The Society of the Irish Motor Industry monthly sales statistics are clearly showing that electric vehicles are no longer just a niche choice for tech enthusiasts! Whether you’re watching every euro, juggling school runs, or eyeing something a bit special for the driveway, there’s now an EV to match almost every budget and lifestyle. Here in Nevo, we believe the key is understanding what you really need from a car, and then using smart tools and proper test drives to make the right call first time. Let's delve a little deeper.

Entry-Level EVs: Under €30k

If you thought EVs were all €50k-plus, this is the first myth to park! Entry-level models under €30,000 are increasingly common, especially smaller hatchbacks and compact crossovers. They’re ideal if most of your driving is city or short commutes or you have access to home or workplace charging. If you want to cut fuel and maintenance costs without stretching your monthly budget these EVs usually offer ranges that comfortably cover daily driving. You can easily take on school runs, gym, work, shops and back with the occasional longer spin at the weekend as long as you plan a charge stop.But why they make sense?

• Low running costs: Electricity is typically cheaper than petrol or diesel per kilometre, and EVs have fewer moving parts, so servicing can be gentler on the wallet.

• Ideal second car: For many households, a smaller EV becomes the perfect second car, taking over daily duties while a larger vehicle handles long trips (at least until the whole household goes electric).

• Grants and incentives: Depending on current schemes, you may be able to stack EV grants, VRT reliefs or lower motor tax to get under that €30k line more easily.

If you’re budget-focused but want to future-proof your next car, this segment is the sweet spot.

Mid-Range EVs: Practical Family All-Rounders

Step up into the €30k–€55k bracket and you enter the world of family-friendly EV crossovers, estates and SUVs with enough space, range and comfort for real-life chaos! With kids, buggies, sports gear, IKEA runs and motorway trips all a part of daily life there are a number of mid range EVs that offer not just proper rear-seat space and a big boot but faster charging better infotainment and advanced safety tech. What sets mid-range family EVs apart is their balance so what should you expect?

• Range you can relax with: Many models in this bracket offer 350 - 500km WLTP, which translates to stress-free motorway cruising with just the occasional fast-charge stop.

• Faster charging: Higher-powered DC charging means topping up during a coffee break rather than a half-day event.

• Comfort & tech: Better sound insulation, improved seats, bigger screens and smarter driver-assistance systems make long journeys easier and safer.

For most households our Nevo experts believe this is the “one car to do it all” category!

Luxury EVs Worth the Splurge

At the higher end of the market, luxury EVs deliver the kind of experience that makes going electric feel like a genuine upgrade, not a compromise. Why do, or would people stretch the budget for them?

• Performance: Instant torque and sports-car acceleration, even in big SUVs surprise with that wave of torque!

• Refinement: Whisper-quiet cabins, premium materials, massaging seats, panoramic roofs, it’s a different world from traditional cars.

• Tech showpieces: Huge displays, augmented-reality navigation, advanced driver assistance in some cases using AI and over-the-air updates that keep the car feeling fresh.

This tier is for drivers who spend a lot of time on the road, want their car to feel special every single day, and are willing to pay for that mix of comfort, performance and brand experience.

Why Test Drives Are Essential

On paper, lots of EVs can look similar: similar range, similar price, similar body style. But the way they feel can be wildly different. This is why we came up with the Nevo Driving Experience events to sit alongside our main RDS Show. Taken place at various locations around the country, these test drive opportunities help you answer five questions no spec sheet can!

1. Is the driving position comfortable for your height?

2. Do you like the steering feel and ride comfort on real roads, not just in theory?

3. Is the infotainment system intuitive or infuriating?

4. How easy is it to see out, park, and manage tight streets or country roads?

5. Can the kids, car seats, prams and dogs all fit without a wrestling match?

The Nevo Driving Experience events allow you to test more than one EV back-to-back. That’s when differences in noise, comfort and usability become obvious. Keep an eye on www.nevo.ie for the next event close to you.

In summary we believe there’s now an EV for almost every budget, from smart city runarounds under €30k to indulgent luxury models that redefine what a car can be. By attending our events and using the Nevo comparison tool, you should easily be able to get the facts straight. The right EV shouldn’t just make sense on paper, it should feel right every time you get behind the wheel!