From First Charge to Everyday Confidence, Tips from Ireland’s EV Drivers
Making the move to an electric vehicle (EV) can feel like a big step. Will the range be enough? Is charging complicated? What about the cost?
We spoke to a group of EV drivers from across Ireland, for an insider’s guide. They confirmed that while questions like these are common, the reality of life with an EV is much easier and far more rewarding than most people expect.
Cost Savings That Add Up
One of the biggest reasons the drivers we spoke to switched, was the savings. Charging at home, especially at night on cheaper tariffs, is far more affordable than filling up at the pump. Many drivers with solar panels say they get even more value by charging their cars directly from their own energy. Servicing is cheaper too, with fewer moving parts to maintain and far more predictable costs.
Charging Is Easier Than You Think
Before buying, many of the drivers we spoke to worried about “range anxiety.” But once they switched, most quickly discovered that charging becomes second nature. The majority plug in at home overnight, so the car is ready to go every morning. Some also make use of workplace charging, while public charging is mainly used for longer journeys. The key takeaway, charging fits into your routine, it’s not the hassle they once feared.
Busting the Myths
EV owners still hear plenty of myths from friends and family, from “the battery will only last three years” to “those cars catch fire all the time.” None of these stand up to reality. In fact, drivers reported that sceptical relatives were often happy to accept a lift once they experienced the smooth, quiet drive for themselves.
A Better Driving Experience
Many drivers say their EV is the most enjoyable car they’ve ever owned. The instant acceleration, quiet drive, and calmer driving style all add up to a better experience.
Once You Switch, You Won’t Want to Go Back
Perhaps the strongest endorsement of EVs we spoke to was that most owners wouldn’t return to petrol or diesel. Even those who started with a plug-in hybrid say they’d now skip straight to a full EV. For high-mileage drivers, careful planning means cross-country journeys are stress-free. Once the switch is made, there’s no looking back.
Ready to Make the Change?
According to the Irish EV drivers we spoke to, the benefits outweigh the costs. If you’re considering the switch, explore our online resources to make your journey easier:
- EV grants and supports - see what financial help is available
https://www.zevi.ie/supports-schemes - Home charging guides - learn how to set up convenient, cost-effective charging.
https://www.seai.ie/blog/ev-charging-at-home - EV cost calculators - compare the running costs of EVs vs petrol or diesel. https://www.seai.ie/about/tools/journey-calculator.
Your next car could save you money, reduce your emissions, and make driving a whole lot more enjoyable. Why wait?
Want to know more?
Visit the dedicated support and schemes page to explore about the grants and incentives available for EV drivers.
