Electric vehicles (EVs) are quickly gaining popularity, and with good reason. They offer smooth, quiet drives, lower running costs, and the convenience of home charging. Most importantly, they produce zero tailpipe emissions, playing a key role in helping Ireland reach its climate targets.

But even with all those benefits, many people still hesitate to make the switch. Two big questions often come up:

1. Will an EV actually suit my daily driving routine?

2. Will I really save money in the long run?

To help answer these questions, researchers at Trinity College Dublin’s School of Engineering have created a smart new tool designed to remove the guesswork from EV ownership.

The App to Empower Your EV Journey

The TRACT EV app is here to help you figure out whether an electric vehicle fits your lifestyle. Using GPS tracking, it analyses your actual driving habits and gives you personalised feedback. After a few days of normal driving, you’ll get a detailed report showing:

• Whether your regular routes fall within the range of most EVs
• How much you could save with an EV compared to your current fuel costs
• The environmental impact you'd make by switching to electric driving

The innovative TRACT EV app is designed to answer that big question so many people ask: "Will an EV work for me?".

Addressing Range Anxiety

One of the app’s standout features is its ability to address range anxiety, which still deters a lot of potential EV buyers. Many people assume they need a long-range EV, but in truth, their daily driving habits typically require far less than what most electric vehicles offer. By giving you real data based on your own habits, the app helps you make smarter decisions, whether that’s choosing a more budget-friendly EV or confirming that your lifestyle already aligns with what EVs offer.

How it Works

Getting started with the TRACT EV app is simple:

• Download the app, install it, and enter your current vehicle model.
• Turn on location tracking so it can monitor your trips discreetly in the background.
• Over the course of a few days (ideally a week), the app records trip length, speed, and other helpful info, all while respecting your privacy and keeping battery use minimal.

Once the app has gathered enough data, it generates a clear, personalised report outlining the type of EV range that suits your driving habits, how much you could save on fuel, and the potential emissions you could reduce by making the switch.

By using the TRACT EV app for a few weeks, and your insights become even more accurate, offering valuable insights about your weekly travel requirements.

Why the TRACT EV App Can Make a Difference

Ireland still has a long way to go in terms of EV adoption, over 80% of vehicles on the road still run on fossil fuels. Tools like TRACT EV are crucial in making the transition easier and more informed.

But it’s not just for individuals. The app’s anonymised data can also help policymakers understand driving patterns across the country, guiding better decisions on where to build charging infrastructure and how to support EV growth.

With over 120 full electric models to choose from in Ireland, and more arriving all the time, the market is ready. Interest is rising too - at the recent Nevo EV Show in Dublin’s RDS, thousands of EV enthusiasts and curious drivers turned out, with 93% saying they’re likely to buy an EV within the next two years.

Final Thoughts

If you’re still unsure whether an EV fits your lifestyle, the TRACT EV app could be the reassurance you need. Whether you’re a short-distance commuter, a weekend explorer, or somewhere in between, the app gives you the insights to make a confident, informed choice. It’s like test-driving the idea of owning an EV, without leaving your driveway.