Running costs are what pushes Irish consumers towards electric vehicles, according to DoneDeal.
The marketplace’s recent survey found that 61% of respondents said that lower running costs is why they’re considering an EV.
It is estimated that EVs can be about 60% cheaper to run than petrol or diesel cars.
Two thirds of the consumers surveyed by DoneDeal described themselves as interested or very interested in switching to an electric vehicle.
However, fewer people believe they can choose the right model with “battery uncertainty” being a key reason, DoneDeal found.
For new EV buyers, a manufacturer warranty covering the battery is by far the biggest confidence factor when it comes to purchasing, cited by 88% of respondents.
Driving range on a single charge and battery lifespan are the main concerns for potential EV buyers.
Battery health is also a key metric on the second-hand market, DoneDeal experts say.
More than half of the respondents said say they would buy their next EV used rather than new. Most of them would be reassured if a used EV had battery health report, remaining manufacturer battery warranty and a full service history.
“New EV buyers want a long battery warranty Irish buyers and when it comes to used EVs it is also about the battery and what state it is in”, said Paddy Comyn, Head of Automotive content and communication at DoneDeal.
“A clear battery health report, a real warranty and a full service history will do more to convert interest into sales than another round of price cuts.”
Volkswagen, Toyota, Skoda and Hyundai are among most considered brands.
China’s BYD was considered by almost a third of all respondents – already ahead of established brands like Audi, Volvo, BMW and Tesla.
