Ireland pledges support for electric car

The Irish Government has pledged to support the electric car industry after signing a deal with vehicle manufactures and power firms.


The Government, Electric Supply Board (ESB) Mitsubishi Motors, MC (Automobile) Europe and MMC Commercials have all signed a memorandum of understanding to promote the electric car industry.

The announcement today (May 24) comes as ESB announces its first ‘ecar’ trial in Ireland with Trinity College Dublin’s School of Engineering.

Minister for communications, energy and natural resources, Eamon Ryan, said: “Today’s memorandum with Mitsubishi and ESB’s trial with Trinity College is another important milestone in the electrification of the Irish motoring fleet.

“Ireland is leading the way and with such innovation from ESB, and our new partnership with Mitsubishi, our international position is further strengthened.”

ESB’s chief executive, Padraig McManus, said: “Ireland is at the forefront of adopting electric vehicles, and ESB is pressing ahead with its charging points programme.

“As a major force in the global market, Mitsubishi Motors’ endorsement of Ireland as an environment for EVs is extremely encouraging.

“The pilot project will provide ESB with a more in-depth knowledge of how the technology and its integration into the electricity network will work.”

As part of the trial, the all-electric, zero emission Mitsubishi i-MiEVs will be used throughout Ireland to support the planning and implementation of the ESB nationwide charging infrastructure.

Luke Walsh

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