Changes to the Benefit-in-Kind (BIK) tax for company cars came into effect in Ireland from January 1, 2026, and it has brought about noticeable differences for those affected.

There’s a new, dedicated band for pure zero-emission electric vehicles (EVs), while rates increase for those doing fewer kilometres in more polluting combustion-powered cars.

What’s the new BIK band?

It’s called A1 and it’s purely for EVs, as only cars with a 0g/km CO2 emissions rating can qualify for this. Previously, EVs were bundled in with low-emissions plug-in hybrids (PHEVs), but those cars now tend to sit on their own in Band A (more than 0g/km up to and including 59g/km).

After that, there’s Band B (60-99g/km), Band C (100-139g/km), Band D (140-179g/km) and then Band E (more than 179g/km).

What has happened to the mileage rates?

The 2026 BIK rules still favour those who do more kilometres per year for work, as they gain lower tax rates. The main change is that the lower limit of the highest mileage band has decreased, from 50,001km per annum previously to 48,001km annually now.

For drivers doing up to 26,000km a year for work, the BIK rates for the CO2 bandings are as follows: 15% for A1; 22.5% for A; 26.25% for B; 30% for C; 33.75% for D; and the highest rate of 37.5% for E.

The next mileage level, of 26,001-39,000km, results in: 12% for A1; 18% for A; 21% for B; 24% for C; 27% for D; and 30% for E.

Stepping up to 39,001-48,000km elicits: 9% for A1; 13.5% for A; 15.75% for B; 18% for C; 20.25% for D; and 22.5% for E.

And finally, anyone doing 48,001km or more for work will be taxed: 6% for A1; 9% for A; 10.5% for B; 12% for C; 13.5% for D; and 15% for E.

Does this apply for vans as much as cars?

No, vans still have a BIK rate of 8% across the board.

Has anything else changed that could alter my tax requirements?

The original market value (OMV) figures which you use to calculate your tax outlay in the first place feature some reductions.

The OMV is described as the price a vehicle could reasonably be expected to sell for if it were put on the market before its first registration.

There is a €10,000 reduction to the OMV (including all cars and vans) in Bands A1-D, but this will only remain in place until December 31, 2026. It will then continue on a tapering basis until 2028, with a €5,000 OMV reduction in 2027 and a €2,500 reduction in 2028. This OMV figure does not apply to any vehicles in Band E.

An additional OMV reduction applies to any vehicles in the newly created Band 1, i.e., EVs. This is set at €20,000 in 2026 and €10,000 in 2027. As a result, any employee using an EV for work in 2026 will benefit from an overall €30,000 OMV reduction in 2026, made up of the €20,000 vehicle-specific figure and also the universal reduction of €10,000 for all vehicles except those in Band E.

Thus, if your EV has an OMV of €60,000, the cash equivalent for the vehicle will be €30,000 in 2026. If you then drive 38,000km for work, you would qualify for 12% BIK and so would be subject to BIK notional pay of €3,600 (€30,000 x 12%).

The post Company Car Tax Guide 2026 appeared first on Cartell Car Check.

As soon as we’re past December 21, the nights start drawing out again and, once Christmas and New Year’s Eve are out of the way, we can start looking forward to shorter nights and (hopefully) warmer weather.

However, we’re not out of the winter woods just yet, with cold snaps always possible through January and February. And as low temperatures on the thermometer tend to be a killer of an electric vehicle’s (EV) range, it can be a frustrating time for owners as they try to maximise every last kilometre of capability.

Here, then, are some of our top tips to help you go further in your EV when the winter weather bites hard.

Pre-condition it

Many EVs have a neat feature, usually controlled by a companion app on a smartphone, through which you can warm the cabin of the car up before you even step foot in it. Ideally, start this process when the vehicle is still hooked up to the mains via means of a domestic wallbox and you should get into a toasty-warm passenger compartment with the EV still showing 100 per cent battery charge. This isn’t just convenience for convenience’s sake, though, because a big drain on the overall range will come about if you don’t pre-heat the car first and then use its onboard climate control to warm the cabin through. This places more drain on the EV’s electrical systems and will sap kilometres from the distance-to-charge figure on the trip computer. If you have it, and you have a home wallbox too, then pre-conditioning is your biggest range friend.

