There has never been a better time to buy an EV
The new year is a time when a lot of people consider buying a new car. With savings on running costs and a grant from SEAI towards the purchase of your vehicle, many are now choosing to make the switch to electric.
Make the switch
Global electric vehicle sales have increased, with one in five new cars sold being a Battery Electric Vehicle (BEV) and Ireland is no exception. Electric vehicle ownership increased by 36% in 2025 compared to 2024, closely mirroring trends elsewhere in Europe with uptake increasing by 35% in both the UK and Germany. 2025 was also the first year that battery electric vehicles in Ireland, at 19% market share, outsold diesel cars at 17%.
Save money
By choosing an EV, there is a 74% reduction in transport costs compared to a comparable new diesel engine car and the lowest rate of motor tax at €120 per annum. There has never been a better time to buy an EV. Owning an EV is the more affordable long-term choice for drivers, with lower fuel costs, lower maintenance costs, and lower tax compared to petrol or diesel alternatives. I save €2,500 per annum with an average mileage of 15,000km but that figure will vary from driver to driver. More energy providers are also offering lower rates for charging your car at off peak hours, resulting in even more cost savings.
Owning an EV is the more affordable long-term choice for motorists, with lower fuel costs, lower maintenance costs, and lower tax compared to petrol or diesel alternatives
Get an EV grant
Drivers can avail of up to €3,500 in Government grants from SEAI towards the purchase of a qualifying EV and the installation of a home charger. The grant is applied for by the dealer and already discounted from the price of the vehicle, making it even easier for the customer. In 2025, SEAI supported more than 18,600 EV purchases and 16,000 home charger installations throughout Ireland.
Electric Vehicles are always improving in design, style and performance.
The driving range of electric vehicles continue to increase with the average range for new models between 350 and 550 kms. Electric vehicles often come with a very high electronics specification as standard. This may include advanced cruise control, SatNav and Bluetooth while heated seating and steering wheels are also frequently offered. Charging timers allow you to tap into cheaper night rate electricity. Many of the electric vehicles on the market offer a smartphone app so you can access them remotely. Apps can offer several functions depending on your model, including pre-heating seats, de-icing and battery life.
Using our brakes to slow down for traffic lights and stop signs creates much of the energy loss in our vehicles. Electric vehicles reduce this loss by using the motor to slow down the car when you take your foot off the accelerator. The energy is sent back into the battery, in turn allowing an increased driving range. Many electric vehicles allow the driver to adjust the regeneration effect to suit their driving style.
Compare the running costs and emissions for the range of new electric, petrol and diesel vehicles for 2026 below.
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