Green ‘flash’ registration plates for EVs rolling out next month

Drivers of new and existing EVs can opt for the new green registration plate

A new green ‘flash’ on registration plates will soon make it easier to spot vehicles that emit no CO2 emissions on Irish roads, according to a Dept of Transport statement issued today.

From July, the green ‘flash’ plates will be available for all eligible new and existing electric vehicles. It will look the same as current Irish registration plates, and with an added green vertical stripe.

Minister for Transport, Darragh O’Brien, said the green ‘flash’ is designed to give visibility to vehicles that emit no CO2 emissions, supporting the shift to cleaner, greener transport across the country.

“This initiative helps make EVs more visible, giving people and businesses a way to show their commitment to a cleaner transport future. It’s a small but effective step and a way for us to track progress on the ground and to normalise the idea of zero emission driving.

“The green flash is another part of our transition to electric. This year, €100 million will be allocated to support EV adoption and infrastructure, with continued government supports and incentives to make EVs more accessible.”

The green ‘flash’ plate is available for all vehicles that produce zero emissions at the tailpipe, including fully battery EVs (BEVs) and, in future, hydrogen fuel cell vehicles. The new plate can be fitted to cars, vans, motorbikes, trucks and buses that emit no CO2 emissions.

If you’re buying a new electric vehicle, the dealership can provide the green plate. Existing EV owners can opt to retrofit existing plates with the green ‘flash’ through registration plate suppliers.

Ireland joins countries like Germany, Norway and the UK in introducing distinct plates for EVs.

The Dept of Transport statement said ‘green ‘flash’ registration plates will allow consumers to demonstrate their choice of a green product. Research shows that this can have a positive influence on willingness of others to invest in more sustainable products.

The Dept of Finance and the Revenue Commissioners have worked with Zero Emission Vehicles Ireland (ZEVI)/ Dept of Transport on the introduction of the new plates.

The Society of the Irish Motor Industry (SIMI) has also collaborated and its director general, Brian Cooke, said: “The new EV green ‘flash’ on registration plates debuts at the start of the 252 sales period, and the industry embraces this increased promotion of battery EVs and their enhanced visibility.

“With the positive increase in battery EV sales since the start of the year, combined with July being the second highest month for new car sales, we anticipate a swift appearance of EVs carrying the green ‘flash’ plates on our roads.”

The green ‘flash’ registration plates are optional and apply to all fully EVs, including cars, vans, motorbikes and trucks.