Deploy a single pedal

Almost all EVs have one-pedal driving functionality. This means that you can set their regenerative braking (a form of deceleration in which the electric motor switches from working as a propulsion unit into a generator, with the inherent resistance of that system working to slow the car down quickly, rather than the physical brakes grabbing the wheel hubs instead) to a strong enough level that, in town traffic, you shouldn’t have to use the brake pedal at all. You can then control the car’s speed, either increasing or decreasing it, simply using the accelerator. Well-timed lifts of the right-hand pedal should see the EV coming to a stop as required. The bonus is that regenerative braking puts some of the energy created from this form of deceleration back into the car’s battery.

Engage Eco

Another common system in EVs is a selection of drive modes, one of which will likely be called Eco (or something similar, such as Range or Green). It’s a set-up where the climate control’s power is decreased, while the accelerator response also becomes slower – and, in some instances, engaging Eco will also automatically increase the level of regen braking and may even decrease the electric motor’s power output too. All of these characteristics are designed to make the battery charge last longer, so unless you’re on a motorway and you need the full responsiveness of your EV, Eco mode is the one to go for in winter weather.

Pump it up and junk the junk

General fuel-economy tips that apply to combustion-engined cars can be applied to EVs as well. So make sure that all the tyre pressures on your electric machine are at the optimum level, as under-inflated tyres can increase rolling drag and thus increase the motor’s drain on the battery pack. Similarly, needless extra weight in the car (like heavy items in the boot which you don’t need to be transporting around 24/7) and other things like empty roof racks causing extra air drag, will further hurt your EV’s range. Properly pumped tyres and a lighter running mass will help an electric car maximise its range in the cold.

Use heated seats and steering wheel

This one is a known trick in EV circles, but it’s not for everyone – and it’s dependent on how high-spec your car is in the first place. But, put simply, even though they use electrical heating elements to function, both heated seats and a heated steering wheel are more efficient to use than the full climate control in the EV. Therefore, if you haven’t pre-conditioned your car before your journey and the interior is cold, it’s better to warm yourself up through the seats and wheel if you want the most range you can get. In essence, this makes sense, because the climate is ‘indiscriminate’ and warms the air in the whole interior, whereas heated seats and steering wheels can be ‘localised’ to the occupants that need them. However, the flipside of this is that while the backs of your thighs, your buttocks and your hands are all warm, the front of your body and legs, and your face, will be in cooler air – hence why this system won’t feel comfortable for everyone.

Take it easy – and prepare

By this one, we don’t just mean pre-conditioning the car. You might know where you’re going on your route but have a look at the state of the traffic on your preferred roads and check it’s not chaos. To be fair, EVs actually like stop-start traffic because there are more regenerative braking cycles and less high-power, high-speed draining periods for the battery, but if you get caught up in congestion and then try to make the time up towards the end of your trip, you’ll use more power and that kills range. While it might seem daft setting the navigation for a journey you’ve done thousands of times, lots of EVs have a subroutine in their mapping which will assess the current traffic conditions and selected the most eco-friendly route, so use that if you can.

And even if you do miss the snarl-ups, then we come back to the ‘take it easy’ part of our tip. As we said above, the more you accelerate and the faster you go in an EV, the more you chip away at your overall range. EVs much prefer steady-state driving in the 50-80km/h zone, rather than battering along at 100km/h-plus, so if you drive smoothly, with lots of anticipation and gentle applications of the accelerator, you’ll go further in cold weather on a single charge than you would do if you’re hammering about the place with doses of full power followed by heavy braking.

Keep your battery topped up, preferably at home

You have to balance the fact that regular charging sessions could shorten a lithium-ion battery’s longevity, with the fact that allowing the car to dip to low battery levels could lead to thermal-management issues as well, and both of these things impact driving range. Therefore, our advice would be to avoid regular DC ‘rapid’ top-ups but instead make sure you’re regularly linking the car to a 7.4kW AC domestic wallbox. That way, you start each day with 100 per cent battery rather than 80 per cent (a quirk of DC top-ups is that EVs slow down their rate of replenishment at 80 per cent, so it’s not worth sticking around on charging units for the last 20 per cent) – which obviously gives you more range – while majoring on AC charging cycles will extend the car’s battery lifespan and therefore keep its maximum range figure higher, for longer. And, actually, that counts just as much in warm weather as it does in the depths of winter.

