The Irish Government has re-opened the eSPSV Grant Scheme, which gives taxi drivers grants for switching to electric vehicles. The scheme was previously so popular that the Government actually ran out of cash for it, so the relaunch will be welcome news for those looking to switch to battery power.
Up to €25,000 in grants
So, if you're switching to electric power from diesel or petrol, you can avail of up to €10,000 in grants, with an additional €2,500 if you're switching to a wheelchair-accessible model.
That's for smaller vehicles. For those scrapping an older, more polluting or high-mileage vehicle, the grants effectively double, with up to €20,000 on offer or €25,000 for a wheelchair-accessible model.
VRT rebate
Those making the switch can also get a €5,000 VRT rebate, the Domestic Charger Scheme grant of up to €600, and annual toll refunds of up to €1,000.
The Government says that the scheme has already supported the purchase of 1,400 electric taxis and public service vehicles and that it's going to continue to support the roll-out of electric taxis, including dedicated taxi fast-chargers at locations such as train stations.
Win-win situation
Minister for Transport Eamonn Ryan said: "The eSPSV grant provides a win-win situation for both taxi drivers and passengers, not only offering cost savings for the drivers, but also providing an opportunity for passengers to experience electric vehicle technology first-hand. This grant programme is one of the many steps the government is taking to accelerate the transition towards a greener and more sustainable transport system.
"Vehicles grants such as this go hand in hand with the work being done to expand and enhance our current EV charging infrastructure, as set out in the EV Charging Infrastructure Strategy earlier this year. Together, this work continues to boost the uptake of EVs across the country, ultimately contributing towards reducing transport emissions and meeting our national emission targets."
To get the maximum available grant, you have to meet a few criteria, such as you must be an existing SPSV (Small Public Service Vehicle) taxi driver; the vehicle must be registered as an SPSV for the previous three years, and the vehicle must be within three years of its maximum permissible age or have a mileage of 300,000km or greater (as documented on an NCT certificate).
Eligible persons can find further information on the grant and how to apply on the National Transport website.