In 2003, a Citroën C5 rolled onto the scene with an impressive 390,000 km on its odometer and a "very reliable" engine. This remarkable vehicle is part of the offerings on the new platform Cochesacien launched by the Valencian tech company GuruWalk in Valencia. The platform's purpose is to connect charitable drivers traveling in Madrid with those affected by the cold drop in Valencia. Just a few weeks ago, its creators had already launched a carpool platform to assist the 120,000 drivers who lost their vehicles due to the floods.

Traffic Regulations and Vehicle Restrictions

The traffic regulations in low emission zones pose a significant challenge. Starting from 2025, only vehicles with environmental classification A will be allowed to circulate in Madrid or other Spanish capitals. This category includes gasoline vehicles registered before 2000 and diesel vehicles prior to 2006. As a result, a significant fleet of vehicles is affected, and the online platform now features a dozen cars.Gasoline vehicles registered before 2000 and diesel vehicles registered before 2006 will face restrictions in Madrid from January. This situation has led to creative solutions like the symbolic sale on the platform. The sale is for 100 euros and is conducted outside the platform to connect interested sellers and affected buyers.

Advertised Vehicles on the Platform

At the moment, there is an advertised 1994 Ford Fiesta, another from 2011, a 1994 Peugeot 106, a 2004 Mercedes-Benz A-Class, a 2007 Citroën C3, a 2007 Chrysler Grand Voyager van, and a 2003 Volkswagen Polo. The owner of the 2003 Volkswagen Polo, based in Alcorcón, is willing to part with it without asking for any money. There is also an Audi A3 from a driver in Seville and a Peugeot 307 from a female driver in Massanassa, a town also affected by the flood.The platform does not involve a payment gateway and does not monetize the transactions. It simply serves as a connection between buyers and sellers. Juan Castillo, the CEO, emphasizes that "many people who don't donate do so out of mistrust. Knowing the person you are donating to can motivate many more people to donate." Access to the website is through a brief questionnaire and a form with vehicle information, where the donor can indicate the donation amount. The sale must be completed in person, outside the platform.

The Impact of October Events on the Automotive Market

The events of October have led to an increased need for new vehicles. Many buyers are reporting a clear rise in prices these days. To assess the pulse of the automotive market affected by the floods, the Valencia Motor Show, which opens its doors this Thursday at Feria Valencia, will be a great opportunity. This event focuses on the cold drop, and participating companies aim to provide solutions to the thousands of drivers who have lost their cars and facilitate sales for dealerships, many of which have also been affected.The car show features over 4,000 cars for sale. Due to the expected influx of people needing to renew their damaged vehicles, free shuttle buses have been arranged from l’Horta Sud (Albal, Catarroja, Massanassa, Alfafar, and Benetússer) to Feria Valencia during the fair days. There are two round trip schedules each day, and residents from the affected areas will have free entry by showing their ID card.During the fair, over 4,000 vehicles will be on display, including new and used cars, zero-mileage, pre-owned, or management vehicles. Through discounts and special promotions, the aim is to facilitate the urgent acquisition of vehicles. From Feria, they explain that many brands have strengthened their logistics network to bring a large number of vehicles to Valencia from their dealerships throughout Spain to meet the demand. They are also announcing an immediate delivery stock in the days following the fair.