The post How to get the best performance from your EV in cold weather appeared first on Cartell Car Check.

Electric vehicles are becoming an increasingly common choice for Irish motorists, and new data from Cartell.ie shows that this shift is now being driven strongly by the used electric car market.

In 2025, a total of 15,425 used electric vehicles were sold in Ireland, up from 11,754 in 2024. This represents a year-on-year increase of just over 31%, confirming that used EVs are moving rapidly into the mainstream.

For many buyers, purchasing a used electric car in Ireland offers a more affordable way to switch to electric driving while still benefiting from improving battery technology and charging infrastructure.

Top 10 Used Electric Cars in Ireland (2025)

Analysis by Cartell.ie shows that demand for used EVs is concentrated around a relatively small number of established models, with Irish buyers favouring practicality, space, and familiar brands.

The Volkswagen ID.4 was the best-selling used electric car in Ireland in 2025, with 1,545 sales. Its popularity highlights Ireland’s continued preference for family-friendly electric SUVs.

Close behind was the Nissan LEAF, recording 1,477 used sales. As one of Ireland’s earliest mass-market electric cars, the LEAF continues to benefit from strong brand recognition and availability on the second-hand market.

The Tesla Model 3 ranked third, followed by the Volkswagen ID.3 and Hyundai Kona Electric, completing the top five. These newer-generation EVs offer improved real-world range, faster charging, and more modern technology compared to earlier electric vehicles.

Further down the list, models such as the Kia EV6, Kia Niro Electric, Hyundai Ioniq 5, Skoda Enyaq, and Renault Zoe reinforce a key trend in the Irish market: SUVs and crossovers dominate used EV demand. In fact, seven of the top ten used electric cars sold in Ireland in 2025 fall into this category.

Why Used EV Sales Are Growing in Ireland

The jump from 11,754 used EV sales in 2024 to 15,425 in 2025 reflects several key factors:

• Greater availability of electric vehicles entering the used market
• Lower purchase prices compared to new EVs
• Increased consumer confidence in EV range and reliability
• Improving public charging infrastructure nationwide

As electric vehicles cycle out of company fleets, PCP agreements, and early private ownership, choice on the used EV market continues to expand.

What to Check Before Buying a Used Electric Car

While buying a used EV offers clear benefits, there are additional factors buyers should consider compared to petrol or diesel cars. These include:

• Battery condition and degradation
• Mileage patterns
• Previous ownership history
• Import status and registration details

Carrying out a vehicle history check can help buyers understand exactly what they are purchasing and avoid unexpected issues when buying a used electric car in Ireland.

The post Used Electric Car Sales in Ireland Rise 31% in 2025 as EV Market Grows appeared first on Cartell Car Check.

Electric vehicles are often discussed in terms of claimed range and theoretical efficiency. But for anyone seriously considering the switch, the real question is simpler: what does it cost in everyday Irish driving?

This video looks at several months of real-world EV ownership using a 2025 Tesla Model 3 Standard Range, driven in typical Irish conditions.

Why We Made This Video

At Cartell, we work with real vehicle data every day. For this video, we applied the same principle to EV ownership.

Instead of relying on WLTP figures alone, the focus is on:

• Actual energy consumption
• Real charging habits
• Real costs, both public and at home

The aim is to answer a question many Irish drivers are asking: are EVs still cheaper to run?

The Car and the Official Figures

Before diving into real-world results, we outline the manufacturer’s claims for the Tesla Model 3 Standard Range:

• WLTP range of 520km
• Claimed efficiency of 13.8 kWh per 100km
• Fast charging capability of around 170kW at Tesla Superchargers

These numbers provide a useful benchmark, but they’re only part of the story.

What Real Driving Looks Like

After several months of ownership, mostly during colder and wetter weather, real-world efficiency averages around 15.85 kWh per 100km.

