Cuba is facing a severe fuel crisis, putting its iconic ‘almendrones’—vintage American cars—at risk. These cars, vital as shared taxis, are struggling due to fuel shortages attributed to a U.S. energy blockade. In Bacuranao near Havana, long lines form at gas stations, a common scene since January 2026.
Diriel Valdez, living in Las Minas near Havana, is rebuilding a 1951 Chevrolet Deluxe. Despite the car’s intact body and working engine, obtaining fuel remains challenging. Valdez registered on a government app for fuel in February and is still waiting, with over 2,800 others ahead of him. He hopes for 20 liters, just enough for a trip to the beach.
Almendrones and Cuban Ingenuity
The term almendrón stems from the Spanish for almond, alluding to the shape of American sedans imported before 1959. Shortages and sanctions forced Cuban mechanics to improvise with engines, bodies, and parts from diverse sources. Around Havana, Leonardo Daniel González drives a 1948 Chevrolet passed down through generations.
Fuel Crisis Intensifies
Cuba now faces one of its worst energy crises, with blackouts up to 20 hours in some areas. The island produces 40% of its needed fuel and heavily relies on imports. The Trump administration’s tightened sanctions and threats of tariffs have worsened fuel import challenges, leaving only one Russian oil delivery.
Valdez’s auto repair business also suffers due to the energy crisis. Classic car repairs have declined as owners lose hope in their vehicles’ utility.
Search for Alternatives
With gas scarcity, drivers turn to Cuba’s black market, paying up to $8 per liter. Omar Everleny Pérez, a former economist, states Cuba’s transportation still heavily depends on almendrones due to expensive modern cars.
New vehicles, including Chinese electric motorcycles and cars, are slowly appearing, supported by solar-powered charging stations. Despite challenges, the almendrones endure. González, leveraging WhatsApp groups for transport jobs, persists in using his vintage Chevy amid declining tourism.
Alternative transportation methods are emerging, yet Cuba’s cultural attachment to these vintage vehicles persists, resilient in the face of crisis.
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