Almost One In Three New Cars Sold In Wexford Is Now Electric

Almost one in three new cars registered in County Wexford this year is electric as EV sales continue to grow sharply.

Figures discussed by the motor industry show 3,232 new cars have been sold in Wexford so far this year, with just over 1,000 of those being electric vehicles.

EV registrations in the county are up by more than 82 per cent.

The figures mean electric vehicles are heading towards a 30 per cent share of Wexford's new-car market.

Industry representatives say greater consumer confidence in battery technology, driving range and the cost of running an EV is contributing to the increase.

Wexford's network of dealerships and the growing choice of electric models are also being credited with supporting the rise.

That's according to Tom Cullen from the Society of Motor Industry. He also says the second-hand EV market is strengthening too.

This is seen as particularly important because the majority of motorists buy used rather than new vehicles.

Despite the sharp growth in new registrations, electric cars are still estimated to account for only around five per cent of the total vehicle fleet, meaning a significant transition remains ahead.

Charging infrastructure also continues to be an issue.

While many motorists can charge their vehicle at home, concerns remain for drivers who rely on public charging facilities.

Tom says some motorists still encounter chargers which are occupied or out of service, while greater availability of fast charging is needed on major routes.

Modern electric vehicles can now typically offer ranges of between approximately 350 and 650 kilometres, significantly reducing the range anxiety associated with earlier models.

There are also calls for existing EV grants and tax incentives to be maintained to allow the market to continue growing.