That’s slightly higher than the official figure, but still delivers excellent day-to-day usability. Range has not been an issue, whether for commuting or longer road trips.

The video also covers an important mindset shift for drivers moving from petrol or diesel: charging little and often, rather than filling to 100% every time.

Fast Charging: How It Works in Practice

One of the key points shown in the video is how fast charging actually behaves on longer journeys.

When stopping at Tesla Superchargers:

• Peak speeds of 180+ kW are regularly achieved
• Charging remains strong up to around 50–55%
• Short stops of around 15 minutes are often enough

This makes longer trips far more manageable than many first-time EV buyers expect.

The Numbers That Matter: Charging Costs

This is where the difference between theory and reality becomes very clear.

Public charging:

• Approximately €0.60 per kWh
• Roughly €36 for a full charge
• Around 8.8 cent per kilometre

Home charging (night rate):

• Approximately 14.1 cent per kWh
• Around €8.46 for a full charge
• Roughly 2.1–2.2 cent per kilometre

The video clearly shows how home charging dramatically reduces running costs.

Lifetime Costs So Far

Based on total energy usage of 1,043 kWh:

• Charging exclusively on public fast chargers would have cost over €600
• Charging primarily at home has cost around €150

That difference alone explains why home charging plays such a critical role in EV affordability.

So, Are EVs Cheaper to Run in Ireland?

As the video concludes, the answer is straightforward.

If you can install a home charger and use off-peak electricity, an EV can be significantly cheaper to run than both petrol and diesel vehicles, and cheaper than relying on public charging alone.

Thinking About Buying an EV?

If you’re considering an electric car, it’s also worth remembering that the used EV market in Ireland is growing quickly.

Before buying any used vehicle, always run a Cartell history check to confirm:

• No outstanding finance
• No previous serious damage
• A safe and roadworthy vehicle

The post Owning an Electric Car in Ireland: What’s the Real Cost? appeared first on Cartell Car Check.

1. How much mileage is too much?

How long’s a piece of string? OK, sorry for the glib answer but the unfortunate fact is that there is no direct, simple answer to this. There are a couple of rules of thumb, though. The average annual mileage in Ireland, according to the Central Statistics Office (CSO) is a fraction under 16,000km. So, if the car you’re looking at has covered more kilometres than that each year it’s been in use, then it technically has above-average mileage.

Of course, if the average is 16,000km then it stands to mathematical reason that there must be many people covering much more than that each year, and many covering much less, so this really is only a rule of thumb. Generally speaking, we’d say that 25,000km per year would be considered high mileage for a car, but that doesn’t mean it’s not a good buy.

2. History is critical

You should buy on condition and history, not on mileage. What’s just as important to check, though, is the car’s service history. In general, a car should be serviced every year, or at roughly 16,000km intervals, so if you’re looking at a car that’s four years old, it should have four stamps in its service book (service records are often digital these days), and preferably four invoices for those services, with details of what work was carried out each time. If a car has a full and complete service history, then the mileage becomes far less significant, because the car has been properly cared for.

3. Should I insist on a main dealer service history?

It’s not a bad idea, but while seeing a whole bunch of main dealer service stamps on a car’s history is a good thing, it’s not the be-all and end-all. If a car, later in its life, has been looked after by a reputable independent garage, especially one that might be a specialist in that particular make of car, then you needn’t worry too much about the fact that they’re not a main dealer — the stamps in the books and the evidence of the work carried out are the important bits.

4. How long do car components last?

In general, most major components will be expected to last for at least 200,000km before needing replacement (aside from ‘consumables’ such as tyres, brake pads and discs, clutches, wiper blades etc). Some car makers reckon that its major components should, with proper servicing and maintenance, last for as much as 350,000km or more.

5. Does it matter where and how the car has been driven?

Yes, it absolutely does. Remember the old Arthur Daley line about ‘one little old lady owner, only drove it to church on Sundays’? That’s the car you want to avoid. The car you want to buy is the car with twice the mileage. Why? Because short, low-temperature journeys are the worst thing possible for a car’s engine, as the oil never gets a proper chance to warm up and work its way around to all parts. Because of that, the wear and tear on an engine is far worse on those short journeys than on a longer run, where the oil has had a chance to come up to temperature and circulate properly. If a car has incredibly low mileage for its age, then that’s actually a car you should possibly strike off your shopping list, as, except in rare cases, it might actually be hiding more wear and tear than a higher mileage model.

