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Electric Vehicles

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 13 October 2020

Tuesday, 13 October 2020

Ceisteanna (34, 41)

Steven Matthews

Ceist:

34. Deputy Steven Matthews asked the Minister for Environment, Climate and Communications if he will investigate the existing grants that are available to assist in purchasing electric commercial vehicles through SEAI in view of the fact this only applies to vehicles such as vans; and if it has been considered to expand this to include cars for commercial use. [30103/20]

Amharc ar fhreagra

Alan Farrell

Ceist:

41. Deputy Alan Farrell asked the Minister for Environment, Climate and Communications the incentives being designed to encourage greater commercial uptake of electric vehicles in the private and public sectors; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29943/20]

Amharc ar fhreagra

Freagraí scríofa

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.

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