To buy a coffee truck in Spain, focus on budget, homologation, and trading permits before choosing a chassis. Expect €25k–€80k all-in: used N1 vans (Renault Master/Nissan NV200) offer payload and ZBE-friendly Euro 6; Piaggio Ape or HY replicas are iconic but limit equipment. Require: vehicle homologation + ITV, gas certificate if LPG, 80–100 L fresh/grey water tanks, 2‑group 3 kW espresso machine, 65 mm grinder, 9–10 bar pump, inverter/battery or 5–7 kVA generator, and food‑grade surfaces. Register as autónomo, alta en Hacienda (IAE hostelería/venta ambulante según actividad) and Seguridad Social, obtain registro sanitario autonómico, APPCC (HACCP) plan, civil liability and road insurance, and municipal venta ambulante/ocupación de vía pública permits (each ayuntamiento issues spots and fees). Fit cashless TPV, QR menu, and thermal printer; stock 20–30 kg coffee/week with water filtration. ROI: at €2.80/ticket and €0.35 COGS, 150 cups/day ≈ €367 gross margin; break‑even in 8–14 months depending on finance and site rent. Prioritize morning footfall near offices, universities, mercados; secure event calendars (ferias, fiestas), and winter ski/costal summer pivots. Demand Euro 6 or electric in Madrid/Barcelona ZBEs. Inspect welds, electrics, drainage, and weight distribution; insist on CE docs, wiring/plumbing schematics, and a 12‑month builder warranty. Negotiate lead times, staged payments, and training on equipment maintenance.