There’s another benefit to higher mileage — if the car has been well-kept and properly looked after, then a high mileage car will have had many of its significant wear and tear parts replaced, so they’ll be in newer condition when you start using them. Again, check the service records to see if this is the case.

6. Check the NCT history

Any used car that you’re looking at buying should come with a folder full of service invoices, and — for older cars — NCT reports. Check the NCT reports carefully, as they will give you an idea of what has gone wrong with the car over the years. NCT reports with lots of failures and re-tests are a red flag, as they indicate that the car hasn’t been properly cared for, or worse, the owner has been treating the NCT as their shopping list of the things that have to be fixed for legality, rather than keeping the car properly serviced in the first place.

7. What about the overall condition?

This is also a critical check. Have a really good poke around the interior of any high-miler and check to see what kind of state it’s in. Wear and tear is normal, of course, but if you’re looking at a car with rips in the seats, dirt in the carpets, switches and steering wheel worn smooth and shiny from use, or a knackered and cracked spare wheel in the boot, then it all indicates someone who hasn’t cared properly for the car. Equally, a heavily worn cabin can be an indication that a car has actually covered more kilometres than is claimed, and it may have been ‘clocked.’

8. Is there a green flag I should look for?

Yes, and it’s oil changes. It sounds daft, but if you come across a car with lots of miles which also comes with receipts for lots of oil changes, then you’re probably onto something good. There are recommended intervals from car manufacturers for oil changes, but these are calculated to be at the point where you really need them. If a car has had its oil changed more regularly than that, say once a year at least, then that’s the sign of a fastidious owner and a car that’s potentially in very good mechanical health. It’s not a cure-all, but regular oil changes are the witchcraft of keeping a car’s engine (and gearbox) at the peak of health.

9. Should I pay less for a high-mileage car?

Yes. In spite of everything we’ve pointed out above, the second-hand car market always regards higher mileage cars as being worth less than an equivalent car with lower miles. And that’s why they’re a bargain, as you can argue yourself a decent discount, based on the mileage, and as long as the car’s history and condition are giving you all the good signs, you’re onto a winner.

The post High-mileage cars: should you buy one? appeared first on Cartell Car Check.

Will I still have to pay VRT?

Yes – Vehicle Registration Tax (VRT) applies whether you’re importing from GB or NI. It’s worked out as a percentage of the car’s Open Market Selling Price (OMSP) which is NOT the price you’ve actually paid for the car, but instead the price that the Revenue Commissioners (the department of the Irish government that manages the VRT system) thinks the car would have been worth had you bought it in Ireland.

VRT rates range from seven per cent of the OMSP – for cars with CO2 emissions between 0g/km and 50g/km – up to 41 per cent for cars with CO2 emissions above 190g/km. There’s also a NOx levy to pay, which is calculated on a car’s emissions of nitrogen oxides, which is something that largely only affects older diesel-engined cars to any great extent.

What about VAT?

This is where you’ll find both opportunity and complexity. In theory, as far as Revenue and the importing of used cars is concerned, Northern Ireland still operates under EU regulations, so you shouldn’t have to pay any VAT as long as the car is more than six months old, and has more than 6,000km on the clock (or the mileage equivalent, which is 3,720 miles).

However, there’s a significant wrinkle, and it’s one designed specifically to prevent car dealers in Northern Ireland importing cars to order for customers in the Republic from the rest of the UK. According to Revenue, in order to avoid needing to pay VAT: “Proof will be required that the vehicle has been in private ownership for a reasonable period of time.”

Now, we’ve quizzed Revenue on this point in the past, but there’s still no specific length of time which qualifies for ‘a reasonable period’. Is it two weeks? Two months? Two years? We don’t know and Revenue won’t say, allowing for considerable wiggle room for each car to be assessed on a case-by-case basis.

Proof will be needed that the car has been registered to a private owner in Northern Ireland, and that the car has a history of MOT tests in NI.

