tech
May 2, 2026
Electric cars fight for a plug: there are 174 vehicles on the road for every charging station in Colombia
In Colombia there is evident emotion and acceptance for electric vehicles, as more than 19,724 new units were sold in 2025, according to the Andi and Fenalco vehicle registration report. However, there is a vital link in this transition that is not growing at the same pace as its sales, and that is the charging infrastructure.
TL;DR
- Over 19,724 new electric vehicles were sold in Colombia in 2025.
- The country has only 229 public charging points for approximately 40,000 electric cars.
- International standards suggest a ratio of one public charger per ten electric vehicles for adequate coverage.
- Users report experiencing wait times of four to six hours for charging.
- The rapid growth of the electric vehicle market (267% increase in March 2026 compared to March 2025) is outpacing the expansion of the charging network.
- Companies like Terpel and Grupo EPM operate a significant portion of the public charging stations.
- Problems extend beyond the number of stations to include poor location, insufficient power, interoperability issues, and outdated equipment.
- Experts believe the issue is more about planning and strategy than the electrical grid's capacity.
- Residential and private charging solutions can supplement public infrastructure, but highway charging requires fast stations.
- Colombia will need approximately 20,000 public charging points by 2030, requiring an investment of $255-390 million.
- Challenges include high installation costs, permits, electrical modifications, and a lack of real-time information.
- Interoperability, allowing different vehicles to use various stations seamlessly, is an ongoing development.
- The current situation reflects a common pattern in technological transitions where demand outpaces infrastructure.