Costa Rica’s commitment to sustainability is electrifying its roads, literally. Last month, electric vehicles (EVs) reached a significant milestone, accounting for over a quarter of all new vehicle registrations for the very first time. According to recent data, a remarkable **25.6% of new vehicles registered in October were electric**, marking a new high for the country’s adoption of clean transportation.
Electric Vehicle Boom in Costa Rica
The impressive figures were presented at the recent International Electric Mobility Congress in San José by the Costa Rican Electric Mobility Association (ASOMOVE). This data underscores the growing popularity and accessibility of EVs for Costa Rican consumers.
Breaking Down the Numbers
- A total of 1,095 electric vehicles were registered in October.
- Of these, 1,029 were passenger cars.
- The remaining vehicles comprised motorcycles, specialized vehicles, and cargo models.
This surge in EV registrations is not an isolated event but rather the culmination of steady growth throughout the year. Previous months also saw increasing adoption rates, with September registering 21.7% electric vehicles, August at 19.3%, and May at 18.2%. This consistent upward trend, as noted by ASOMOVE’s Executive Director Silvia Rojas, signals significant momentum in Costa Rica’s journey towards sustainable transportation.
Costa Rica Leading the Charge in Latin America
As of the end of September, Costa Rica boasted approximately 31,500 electric vehicles on its roads. Projections indicate that this number could climb to 35,000 by the end of the year, further solidifying Costa Rica’s position as a frontrunner in electric vehicle adoption within Latin America. While countries like Norway lead globally with over 90% electric vehicle sales, Costa Rica stands out in the region for its market penetration of clean transport.
This drive towards electric mobility aligns seamlessly with Costa Rica’s broader goals of reducing carbon emissions and modernizing its public transportation system. The topic has gained significant traction in political discussions, particularly with upcoming elections in 2026, where presidential candidates have expressed support for electrifying transport, developing integrated systems, and streamlining regulations.
Addressing the Infrastructure Gap
Despite the rapid growth in EV adoption, challenges remain, particularly regarding infrastructure. The current charging infrastructure lags behind the increasing number of electric vehicles on the road. As of now, there are only around **78 charging stations** available nationwide to serve a fleet of over 35,000 EVs. This translates to approximately one charger for every 448 electric vehicles, which could hinder wider adoption and convenience.
Infrastructure Needs
- Increased coverage: More charging stations are needed across the country, particularly in rural areas.
- Reliable fast chargers: Drivers need access to reliable and efficient fast-charging options.
To address this, ASOMOVE supports Bill 24.171, which aims to facilitate private companies in installing charging stations and offering charging services. This measure could significantly expand the charging network and improve accessibility for EV drivers.
Market Dynamics and Global Context
Currently, Chinese brands dominate Costa Rica’s electric vehicle market, accounting for approximately 70% of electric cars. Models like the BYD Seagull are popular due to their low ownership costs, which appeal to buyers seeking to reduce expenses amid rising fuel prices and benefiting from existing tax incentives for electric vehicles. Since 2018, the government has extended duty-free imports for fully electric vehicles, a policy that has significantly fueled the trend.
Across Latin America and the Caribbean, the electric vehicle fleet reached over 444,000 units in 2024, nearly tripling the previous year’s figures. Costa Rica’s EV fleet, comprising over 29,000 vehicles, represents about 16% of new vehicle sales in the country. While Brazil and Mexico lead in sheer numbers, smaller nations like Guatemala and the Dominican Republic are experiencing rapid growth in electric vehicle adoption.
Looking Ahead
The recent International Electric Mobility Congress served as a valuable platform for discussing innovations and strategies to further promote sustainable transportation. Speakers highlighted the critical role of electric vehicles in reducing dependence on oil, noting that globally, EVs avoided the consumption of approximately 1.3 million barrels of oil daily last year. For Costa Rica, a nation powered predominantly by renewable energy sources, the shift to electric vehicles promises cleaner air, lower commuting costs, and a more sustainable future.
As Costa Rica continues its journey towards electric mobility, continued action on infrastructure development and policy is essential. The upcoming administration has a unique opportunity to accelerate this transition and position Costa Rica as a leading example for sustainable transportation in the region. The move to electric vehicles is more than a trend; it’s a commitment to a cleaner, greener, and more sustainable future for Costa Rica.
Interested in experiencing Costa Rica’s commitment to sustainability firsthand? Explore our eco-friendly travel options and plan your visit to this remarkable country. Learn more about sustainable travel in Costa Rica.
