by three years until 2028, which the ministry led by Sra Maroto has confirmed will be done as it has already been given the go ­ ahead by the European Union.

Stellantis currently has three electric vehicle assembly plants in Spain, located in Galicia, Zaragoza and Madrid. The Industry ministry is currently negotiating with the firm to boost production and guarantee employment at the three plants for at least another 15 years.

On the other hand, Renault does not currently manufacture electric vehicles in Spain, with production taking place in France. However, the company is negotiating with Sra

Maroto’s department to extend the loan scheme to cover hybrid vehicles ­ which does not look likely, as the EU is focusing its efforts on 100 per cent electric mobility.

But Reyes Maroto has also been in the news for different reasons lately. The Industry chief is planning to leave the ministry shortly in order to stand for the local elections in Madrid for the PSOE on May 28.

Her main rival will be current mayor Jose Luis Martinez Almeida (PP), whose popularity has waned significantly in recent months due to revelations concerning allegedly fraudulent business practices during the Covid pandemic.

The PSOE hopes that Sra Maroto will help put the party back on the map in the Spanish capital after years of very poor results.