Joe Mallon Motors Ltd is a family-owned and run business that continues to thrive as we continue our transition to sustainable transportation. They have been selling new and used Renault cars and commercials since the 1960's and are currently the main Renault, Dacia dealers for Kildare and Laois along with Peugeot in Naas. Over the years, the company have established a huge base of satisfied customers who come back time and time again to exchange their cars for the latest models. With this in mind we thought it would be a good time to catch up with Managing Director Philip Mallon to see how the business has assisted their customers in adopting electric vehicles.

Philip, thanks for taking the time out to meet with us today. Can you tell us a little more about how long you have been working for Joe Mallon Motors?

Thank you for having me. Joe Mallon Motors has been a family business for over 40 years, and I’ve been part of the team for 18 years. What makes us special is not just that it’s a family business but that our entire team operates like an extended family. My siblings, Ethna and Anthony, are key members of the business, and alongside our incredible team across Kildare and Laois, we work together to provide the best possible experience for our customers. Our success is built on the collective dedication of our team, many of whom have been with us for years, helping to uphold the values of trust, quality, and exceptional service that define Joe Mallon Motors.

Over the years, we’ve seen the automotive landscape evolve drastically from when Joe Mallon Motors was founded in 1980’s. Now, we’re at the forefront of one of the most exciting transitions in the automotive world in decades—moving towards sustainable transportation with electric vehicles (EVs).

How do you feel Ireland’s transition to electric vehicles is going?

Ireland’s transition to electric vehicles is moving in the right direction, with rising adoption driven by advancements in battery technology, government incentives, improved infrastructure, and growing environmental awareness. However, challenges like range anxiety, charging availability, and the cost of switching to EVs remain barriers for many.

As dealers, we play a crucial role in accelerating this shift by educating customers and addressing common concerns. Many aren’t aware of the vast improvements in charging networks, the sufficient range of modern EVs for daily use, or the available grants that make EVs more affordable. For instance, the ZEVI grant offers up to €3,500 for private EVs and €3,800 for commercial EVs, with an additional €300 available for home charger installation.

At Joe Mallon Motors, we’re committed to making this transition as smooth and accessible as possible. By helping people better understand EVs and the positive impact they can have, we’re not just selling cars—we’re supporting a broader shift toward a more sustainable future for Ireland.

What is it like on the forecourt meeting people considering the change to EV and how are you assisting them?

Meeting customers on the forecourt who are considering the change to an electric vehicle is always an exciting and rewarding experience. For many people, making the switch to an EV can feel like a big step, and they often come with a mix of curiosity and uncertainty. Some customers are enthusiastic but unsure about the practicalities of owning an EV, while others are cautious and want to be convinced it’s the right choice for them.

Our role as dealers is not just to sell cars but to act as guides throughout this transition. We start by listening to their concerns and questions—whether it’s about charging infrastructure, range, maintenance costs, or battery lifespan—and provide them with clear, factual information. For example, we walk them through how charging works, explain the advancements in battery technology, and compare the running costs of an EV to a traditional petrol or diesel car.

We also focus on hands-on assistance. Offering test drives is key because it allows customers to experience the quiet, smooth performance of an EV firsthand. Many of them are pleasantly surprised at how intuitive and enjoyable it is to drive an electric car. We also take the time to show them how to use home chargers, apps for locating public charging stations, and explain the cost savings they can expect over the long term.

If a customer decides to make the leap, we ensure a seamless transition with a comprehensive handover process. Our highly trained sales team—constantly updating their expertise through SEAI EV Dealer Training and brand-specific programs—carefully walks customers through the vehicle’s features and provides ongoing support post-sale. This ensures customers leave confident and well-prepared for their EV journey.

The current electric product range from Renault, Dacia and Peugeot is incredibly strong. You must be excited to be selling these award-winning vehicles?

Absolutely! It’s such an exciting time to be working with brands like Renault, Dacia, and Peugeot, especially with the incredible lineup of electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles we have on offer. These vehicles not only showcase cutting-edge technology but also deliver on performance, style, and sustainability. You can really see the brands are putting their full weight behind their EV products now and the improvements are extraordinary.

Peugeot offers a fantastic selection of EVs, starting with the e-2008, a sleek, practical electric compact SUV with an urban range of up to 568km WLTP. Then there’s the stunning e-3008, with a 210hp engine and a range of up to 527km WLTP, also available as a plug-in hybrid. For families, the e-5008, Peugeot’s first fully electric seven-seater SUV, offers up to 502km WLTP, with an extended range version coming in 2025 (668km WLTP).

On the Renault side, the Scenic E-Tech Electric leads the charge, earning accolades like European Car of the Year 2024 and Irish Car of the Year 2025. With a range of up to 610km WLTP and futuristic features like an augmented reality head-up display, it’s redefining expectations for EVs. Renault’s Megane E-Tech Electric, offering up to 480km WLTP, combines sporty design with practicality, while the upcoming Renault 5 E-Tech Electric promises to be a hit, blending iconic design with modern EV performance.

From Dacia, the affordable Dacia Spring Electric offers a WLTP combined range of 225km (305km urban) at an entry price of €16,990*. Compact yet spacious, it’s perfect for those stepping into the EV market.

It’s a privilege to offer such a diverse and award-winning range. These vehicles represent the future of motoring, and it’s thrilling to be part of this transformative movement.

Speaking of awards, you picked up the Irish EV Dealer of the Year 2023. Many congratulations, can you explain what this meant for Joe Mallon Motors?

Thank you so much—it was an incredible honour for us to receive the Irish EV Dealer of the Year 2023. It’s a testament to the hard work and dedication of our entire team here at Joe Mallon Motors. For us, this award reflects our commitment to leading the way in the EV space, not just through the vehicles we sell, but also in how we support and educate our customers.

Winning this award means that we’ve been recognised for going above and beyond to make the transition to electric vehicles as seamless as possible for our customers. From creating a welcoming environment where customers can ask questions without pressure, to offering test drives and demonstrating how EVs fit into their everyday lives, we strive to ensure that every customer feels informed and confident in their decision.

It also validates our efforts to stay at the forefront of the industry by offering a top-tier range of EVs from Renault, Dacia, and Peugeot, backed by exceptional customer service. This recognition motivates us to continue improving and supporting Ireland’s journey toward a greener future, and we are looking forward to competing for these awards each year.

Finally, Philip, can our readers just drop into any of your branches for test drive opportunities or do they need to book an appointment with one of your many trained EV Experts?

At Joe Mallon Motors, we want to make it as easy as possible for our customers to experience the benefits of driving an electric vehicle. You’re more than welcome to drop into either of our branches, in Naas or Portlaoise at your convenience to chat with our team and explore our EV and Hybrid ranges. Our team will guide you through test drives, the features of the car, answer any questions, and even demonstrate things like charging processes or in-car technology. Ultimately, whether you walk in or book ahead, we’re here to help you find the perfect vehicle and make the switch to electric driving as seamless as possible. We look forward to helping people find their dream vehicle in 2025.