Electric Vehicle (EV) or Battery Electric Vehicle (BEV) run entirely on electricity. 

They have an electric motor instead of an internal combustion engine. The vehicle emits no tailpipe emissions and does not contain the typical liquid fuel components, such as a fuel pump, fuel line, or fuel tank. The car is charged by plugging it directly into an electric charging system. 

Charging EVs can be done through the National Charging Infrastructure which operates throughout the island of Ireland (both fast and slow charging), through a home charger which can be installed at your home, or by workplace charging. The electricity is stored in batteries within the car that feed an electric motor which propels the wheels and gets you moving. There is no other source of fuel in this car.  

This guide focuses on Electric Vehicles (EVs), as a new technology there is much curiosity and questions surrounding EVs, how they work, how they are charged, what distance can they travel, etc. Additionally, a lot of misinformation, myths, and confusion have circulated due to a lack of understanding of electric vehicles and battery technologies. This guide seeks to answer common EV questions and queries, along with information on grant supports and charging infrastructure. We aim to help you understand more about Electric Vehicles, especially if you are considering buying a new or second-hand Electric Vehicle (EV).

The Government has made available incentives, including VRT relief and SEAI Grants. In addition, there are supports for home charging points, and for company car purchasers benefit in kind (BIK) incentives. See our grants section for more details. 

• EVs can save you money: electricity is nearly always cheaper than filling an ICE vehicle with petrol or diesel – particularly if you charge the battery of the car at home. SEAI found that there was a 74% reduction in transport costs compared to a comparable new diesel engine car. They also have the lowest rate of motor tax at €120 per annum. 
• Reduced running costs: According to the SEAI, EVs have 90% fewer moving parts than ICE vehicles, which means lower running costs as there are fewer moving parts to look after but like all cars, they still need to be serviced regularly. 
• Environmental alternative to petrol or diesel cars: Battery Electric Vehicles (BEVs) have a lower carbon footprint as they produce zero tailpipe emissions of CO2 and NOx at all times, which leads to improved air quality and helps combat climate change. 
• Better driving experience: Electric Vehicles (EVs) provide instant torque for smooth, responsive acceleration, and offer regenerative breaking when easing off the accelerator. As an automatic vehicle, they are very easy to drive. 
• Charging your car at home: Convenient and saves money, as it reduces the need for public charging, and drivers can also benefit from cheaper electricity night rates. 
• EVs benefit from Government incentives and grants: to assist with the purchase of an EV and to install a home charger, grants are available.

Electric cars are a perfect alternative for many drivers. Make sure to check out the following checklist for potential purchasers: 

• The Purchase Price? Is it within your budget? 
• Does it suit your driving needs? 
• What charging Infrastructure that you will use? home/public
• Can you get the grant for a home charger and is your house suitable for home charging? 
• Work out how much it will cost to use with the benefit of existing incentives and the cost of electricity. 
• The cost of charging and the potential savings? Check out SEAI journey cost calculator 
• Will the electric vehicle do what you need it to do? 
• The resale value of your vehicle?
• Compare cars- compare EV, petrol and diesel vehicles in Ireland to see how much you can save in costs and emissions. See SEAI tool.