Ms Marie Donnelly:

The question around EVs was one we addressed most recently as part of our transport chapter. We are cognisant of the slow uptake of EVs. While there is a good uptake of hybrid cars, there is a slow uptake of EVs.

We are also conscious of the fact that the capital cost required is significant and makes it impossible for some parts of our society to avail of these more efficient and more cost-effective options in terms of transport. That is why we recommended an out-of-the-box recommendation that the Government increase and have dedicated grants of perhaps as much of €10,000 for the purchase of the cheaper EVs, worth less than €35,000, particularly for those in lower-income households and those who do not have ready access to public transport.

A targeted approach to support people to get into these technologies is needed, not just from the climate perspective - it is good from a climate perspective - but also because it is cheaper. Going from a fossil fuel car to an EV will save a driver approximately €1,500 a year on the running costs. That is significant in terms of cost-of-living savings. Yes, the hurdle of capital investment is there. That is where Government investment can come in, through grants and other measures. People can then get the benefit themselves from these technologies that are cheaper and more efficient for them to run.