HAVANA (AP) — Cuba is experiencing a fuel crisis that has left many of its vintage American cars, known as "almendrones," idle. The crisis, which has worsened since January, is attributed by Cuban officials to a U.S. energy blockade. Diriel Valdez, a resident of Las Minas, is restoring a 1951 Chevrolet Deluxe but struggles to find fuel. He is currently number 2,800 in line for gasoline through a government reservation app.
Cuba's energy crisis has led to daily blackouts lasting up to 20 hours in some areas. The country produces only about 40% of the fuel it consumes and relies heavily on imports. Since January, U.S. sanctions have intensified, complicating fuel supply efforts.
Omar Everleny Pérez, a former economist, noted that the aging American cars remain vital for transportation across Cuba, especially as new vehicles are unaffordable for most citizens. While some drivers are turning to the black market for fuel, prices can reach up to $8 per liter. Despite these challenges, some Cubans continue to rely on the almendrones as they adapt to the changing transportation landscape, which includes the emergence of electric vehicles and solar-powered charging stations.