TL;DR
- Record number of new electric cars registered in Ireland in 2025
- 5 Best selling EVs in Ireland in 2025 were VOLKSWAGEN ID.4; TESLA MODEL 3; KIA EV3; TESLA MODEL Y; HYUNDAI INSTER
- Volkswagen remains the top-selling EV brand, followed closely by Kia and Tesla.
- Volkswagen ID.4 is Ireland’s most popular electric car model
- Affordable entries like the Hyundai Inster are opening up the EV market
- EV car trends in Ireland for 2026
The shift to electric driving in Ireland has reached a new milestone, with the most recent data from the Society of the Irish Motor Industry (SIMI) showing a total of 23,601 new electric vehicles (EVs) registered in 2025. This marks a huge jump (35%) in EV sales and is the highest number ever recorded for EVs in Ireland.
What makes the 2025 figures particularly interesting is the mix of cars that Irish drivers are choosing. While familiar brands like Volkswagen and Tesla still dominate the top of the table, the arrival of new, more affordable models suggests that the market is widening.
Best-Selling EV Models in Ireland for 2026
The 2025 EV sales data shows a highly competitive marketplace with an increasing number of Irish drivers switching to electric cars. All in, electric, hybrid and plug-in hybrids now make up 56% of the Irish car market, with battery EVs alone showing a 35% increase in overall sales in 2025.
There are many reasons for this, the fluctuating price of petrol and diesel, more electric models hitting the Irish market, improvements to both electric cars and charging points, as well as economic incentives to buy electric are all big encouragements for consumers.
However, while there are now more electric models available than ever before, a small group of clear favourites has emerged. The top five best-selling models combined accounted for nearly one-third of all new electric car registrations last year, with over 7,000 units sold between them. Check out our list below to learn more about some of the best electric cars in Ireland for 2026.
|
Rank |
Make |
Model |
2025 Units |
2025 % Share |
|
1 |
Volkswagen |
ID.4 |
2,036 |
8.63% |
|
2 |
Tesla |
Model 3 |
1,558 |
6.60% |
|
3 |
Kia |
EV3 |
1,272 |
5.39% |
|
4 |
Tesla |
Model Y |
1,211 |
5.13% |
|
5 |
Hyundai |
Inster |
1,005 |
4.26% |
Data Source: SIMI New Car Registrations Data 2025
Volkswagen ID.4
The Volkswagen ID.4 has retained its position as the default choice for Irish families. Its success lies in its familiarity. It offers a conventional SUV shape, a spacious cabin that rivals the Tiguan, and a badge that Irish drivers have trusted for decades. Updates in late 2024 and throughout 2025 improved the infotainment software and battery efficiency, addressing early criticisms. For many, it remains the safe, sensible transition from a diesel family car to an electric one.
Tesla Model 3
After a brief dip in popularity, the Model 3 saw a resurgence in 2025, likely driven by the arrival of the updated “Highland” version. This refresh fixed many complaints about cabin noise and suspension comfort while adding features like a rear touchscreen for passengers. It remains the benchmark for efficiency, offering range figures that few competitors can match at the same price point. The extensive Supercharger network also continues to be a major selling point for high-mileage drivers.
Kia EV3
The Kia EV3 is the most significant new entry on this list. Launched as a compact SUV, it brings the futuristic design of the flagship EV9 down to a much more accessible price point. Its popularity in 2025 is largely due to its impressive range, with the long-range battery option offering over 600km on a single charge, a figure previously reserved for much more expensive luxury cars. But just to note, testing standards figures and may vary depending on driving style, weather conditions, road surface and other factors. It has quickly become a favourite for smaller families and urban commuters who still want the reassurance of a long-distance battery.
Tesla Model Y
The Model Y remains a strong seller, sitting comfortably in fourth place. It effectively takes the formula of the Model 3 and applies it to a taller, more practical crossover body. While it lacks some of the fresher design updates seen on the new Model 3, its massive boot space and “frunk” (front trunk) storage make it incredibly practical. It is arguably the most versatile car on this list for carrying sports gear, buggies, or flat-pack furniture.
Hyundai Inster
The surprise entry of the year is the Hyundai Inster. This A-segment city SUV (based on the Casper sold in other markets) has tapped into a massive demand for affordable electric runarounds. With a smaller footprint and a lower price tag than almost anything else in its class, it has found a home with commuters and two-car households. Its success proves that not everyone needs a 500km range; many drivers simply want a cost-effective way to handle the school run and city commute.
What this tells us about Irish drivers
The 2025 data points to two key trends emerging. First, brand loyalty, or at least brand recognition, remains a strong influence. Despite the entry of new manufacturers like BYD into the Irish market, buyers are largely sticking with more established names like Volkswagen, Kia and Hyundai.
Second, the size gap is closing. For years, the electric market was dominated by large, heavy SUVs. The success of the compact Kia EV3 and the smaller Hyundai Inster points to manufacturers finally producing cars that better suit narrow Irish roads and commuters.
Electric Car Trends in Ireland
What all this points to is an electric car scene in Ireland that is buzzing with innovation and growth. We have moved past the early adopter phase where just the novelty alone was enough to sell a car. And, as we move further into 2026, we see a larger continuation of the trends that have shaped the electric car industry in Ireland to date.
Increased Adoption
The adoption of electric vehicles (EVs) is soaring. Irish drivers are increasingly leaning towards EVs, driven by the dual allure of environmental consciousness and technological advancement. The soaring prices of petrol and diesel are nudging consumers to explore more economical and eco-friendly alternatives.
More Options
The variety of electric cars gracing the Irish roads grows more and more each year. From luxury models like the BMW i4 to the budget-friendly yet efficient Hyundai Inster, there are more options to suit the budget and lifestyle of consumers in Ireland.
Charging Infrastructure
The charging infrastructure in Ireland has and continues to undergo a significant overhaul. The increase in fast-charging points is making long-distance journeys in electric cars more feasible. With urban areas and motorways in particular being equipped with state-of-the-art charging stations.
Government Initiatives
Government policies are also playing a big role in the adoption of EVs across Ireland. Incentives such as grants for home charging points, reduced toll fees and lower rates of Vehicle Registration Tax (VRT) are making electric cars an economically attractive option for drivers.
Consumer Awareness
Irish consumers are becoming increasingly more savvy and informed. Awareness campaigns and educational initiatives are demystifying electric cars, dispelling myths, and highlighting benefits in comparison to cars that run on traditional fuels.
Looking to buy an electric car? We have some great tips for buying an electric car in Ireland.
This article is provided for general information purposes only and is based on publicly available registration and vehicle data. Vehicle specifications, pricing and incentives may change. Always confirm details with the manufacturer or authorised dealer before making a purchase decision.
Source: Society of the Irish Motor Industry (SIMI)
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