What if I want to buy a car that a dealer has just brought in from GB?

This is potentially possible – after all, how can Revenue prove that a dealer specifically brought in a car just for you, rather than you simply went browsing and found the car you want?

For this to work, the car you’re buying must have been brought into Northern Ireland from the rest of the UK under the Windsor Framework – that’s the post-Brexit agreement thrashed out between the UK, Ireland and the EU. Basically, it means that the dealer must have made a customs declaration that the car was moving to NI. There is a customs charge that has to be paid – ten per cent of the value – by the dealer in NI if the car was not originally built in the UK, which limits your options somewhat and means that the car might be a little more expensive, but then again such popular models as the Toyota Corolla and the Nissan Qashqai are actually UK-made, so it’s not the end of the world.

What about customs duty for me?

The same regulations apply to customs duty as for VAT – if the car has already been registered and in use in Northern Ireland ‘for a reasonable time’ then no customs duty applies. If it’s newly arrived in NI, then it has to conform to the Windsor Framework.

So how much can I save by buying in Northern Ireland?

If the car you buy from NI qualifies either under the previous ownership rule, or the Windsor Framework rules, then you won’t have to pay customs duty nor VAT. Customs duty is usually charged at ten per cent of the vehicle’s price, plus shipping costs. VAT on entry into Ireland is charged at 23 per cent of the vehicle’s price, plus shipping and customs charges. So there are potentially savings to be made, but make sure you have all your paperwork in order and you do all the calculations before making any purchase.

The post Importing a car from Northern Ireland appeared first on Cartell Car Check.

All cars, including SUVs, are in Category A for VRT upon importing into the State. From the date of your car’s arrival here (that’s the day it either rolls off a ferry or is landed in a shipping crate), you have 30 days to present the car at an NCT station, both for an NCT check — assuming the car is old enough to need one — and for valuation for VRT payment purposes. The appointment for this must be booked ahead of time online.

What is VRT?

VRT, or Vehicle Registration Tax, is the tax levied on new and imported used cars on entry into Ireland, and it replaced the old import taxes that became defunct under Ireland’s membership of the EU. It’s charged at rates ranging from seven per cent of the car’s OMSP (Open Market Selling Price) or €140, whichever is greater (and that’s for cars with CO2 emissions up to 50g/km) up to 41 per cent of the OMSP or €820, whichever is greater, for cars with CO2 emissions higher than 190g/km.

What is OMSP?

OMSP, or Open Market Selling Price, is a value determined by Revenue, which is the government department that applies and manages the VRT system. It means that instead of paying a percentage of the price you’ve actually paid for your imported car, you have to pay a percentage of the price that Revenue decides the car would have been worth had it been sold in Ireland. That calculation is based on many factors — such as make, model, age, mileage, equipment, condition — but there’s no set figure decided upon before the car is specifically valued. There is a VRT Calculator on Revenue’s website, which gives you a ballpark number of what you’ll owe, but there’s a lot of wiggle room in that figure. If you feel you’ve been overcharged for VRT, there is a process of appeal against the valuation BUT you have to pay the initial valuation first. And the NOx levy is part of that.

What’s the NOx levy?

The NOx levy was brought in in the wake of the ‘Dieselgate’ scandal in 2015, when it was found that many diesel-engined cars were emitting much more oxides of Nitrogen gas (NOx) than they were supposed to. NOx is known to be a major factor in health issues such as asthma and other serious respiratory diseases, so it was decided that cars with high NOx levels would be penalised.

It applies to all vehicles registered since 31 December 2020, and it’s based on the officially measured NOx figure that you’ll find on the car’s Certificate of Conformity (we’ll come back to that in a minute). NOx is measured in milligrams per kilometre (mg/km) and for all cars, the NOx levy is:

€5 per mg/km for the first 40mg/km

Added to €15 per mg/km between 41-80mg/km

Plus €25 per mg/km above 80g/km

This levy — which forms part of your overall VRT payment — is aimed primarily at older diesel-engined vehicles, which tend to have higher NOx emissions. There’s a maximum payment ceiling of €4,850 for diesel-engined cars, and a maximum payment of €600 for petrol cars, largely because petrol cars tend to emit very little NOx anyway.

