Longford ranks as one of Ireland’s least EV-friendly counties, says study

As electric vehicle adoption accelerates across Ireland, bolstered by the Government’s recent decision in Budget 2026 to extend the €5,000 VRT relief for EVs, a new study from Chill Insurance highlights a major gap: not all counties are equally equipped to support the EV transition.

Longford comes in just above Leitrim, ranking 25th overall out of 26. The county has a modest 92 electric vehicles registered, supported by only 6 public EV chargers and 3 dealerships. While slightly better equipped than Leitrim, Longford still faces significant challenges in terms of access to charging and vehicle purchase options. For residents considering the switch to electric, this lack of infrastructure may be a major barrier, particularly for those without access to home charging solutions.

Read more: Over €300,000 funding available to Longford to build low carbon communities

Ian O’Reilly, Head of Personal Line Sales at Chill Insurance advises motorists to take time adjusting to the unique features of EVs:

“Making the switch from a petrol or diesel car to an electric vehicle can be exciting, but it also comes with a learning curve. One of the most important things to remember is how differently EVs deliver power. EVs can accelerate much faster than many drivers are used to, so drivers should take extra care when adjusting to how responsive the vehicle feels.

“Range awareness is another key consideration. While most modern EVs have more than enough capacity for daily use, it’s important to plan longer journeys around charging points and build the habit of checking your battery level, just as you would your fuel gauge.

“Charging safely is equally important. Always use approved home charging equipment installed by a registered electrician, and avoid relying on extension leads, which can be unsafe. Public chargers should also be used with caution. Make sure cables are properly connected, never force a plug, and be mindful of your surroundings when charging in less busy areas.

Read more: ‘Big problems on the way if drains are not cleared’ - Longford MEP Mullooly

“Finally, it’s worth remembering that EVs are much quieter than traditional vehicles, which can make them less noticeable to pedestrians. Staying alert in built-up areas, using pedestrian warning sounds if fitted, and driving with extra awareness can all help keep you and others safe,” O’Reilly said.