GoPlugable, the Irish EV Association (IEVA) and the EV Association of Northern Ireland (EVANI) are seeking input for the all-Island survey designed to build a better understanding of EV charging habits, owners’ preferences, and expectations for growth of EVs – with findings so far revealing some surprising information about attitudes toward electric vehicles.

The State of Electric Mobility in the Island of Ireland is one of the first surveys to cover the entire spectrum of the population’s interest in EVs and includes questions about charging habits, awareness of government grants for EVs, perceptions of public charging infrastructure, and much more.

Of the responses received so far, over a quarter of EV owners are considering making the switch back to petrol or diesel cars, and nearly half of non-EV drivers are not aware that most electric cars now have over 400km of range in a single charge. Of those claiming to have no interest in EVs, nearly 20% of respondents said they would only switch to an EV if they are forced to.

-- Advertisement --

Commenting on results so far, GoPlugable co-Founder Maebh Reynolds said: "Responses received so far to our survey are highlighting the many barriers to access for EV ownership in Ireland, from cost to range anxiety to lack of access to chargers.

"We are conscious that EV ownership draws many varied and equally valid opinions. Whether you are a keen early adopter who already drives an EV, a potential EV driver, or someone who has no interest in EVs, we want to hear from you."

Responding to government targets in the North and South of Ireland to drive EV ownership, GoPlugable has been developed to help reduce barriers to ownership around range anxiety and access to charging points through an online network and charger-sharing ecosystem. GoPlugable will enable EV owners to take advantage of privately-owned chargers in their area, and homeowners with EV chargers to earn passive income by sharing access. This added access to charge points would be particularly valuable for EV owners living in apartment buildings, rented accommodation, or homes without driveways or garages.

"The results of this survey will help us make a significant step towards understanding the state of electric mobility in Ireland from all perspectives, and we believe everyone’s voice matters in shaping the future of EV charging in the country, and we’re excited to hear what people have to say."

The survey is live now and will close on 20th August, with respondents being chosen at random to win spot prizes for giving their feedback.