What’s the Certificate of Conformity?

It’s basically your car’s birth cert. It lays out the car’s date of construction, and all of its official emissions and consumption measurements, as judged according to the WLTP laboratory test. If you’re importing a car from GB, then that certificate will be lodged with the DVLA (Driver and Vehicle Licencing Agency) in Swansea, and Revenue accepts their data as proof of the car’s official figures.

What else will I need?

When you come to present your car for the VRT valuation, you’ll need to bring along some paperwork. In the case of a UK car, you’ll need the V5 registration document (the UK equivalent of the logbook), the invoice proving that you’ve paid for the car, proof of address, your Personal Public Services Number (PPSN) and evidence of the date the vehicle entered the state — a ferry ticket will cover that if you drove the car here yourself. Bring ID as well.

It’s a good idea to make photocopies of all of these documents before you present them, as you may need proof for any later queries or appeals.

So I’ve paid my VRT. Is that all I need to pay?

Sadly not. Before you even get to the VRT inspection you’ll need to have paid customs duty — since Great Britain left the EU, customs duty applies to all imported cars from those three nations, and it usually costs ten per cent of the purchase price you paid for the car, plus any shipping costs.

Incidentally, and there are certain circumstances in which a car which was originally built in the UK won’t be liable for customs charges — these can include popular models such as the Toyota Corolla and Nissan Qashqai, and even more exotic stuff like Range Rovers, but the process is complicated because it also includes the country of origin of the car’s individual components, so you’ll need to check to make sure that the car qualifies as originating in the UK.

Anything else to pay?

Yes, VAT. As well as customs and VRT (and the NOx levy) there’s also VAT to pay. According to Revenue, VAT is “charged at the standard rate, currently 23 per cent, on the customs value of the vehicle. Usually this will be the purchase price, plus the cost of transport and insurance, plus any Customs Duties payable.”

Are we finally done, now?

Yes, at last, all the payments have been paid, and you can get your shiny new number plates.

Is there any way I can avoid all these taxes?

If you’re moving house from Great Britain to Ireland to take up residence, and you’re bringing your car with you, as long as that car has been registered and taxed to you at your previous address for more than six months, then VRT will be waived. You’ll still have to go through the inspection process, and provide details and proof of your change of address, but that’s one way to avoid paying customs, VRT and VAT. It’s technically known as the Transfer of Residence (TOR) relief, and you have to apply for it before you bring the car in, at least two weeks before you make your move.

If the car you’re bringing in is a classic, at least 30 years old, you’ll only have to pay a flat-rate of €200 for VRT, although you will have to still pay VAT and customs duty, but these will be based on the price you paid for the car itself.

The post Importing a Car from GB in 2025: What You Need to Know appeared first on Cartell Car Check.

The NCAP idea goes back to 1996, when the UK’s National Transport Laboratory started collaborating with its Swedish counterpart, the Swedish Road Administration, to independently crash-test a batch of small new hatchbacks to see if they were as safe as their makers claimed.

The programme quickly claimed its first scalp — in that first batch of tests, the Rover 100 (which had previously been called the Metro) performed so poorly in the frontal impact test, that it was taken off sale. The images from that particular test are incredibly sobering — the little Rover essentially folded in half.

Soon after, the NCAP idea received the backing of several more European governments, and eventually the entire EU, as well as the likes of the Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile — the FIA, which as well as being the governing body of world motorsport is also a global motoring organisation. Indeed, it was then-FIA president, the oft-controversial Max Mosley, who did a great deal to push the whole NCAP concept forward, and to turn it into the industry standard that it has become. NCAP is now administered by a whole host of national and international safety and vehicle technology organisations, including Germany’s ADAC, and the Automobile Club D’Italia.

All new cars have to pass a series of strict type-approval tests before they can be legally sold in Europe. Those tests include safety and crash tests, but the NCAP tests go much further, crashing cars — in a laboratory environment — at higher speeds than the type-approval tests, and also looking at the potential impact upon pedestrians and cyclists, as well as – increasingly — at a car’s electronic safety systems.

