With more than two million electric cars now on the world’s roads, we can now truly say that the electric vehicle revolution is firmly in motion.
On home soil, the revolution has been gathering momentum with early adopters setting the trend and showcasing the benefits of electric driving.
Thanks to the roll out of 1,100 public charge points across the island of Ireland, we now have one of the most comprehensive electric vehicle (EV) charge point networks across Europe. And that infrastructure continues to be developed to enhance the drivers’ experience.
For example, fast charge points are now located approximately every 60km along the main urban routes, mostly at convenient service stations. Allowing users the ability to charge their car within a 25 minute period to continue their journey is a serious game changer to encourage the uptake of electro-mobility in Ireland, and beyond.
Infrastructure Matters
Coupled with the availability of home charge units, users have the power and ability to plan both short and long journeys. Interestingly, unlike other European charging systems, the Irish network operates on a one-card basis so that all charge points are available for use by all EV drivers.
‘You can re-charge your car every night - just like your mobile phone.’ Val Behan, electric vehicle driver.
Use of the infrastructure is also supported by an app that provides real-time public charge point and occupancy information across web and mobile platforms, with a 24/7 customer support helpline also available.
Driving an ecar
The plethora of new electric vehicle launches in recent times by the world’s leading manufacturers is another indication of how the revolution is sweeping the world. Their investment in new technology to extend vehicle driving range reflects the demand for cleaner and more efficient modes of transport. Indeed, the dominance of electric at the recent Paris Motor show demonstrates this move away from conventional cars.
‘The charge point infrastructure that ESB has put in place is a revelation. You can drive with great confidence because there are charge points everywhere.’ Emma Banks, Glenisk. Emma was a participant in our Great Electric Drive initiative.
Running Costs
Lower running costs is obviously a huge factor in the decision making process for potential buyers. Electric Vehicles are three times more efficient than conventional cars and the overall running costs can be between seven and five times cheaper than petrol or diesel cars. Night rate electricity means that overnight charging at home can cost as little as €2.70 for a full charge (30kWh battery with a range of 170kms).
As electric vehicles have also fewer moving parts than conventional ones, maintenance costs are substantially lower.
Financial incentives
The Government offers a number of incentives to encourage the uptake of electric vehicles:
- Pure electric cars receive a €5,000 grant on the purchase price
- VRT relief of up to €5,000
- Lowest annual motor tax band of €120.00
- Businesses can avail of accelerated capital allowances for electric vehicles and certain charging products.
The Electric Future
The threats to our environment have forced us to think about the way we live, including the way we travel. It has been necessary to develop new technologies and to offer innovative solutions to meet daily driving needs. The increased electrification of transport is a vital component of the fight to tackle climate change and to improve the environment for everybody - today and for generations to come.
Growing awareness has meant that drivers worldwide have been making the change to electric vehicles. The improved air quality in cities and towns alone will save governments millions each year in health care, as well as bring us all closer to our reduced carbon emission targets
The infrastructure now in place in Ireland means we are well positioned to meet the demands of future growth in electric vehicles and the eventual decarbonisation of the transport sector and society as a whole. The journey continues - why not join us?