7 reasons to switch to an electric vehicle in 2025

Discover the benefits of going electric

The transport industry is evolving rapidly, with electric vehicles (EVs) leading the way. If you’re thinking about switching, you’re one of a growing group of drivers plugging in to the many benefits of going electric.

_{Projected EV sales in Ireland. Source: statista.com}

From saving money to protecting the environment and embracing cutting-edge technology, EVs are a smart alternative to petrol and diesel cars.

1. Pocket-friendly power: significant savings on costs

One of the biggest reasons to choose an EV is the substantial reduction in running costs. Charging an EV, especially at home, especially during off-peak hours, can be significantly cheaper than refuelling with petrol or diesel.

A typical EV uses around 0.16 kWh per kilometre^*, meaning that at an electricity rate of €0.30 per kWh, the cost per kilometre is just €0.048. By switching to a Smart EV plan which offers lower night rates, you could reduce charging costs by up to 38%^**. Over time, these savings could add up to thousands of euros. To maximise your savings, explore our EV-specific electricity plans, designed to offer great value for home charging.

2. Simpler design, high reliability: reduced maintenance costs

EVs have a simpler mechanical design with fewer moving parts than petrol or diesel cars, leading to significantly lower maintenance costs. Forget about oil changes, spark plugs, exhaust repairs, and other upkeep typical of internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles. 

EV maintenance focuses mainly on brakes, tyres, and fluids like windscreen washer fluid. Plus, regenerative braking in EVs extends brake pad life, saving you even more.

3. Greener driving, cleaner air: environmental benefits

Switching to an EV is a powerful way to reduce your carbon footprint. EVs produce zero tailpipe emissions, helping to improve air quality and protect the environment. 

In Ireland, where renewable energy is a growing part of the electricity mix, the environmental benefits of EVs are even greater. Want to go further? Our green price plans ensure your usage is matched by renewable electricity generation. Or install Solar PV at home to generate your own renewable electricity for charging.

4. Smooth, silent and powerful: a superior driving experience 

Enjoy instant torque and a quiet, smooth ride. EVs deliver rapid acceleration, making city driving and overtaking a breeze. Their near-silent operation creates a more relaxed and enjoyable journey, free from engine noise and vibrations.

5. Smart technology at your fingertips: advanced features

Modern EVs are packed with the latest technology, from advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) that improve safety to infotainment systems that keep you connected. Many models also get over-the-air updates, ensuring your car always has the latest features and performance enhancements.

6. Government support for electric mobility: incentives and grants

The Irish Government supports EV adoption with grants for home charger installations and EV purchases. Check our EV charger guide for the latest grant information. Installing a smart home charger maximises these benefits, and Bord Gáis Energy can help you choose and install the best option for your needs.

 

7. Expanding the charging network: growing charging infrastructure

Worried about running out of charge? Ireland’s EV charging infrastructure is expanding rapidly, with more public charging points being installed nationwide. Bord Gáis Energy Local Heroes supports this growth by offering smart home chargers. Our EV chargers make home charging easy and efficient, so you can wake up to a fully charged car every day.

^{*Source: https://www.myenergi.com/guides/how-far-can-an-electric-car-go/}

^{**How this was calculated: This estimate is based on a 77 kWh battery and a 7kW home charger. The split-rate calculation assumes 3 hours at Bord Gáis Energy’s Smart EV plan's EV unit rate (€0.0931/kWh) and 4 hours at the night rate (€0.2754/kWh), totalling €17.38. The flat rate comparison assumes all 77 kWh are charged at the standard unit rate of electricity €0.3665/kWh, costing €28.22. Actual costs will vary depending on your electricity provider, tariff, and charging habits.}