A new study by consultancy firm KPMG has highlighted the significant challenges Ireland faces in hitting ambitious electric vehicle adoption tragets. 

The study found that only 4% of respondents have an electric, plug-in hybrid, and non-plug-in hybrid vehicle, compared to 6% in 2023. Less than half (44%) of Irish adults say they definitely would not switch to an electric vehicle in the next five years, up from a third in 2023. 

Openness to plug-in hybrids (38%) and non-plug-in hybrids (32%) also remains low, with many indicating no intention of transitioning to electric or hybrid vehicles. Among younger consumers aged 18-34, 3 in 10 would consider purchasing an EV, compared to just 1 in 10 of those over 45, highlighting a generational divide in attitudes toward electric vehicle adoption. However, 12% of respondents overall did express a strong interest in switching to some form of EV or hybrid with their next purchase. 

Cost remains the most significant barrier for all three vehicle types, electric, plug-in hybrid, and non-plug-in hybrid. This year, 57% cited price as their primary reason for not switching, an increase from half in 2023.

Other barriers include concerns about the driving range of EVs (7%), concerns about new technologies (5%), lack of charging points (4%) and uncertainty about cost savings (4%). These findings underline indicate a lack understanding of the technology among consumers. 

Emma O’Driscoll, Audit Partner at KPMG, emphasises the importance of community engagement, stating, “Drivers need to be informed about EV benefits and have misconceptions addressed. The SEAI estimate drivers can save between 50 and 60% on fuel costs, if they switch from petrol to electric vehicles. These long-term savings need to be communicated more effectively to consumers.”