The rollout of fast charging infrastructure in Ireland is having a significant impact on the sale of electric vehicles (EVs), positively influencing the adoption of EVs across the country. Several key factors demonstrate how this infrastructure rollout is benefiting EV sales:

1. Increased Consumer Confidence

Range Anxiety Reduction: One of the main barriers to EV adoption is range anxiety—the fear that an EV might run out of battery before reaching a charging station. The rapid expansion of fast-charging stations throughout Ireland is helping alleviate this concern. With more charging points, particularly high-speed ones, consumers feel more confident in the practicality of owning an EV.
Convenience: The rollout of fast chargers allows drivers to quickly charge their vehicles, making EVs much more convenient for longer trips. This is especially important in Ireland, where driving distances between urban centers can be significant.

2. Support for EV Ownership in Rural Areas

Wider Coverage: While much of Ireland's population lives in cities like Dublin, Cork, and Galway, rural areas have been slower to adopt EVs due to a lack of charging infrastructure. However, the installation of fast chargers outside urban centers is helping address this issue, making EV ownership more feasible for people living in the countryside or smaller towns.
Government Incentives: The Irish government is actively supporting this infrastructure development as part of its broader climate and sustainability goals. Grants, tax breaks, and subsidies encourage both businesses and consumers to invest in EVs, further driving demand.

3. Increased EV Adoption

Faster Charging, More EVs: The presence of fast chargers reduces the time it takes to charge an EV, making them more comparable to refueling a petrol or diesel vehicle in terms of convenience. As a result, more consumers are willing to transition to EVs, knowing they won’t have to wait for long periods to charge.
Market Growth: EV sales in Ireland have been steadily growing, and the expansion of fast charging infrastructure is contributing to this growth. In 2023, EVs accounted for around 20% of new car sales in Ireland, and this percentage is expected to increase as infrastructure improves.

4. Business and Fleet EV Adoption

Fleet Transition: The availability of fast chargers is also encouraging businesses to switch their fleets to electric. Companies see that their drivers can quickly charge vehicles during the day, which is vital for businesses requiring high mobility and delivery services. This is especially important in urban centers where businesses might rely on a higher number of vehicles for logistics.
Public Charging Access: Increased charging options, such as those at retail parks, hotels, and workplaces, make it easier for businesses and individuals to access charging points, leading to a smoother transition for those considering EVs.

5. Improved Resale Value and Market Demand

Increased Value for Second-hand EVs: With an increasing number of fast chargers, the resale market for EVs becomes more attractive. Consumers are more likely to buy a second-hand EV if they know they will have access to reliable charging infrastructure.
Second-hand Market Growth: As more people adopt EVs, there’s a growing demand for used EVs, making it easier for people to transition to electric driving without the high upfront costs of new vehicles.

6. Government Support and Future Projections

Government Funding and Regulations: The Irish government has set ambitious targets for EV adoption, aiming for a carbon-neutral transport sector by 2050. In alignment with this goal, Ireland has increased funding for public charging stations, including fast chargers. This is expected to continue boosting EV adoption.
2025 Target: With a target to install 1,500 new fast chargers by 2025, the accelerated development of charging networks will help Ireland stay on track to achieve its EV adoption goals. This creates a sense of urgency for drivers to make the switch to EVs in anticipation of further incentives.

7. Environmental and Policy Alignment

Sustainability Trends: As more fast-charging stations are deployed, and the grid becomes greener with renewable energy integration, consumers are increasingly drawn to EVs as a sustainable alternative to traditional vehicles. The infrastructure rollout is directly supporting Ireland's broader environmental and energy goals.

Conclusion

In summary, the rollout of fast charging infrastructure in Ireland is having a positive effect on the sale of EVs. By reducing range anxiety, increasing convenience, and supporting government policies and incentives, the expanded charging network is making EVs more attractive to a wide range of consumers. This trend is expected to continue, with the growing infrastructure helping to drive the transition toward a greener, electric future.

Irish fast charging roll out - our view