Portugal rolls out EV charging network

Wed 01 July 2009 View all news

Portugal announced a plan Monday to install about 1,300 recharging sites for electric vehicles over the next two years, part of an effort to create a mass market for environmentally friendly electric cars expected to go on sale next year. The first phase of deployment will include recharging sites in 21 cities and rural districts chosen for their high population density and traffic volume, the Economy and Innovation Ministry said in a statement.

The sites are to be established at gas stations, shopping malls and wired parking spots, among other places. The network is being built by a consortium of five companies, the government said.

The government has promised tax breaks to encourage the purchase of zero-emission vehicles, and local authorities say they will provide special parking areas in cities for them.

Clients will be offered a slow recharge taking up to eight hours or a faster version lasting less than 30 minutes.

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