EV registrations bounce back in February

DEALER

EV registrations bounce back in February

March 05, 2025

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Figures issued by the Society of the Irish Motor Industry (SIMI) for their official 251 new vehicle registration statistics for February show some intriguing new trends.

New car registrations for February were down 15% (14,012) when compared to February 2024 (16,432) (which had an extra day of trading). Registrations year to date are also down 0.8% (47,483) on the same period last year (47,850).

In February 2,524 new electric cars were registered, which was 36% higher than the 1,856 registrations in February 2024. So far this year, 7,447 new electric cars have been registered representing a 25.1% increase compared to the same period in 2024 when 5,949 electric cars were registered.

Light Commercial Vehicles (LCV) declined by 8% (3,201) compared to February last year (3,486). Year to date LCVs are down 13.5% (9,471). HGVs (Heavy Goods Vehicles) registrations are down 3% (292) in comparison to February 2024 (301). Year to date HGVs are up 0.9% (762).

Imported Used Cars have seen a 13.2% (5,599) rise in February 2025, when compared to February 2024 (4,946). Year to date imports are up 9.1% (11,203) on 2024 (10,271).

In the new car market share by engine type for 2025, Petrol cars continue to lead the new car market at 27.88%, followed by Hybrid (Petrol Electric) at 23.76%, Diesel at 16.65%, Electric at 15.68%, and Plug-in Electric Hybrid at 14.30%.

Brian Cooke, SIMI Director General commented: “Following a strong start in January, new car registrations have seen some retraction in February, with registrations declining by 15%, while year to date registrations are now marginally behind last year. However, going against this trend has been electric vehicles, with an increase in EV sales of 36% in February to 2,524 units, with private consumers, who benefit from the SEAI Grant, contributing two thirds of EV sales this year. The importance of Government supports is key to maintaining this momentum, particularly with a greater range of EVs coming on stream. Commercial vehicle registrations have seen a decline, with LCV sales, which had been down in January, also down by 8% in February, and HGVs registrations down 3%.”

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