Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 15 June 2022
12. Deputy Steven Matthews asked the Minister for Transport his views on the conversion of the internal combustion engine vehicles to electric vehicles; if his Department has carried out any research into the merits of the practice; if any grant funding is being considered; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31358/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Department of Transport is aware of initiatives in the area of conversion of internal combustion engine vehicles to electric and is giving the matter active consideration.
Innovations that provide reliable solutions for people who are willing to transition to electric vehicles are to be welcomed, particularly if they provide options for people who might otherwise be unable to afford a new vehicle.
Officials in my Department have engaged with organisations within the motor industry providing an ICE vehicle to EV conversion option. It appears that at this point in time, due to costs and battery size and range, the conversion is not yet feasible of being delivered at scale. There is also a scarcity of suitable batteries due to global supply chain issues.
Once these feasibility issues can be resolved satisfactorily, vehicle conversion will have the potential to offer a viable solution for people who are willing to make the transition to electric vehicles but who may encounter affordability barriers in terms of purchasing a new EV. I have asked my officials to keep in touch with industry stakeholders on this matter.
