New 'Electric Vehicle Tolling Scheme' could save owners up to €500, says minister

The Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport, Shane Ross TD, has today confirmed details of a new tolling incentive for electric vehicles (EVs). 

The scheme, which will bring a discount in toll fares to EV drivers, will now come in to effect from July 1. 

The minister said: “I am delighted to launch the new EV tolling scheme, this incentive is integral to the series of governmental support measures aimed at promoting a low-carbon transport future.

“This new scheme will yield additional savings to EV motorists, with the potential for eligible private car owners to accumulate up to €500 in toll savings per annum, and up to €1,000 in savings for goods vehicles.” 

There will be a 50% toll discount for battery electric vehicles (BEVs) and a 25% toll discount for plug-in hybrid vehicles (PHEVs), with higher levels of discount available across certain toll roads during off-peak journeys.

EV motorists can avail of the discount by signing up for an EV tag with an approved Toll Tag Provider. 

Drivers who already hold a toll tag account will be contacted by their current tag provider with details on how to transfer in to the scheme.

“We are starting to see a steady rise in EV numbers,” said Minister Ross, “and this can be attributed to improved technological developments and increased battery ranges alongside continued generous government supports to reduce purchase and running costs.

“There are now more than  5,000 electric vehicles in Ireland, over a 1,000 of which were registered in 2018 alone.” 

Visit www.etoll.ie for further details on the scheme terms and conditions and how to avail of the toll refunds available.