Eoin Ó Broin
Ceist:80. Deputy Eoin Ó Broin asked the Minister for Transport if he has considered plans to incentivise uptake of electric vehicles in rural areas. [3114/24]
Amharc ar fhreagraWednesday, 24 January 2024
Ceisteanna (80)
Freagraí scríofa
The Government has committed significant funding to support zero and low emitting vehicles through the National Development Plan, which currently includes an allocation of almost €500 million for the period 2021-2025 and additional support from the Climate Action Fund, the Shared Island Fund and the EU Just Transition Fund.
Almost €116m has been allocated in 2024 to ensure the continued transition to electric vehicles which includes funding for EV grants and EV charging infrastructure. This underpins the Government’s commitment to making electric vehicles accessible to all.
Current financial supports from ZEVI, and where applicable with support from the Department of Finance, for the transition to electric vehicles and for the rollout of electric vehicle charging infrastructure include:
• A purchase grant for battery electric vehicles (BEVs);
• A Home Charger purchase grant scheme - up to €300;
• VRT relief of up to €5,000 for the purchase of BEVs;
• Benefit-in-Kind tax relief for battery electric vehicles;
• eSPSV grant scheme – a grant for taxi drivers to make the switch to an EV;
• ZEHDV grant scheme – a grant for HDVs to bridge the gap between a low emission vehicle and a fossil fuel vehicle; and
• Low rate of annual motor tax.
These and related infrastructure supports will continue to incentivise the switch to electric vehicles as well as enabling the expansion of a fast and rapid electric vehicle charging network to stay ahead of demand.
Anyone considering purchasing an electric vehicle can apply for the above listed grants and incentives provided that the criteria are met. There are currently no plans to create a dedicated grant for persons living in rural areas, however all ZEVI schemes are kept under continuous review to ensure alignment with policy.