Ireland renews support for electrification of taxis and ride-hailing services
Since 2018, the Irish government has repeatedly launched eSPSV programmes, such as the one last year with a budget of €12.5 million. In total, €65 million has already been allocated to support the purchase of 3,600 vehicles for passenger transport.
This year’s programme, with a budget of €7.5 million, is significantly smaller than last year’s. However, Transport Minister Darragh O’Brien remains hopeful it will provide a vital boost to the sector: “The eSPSV programme continues to make a significant contribution to those who keep our public transport network running every day. With €7 million allocated for 2026, we are continuing one of the most impactful programmes for transitioning to electromobility in the country. This investment ensures that taxi, private hire, and limousine operators can switch to cleaner and more efficient vehicles, benefiting drivers, passengers, and the environment alike.”
In this year’s funding round, the Department of Transport is offering three options:
- Up to €7,500 in grants for the purchase of a new battery-electric vehicle with capacity for up to eight passengers
- Up to €17,500 for the same type of electric vehicle when scrapping an older, environmentally harmful vehicle
- Up to €25,000 for a new battery-electric vehicle that is also wheelchair-accessible
The funding is aimed at operators of taxis, limousines, and hackneys. In Ireland, the term “hackney” refers to professional ride-hailing services, such as those arranged through platforms like Bolt or Uber. As in Germany, drivers in Ireland working for such platforms require a passenger transport licence and must operate professionally.
0 Comments