Q. What is the main difference between a Plug in Hybrid (PHEV) and a Self Charging Hybrid?
A. A Self charging hybrid cannot be plugged into a wall socket and charged at home / work prior to your journey. By charging a PHEV before your journey, it is possible to complete over 50km in fully electric power alone thus achieving emission free driving.
Q. Is a PHEV eligible for Government grants?
A. Yes, most PHEVs will qualify for the same grants as an Electric (EV) car. This may change however subject to SEAI grants and also the value of the car being purchased if in excess of €50,000 may affect the overall grant available.
Q. Does an EV or PHEV include a wall charger for my Home?
A. No, you simply arrange to have it installed at your home by a registered installer. Some manufacturers offer incentives for the wall chargers and there is also a €600 grant available from the SEAI to go towards the installation cost.
Q. What is the typical level of depreciation on an EV compared to a petrol or diesel car?
A. From our experience in the used car market, the level of demand for Hybrids, Plug in Hybrids and EVs is generally quite strong and comparable to regular cars. It is expected that this will increase further in years to come.
Q. How long does it take to charge at home?
A. Most home chargers will take approximately 8 hours to fully charge an EV and 3 hours to charge a PHEV.
Q. What are EVs like to drive?
A. Typically most customers find the EV platform very user friendly and simple to drive, the motors are powerful and deliver plenty of power via an Automatic Gearbox.
Q. How long will the SEAI grants be available?
A. It is difficult to know as they may change depending on Government policy, it is expected however that they may be reduced as the volume of Electric Vehicles on the road increases.
Q. Should I buy diesel or PHEV if I drive more than 100km per day?
A. It really depends on your access to charging points and driving style, if you drive 100km entirely on motorways each day you will get less value from the PHEV as someone who does an urban commute. If you can charge at home and the workplace or on the public charging network then the benefits of PHEV increase further.
Q. How much maintenance is required on an EV or PHEV?
A. Servicing requirements vary depending on brand and vehicle type, typically the costs involved are comparable or less than a regular vehicle.
Q. What is the warranty on the battery?
A. Warranties can vary between different brands but Kia for example have a 7 year / 150,000km warranty on their EV battery that covers you if battery degradation drops below 70% of the original capacity.
