Electric Cars Maintain Momentum in Ireland’s Automotive Market
Fully electric vehicles have cemented their lead as the most popular category in Ireland’s new car market, with 2,265 units registered last month, marking a 7% rise compared to the previous year. This growth was highlighted by the latest figures from the Society of the Irish Motor Industry (SIMI).
In August, fully electric cars accounted for 26.3% of new car registrations. Hybrid petrol-electric models followed with a 24.14% share, whereas petrol and diesel vehicles captured 20.09% and 12.56%, respectively. Plug-in hybrids made up 14.85% of the market.
The rise of electric cars first overtook hybrids in July—a peak month for car sales—continuing to lead through August. In total, 7,811 new cars were registered during August, a 3% annual increase. Year-to-date, registrations have climbed 5% to 121,979 compared to the same period last year, led largely by the boost in electric car sales.
This year alone, 32,079 electric cars have been registered, marking a sizable 55% increase year-on-year. Toyota continues to dominate as the top-selling car brand, followed by Volkswagen, Skoda, Hyundai, and Kia. The Toyota Yaris Cross emerged as the best-selling individual model, trailed by the Hyundai Tucson and the Skoda Octavia.
In the electric segment, Kia leads, followed by Volkswagen and Hyundai. The Volkswagen ID.4 is the best-selling electric model, with the Tesla Model Y and Skoda Enyaq following closely.
SIMI’s director general, Brian Cooke, remarked that the shift towards electric vehicles is “clearly evident,” emphasizing the importance of government incentives to support and sustain this trend within the developing market. He noted that “Budget 2027 offers an opportunity for the Government to bolster the success of electric vehicle sales by extending current incentives, crucial for maintaining consumer confidence.”
However, not all vehicle categories mirrored this electric surge. New registrations of light commercial vehicles fell by 10% to 2,382 in August, yet have risen by 7% year-to-date, totaling 29,604. Heavy goods vehicle registrations increased by 9% to 223 in August, though they decreased by 1% to 2,205 this year.
On the used car front, imported vehicles saw a dramatic 36% rise to 8,093 in August compared to last year. Year-to-date, imports have expanded by 37% to 63,815.
These shifts indicate a dynamic evolution in Ireland’s automotive landscape, with electric vehicles driving change. While the market adapts to these trends, sustained growth and consumer assurance could hinge on supportive governmental policies. For the full report, visit Irishexaminer.com.
