Portugal Expands Ultra-Fast EV Charging Infrastructure Amidst Record Usage Surge
New high-speed hubs on the A3 motorway support a national shift toward electric mobility.
1Strategic A3 Infrastructure Expansion
The Brisa group has launched a major ultra-fast charging hub at the Trofa service area on the A3 motorway. This facility features 12 charging points with capacities reaching 400 kW. It serves both directions of the Porto-Valença route, marking a significant step in strengthening the northern electric vehicle charging network.
2Rapid Charging Performance Metrics
These new stations enable electric vehicles to charge from 20% to 80% capacity in approximately 15 to 20 minutes. High-performance vehicles may achieve this in just 8 to 10 minutes, depending on specific technical capabilities. The site also incorporates solar panels to enhance the sustainability of the energy supply provided.
3National Charging Network Targets
Brisa currently manages 280 charging points across its motorway network, with a strategic goal to reach 350 stations. This expansion involves an investment exceeding 20 million euros, supported by partnerships with companies like Galp, BP, and EDP. The Trofa hub alone is projected to facilitate 25,000 charging sessions next year.
4Regulatory Hurdles for Infrastructure
CEO Eduardo Ramos emphasizes that the current licensing process for electric charging stations must be accelerated to meet growing demand. While the group continues to expand infrastructure to ensure driver confidence, administrative delays remain a primary concern for operators aiming to keep pace with the rapid adoption of electric vehicles.
5Surging National Charging Volume
Data from the Mobi.e network reveals that monthly charging sessions in Portugal surpassed one million in October. This figure represents a 33% increase compared to October 2025. Furthermore, energy consumption reached over 24,000 MWh, while the number of unique users climbed by 94% year-over-year, totaling approximately 254,000 active participants.
6Network Capacity and Reach
As of late October, Portugal’s public network comprised 8,235 charging stations, offering 16,360 individual points. Notably, over 3,420 of these stations provide fast or ultra-fast charging capabilities, accounting for more than 41% of the total infrastructure. This expansion is essential for supporting the rising number of electric vehicles on national roads.
7Market Shift Toward Electrification
Electric vehicles are gaining significant market share, driven partly by rising fuel prices linked to conflicts in the Middle East. In October, 100% electric cars accounted for 41.6% of new registrations, while plug-in hybrids added another 13.3%. Total automotive sales in Portugal have grown by over 10% compared to 2025.
8Environmental and Economic Impact
The shift toward electric mobility has yielded measurable environmental benefits, preventing over 180,000 tons of carbon dioxide emissions in the first ten months of 2026. Despite this progress, Brisa reports a 15% decline in traditional motorway traffic, attributed to high fuel costs, which particularly impacted leisure-related travel across the country.