Shanna Collins, Government and Infrastructure Director at EY Ireland, commenting on today’s CSO Vehicles Licensed for the first time – September 2026, said:
“Electric vehicles accounted for 42% of new private cars licensed in September 2026, highlighting the scale of the transition underway in Ireland’s new-car market. However, the shift is not confined to new-car buyers. Used electric imports increased by 136% compared with September last year, suggesting demand is broadening and creating another route into electric ownership.
For consumers, affordability means more than the showroom price. Purchase and financing costs, running costs and potential resale value all matter. A growing used EV market could bring electric ownership within reach of a wider range of household budgets.
Government investment in charging infrastructure is another important part of the transition, with plans to expand neighbourhood charging and high-powered hubs along national roads. The priority is to deliver a reliable, accessible network that keeps pace with adoption and meets motorists’ everyday needs.
The next phase is about turning growing uptake into sustained demand by making electric ownership a practical and affordable choice for more households.”