I propose to take Questions Nos. 34 and 41 together.
My Department currently provides a generous range of supports available through the SEAI to support the purchase of electric vehicles and related charging infrastructure. The priority of the Government, at this time, is to target supports where they can have the most effect in aiding Ireland's transition to a low carbon economy.
In order to qualify for the electric vehicle purchase grant, the electric vehicle must be classified as M1 (private passenger vehicle) or N1 (light commercial vehicle). Commercial Grants for battery electric vehicles (BEVs) and plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs) in the M1 class were discontinued last year. While the Department continues to review the EV support schemes on an on-going basis there are no plans currently to reinstate this grant.
It should be noted that there is a generous benefit-in-kind tax relief available to support the purchase of battery electric vehicles by businesses. Other incentives available include:
- motor tax of €120 for battery electric vehicles;
- a discount on tolls of 50% for battery electric vehicles and 25% for plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (up to a maximum amount of €500 per year with greater reductions off-peak on the M50); and
- grants of up to €12,500 to support the purchase of electric vehicles in the taxi/hackney/limousine sector.
More information is available at .www.drivingelectric.ie.