The time has come to consider making the switch to an electric vehicle! While it’s an exciting step toward greener, more sustainable driving, it can also feel a little daunting. Before taking the leap, our Nevo experts believe it’s essential to understand a few key factors that will shape your experience as a new EV owner. Powered by AXA, we’ve put together a practical guide for anyone thinking about going electric. From choosing the right model to navigating insurance and charging infrastructure, here’s what we believe you should know.

1. Research the Right EV for Your Needs

Before purchasing your first EV, take the time to assess your lifestyle and driving habits. Are you after a compact city car, a spacious family SUV, or a long-range commuter? Think about the range, battery size, and charging capabilities that best suit your needs.

In Ireland, popular EV models include the Volkswagen ID.4, Hyundai Kona Electric, and Tesla Model 3, each offering different features and ranges. Be sure to consider your average daily mileage and the availability of public chargers near you, especially if you travel long distances regularly.

2. Understand Charging at Home and on the Go

Charging is one of the most convenient aspects of EV ownership, but it does require some planning. If you have off-street parking, installing a home charger can make life a lot easier. The SEAI currently offers grants of up to €350 to help cover installation costs. With a home charger, you can take advantage of night rates and start each day fully charged. For those without home charging, Ireland's public charging network is growing fast. Providers like ESB, Ionity, and EasyGo are rolling out more chargers across the country. It’s worth getting familiar with the types of chargers (slow, fast, and rapid) and understanding the cost per kilowatt-hour. Charging apps can be a big help too, they show nearby chargers, live availability, and pricing info.

3. Factor in Running Costs and Ownership Savings

One of the biggest financial upsides of owning an EV is lower running costs. Electricity is generally much cheaper than petrol or diesel, and with fewer moving parts, EVs tend to have lower maintenance costs as well. Electric vehicles in Ireland also benefit from reduced motor tax, but it’s worth remembering that the upfront cost of an EV can be higher than a traditional vehicle. Luckily, there are several grants available:

• SEAI grant of up to €3,500 for qualifying new EVs
• VRT relief of up to €5,000 depending on the vehicle

Battery replacements are rarely needed, and most come with long-term warranties, but it's still a good idea to be aware of the potential cost over time.

4. Test Drive and Ask Questions

Before making the leap, get behind the wheel. EVs drive differently, they’re quiet, responsive, and feature regenerative braking, which can take some getting used to. A test drive will help you understand how the car performs in real-world conditions. It’s also your chance to ask important questions about battery life, warranty coverage, charging time, and software updates. Don’t be shy, the more you ask, the better prepared you’ll be.

5. Explore Car insurance options

Before taking out car insurance, it’s worth checking out what kind of EV coverage is available under each type of policy. With AXA, for example, electric drivers get peace of mind with a range of benefits:

• Fire and theft cover for your battery (Both Comprehensive and Third Party, Fire & Theft)
• Replacement car cover (Both Comprehensive and Third Party, Fire & Theft)
• Accidental damage to your battery (Comprehensive only)
• Up to €650 cover for accidental damage to your wall charger (Comprehensive only)

You can find out more on the AXA website.

Nevo Final Thoughts

Buying your first EV is a big step, but with the right information and support, it can be an incredibly rewarding one. By doing your research, understanding your charging options, factoring in running costs, and choosing comprehensive insurance like the EV policies offered by AXA, you’ll be well on your way to a smooth and confident switch to electric.