The standards have become stricter every year – hence why cars that received full five-star ratings in the past might, today, get only one star, or maybe none at all. There has been, in recent years, an increased focus on electronic safety systems too, which has come in for criticism from some quarters, as it has led to the introduction of many beeps and bongs which in themselves can now be seen as a distraction from driving.

Nonetheless, there’s no question that the NCAP test has saved lives, simply by encouraging car makers to build safer cars, in the search of that coveted five-star rating. Renault was the first to achieve a full five-star score from NCAP, with the second-generation Renault Laguna of 2000. Now, it’s rare that any car would not manage a full five stars, and indeed it can be quite the scandal if a new car falls short.

The NCAP tests are brutal and require multiple versions of each car being tested. Usually, these will be the best-selling model in each range, so that each test result is as representative as possible of the majority of cars that will be sold.

The headline test — and the one that destroyed that Rover 100 back in 1996 — is the head-on crash into an offset deformable barrier at 50km/h. This test is designed to replicate a head-on collision with another car, and it is staggeringly violent to watch.

Next up is a collision at the same speed into a full-width solid barrier, which puts seatbelts and airbags to the ultimate test. Then there’s the side-impact test, with a barrier moving at 60km/h, driven straight into the side of the test car. That’s followed by a 32km/h sideways impact into a rigid pole, meant to replicate hitting a telephone pole or streetlight. There’s also a specific rear-impact test to check for whiplash protection.

Then there are the pedestrian and cyclist tests, which check to see how the front structure of the car helps to protect vulnerable roads users with tests for head, pelvis and lower leg impacts, as well as checking how good the car’s cameras and radar are at detecting a pedestrian or cyclist and automatically slamming on the brakes.

That autonomous emergency braking (AEB) test forms part of the car’s ‘Safety Assist’ rating, which checks how well that AEB system works, along with the driver and occupant status monitor, the speed limit checking system and the lane-keeping steering.

Finally, each car is checked for how easy it is for emergency services to extract a wounded driver or passenger, and how well the car’s ‘e-call’ emergency phone system works.

It’s an exhaustive set of tests, and at the end a car will receive an overall star rating out of five, while it will be given a percentage rating in four categories — adult occupant protection, child occupant protection, vulnerable road user protection and safety assist systems. The best cars will score at least 85 per cent in those individual categories, although a 75 per cent score in safety assist is still considered good.

While a five-star car obviously meets and exceeds all of NCAP’s criteria, it’s interesting to note that a car which scores zero stars can actually still be legally sold as, technically, it still meets the more basic requirements of the type-approval tests. Would you want to buy one though?

Last year, the best-performing cars in the NCAP tests included the Mercedes-Benz E-Class, which was named the best overall performer, while the Mazda CX-80 took home the best SUV award, and the Skoda Superb shared its best family car award with the Volkswagen Passat. The small SUV award went to the Chinese-made Zeekr X, which isn’t yet sold in Ireland.

The post What is NCAP? appeared first on Cartell Car Check.

The post Cartell Reveals Increasing Dominance of Japanese Imports in Ireland with 56.57% Jump in September Alone appeared first on Cartell Car Check.

The National Car Testing (NCT) service is a regular check-up of your vehicle’s health, which becomes mandatory for every car that’s more than three years old. And as it is checking the safety status of your vehicle, it can be a daunting appointment on your upcoming calendar.

But it shouldn’t be a scary process and even those who aren’t mechanically savvy ought to be able to prep their car for an NCT without panicking about it. Here, then, are our top tips to get your car ready for its NCT.

Scheduling

The NCT applies for cars which are four years old or older, but for vehicles aged between four and ten years old, the schedule is biannual – as in, your car only needs testing every two years. Once the car passes the age of ten, it must be tested every single year.

You get a  reminder when your vehicle’s motor tax is due, but there’s no such thing for the NCT – the onus is on you to know when it is due for its first test, and then all subsequent procedures thereafter. Luckily, there’s a system to check when your car is due for an NCT on the NCTS website, which simply requires you enter your vehicle’s registration number to find out when the test is due. You can book an NCT up to 90 days before your certificate is due to expire, for reference.

Give the car a thorough clean – outside and in

You have to make sure that the lights, windows, mirrors and licence plates are all clear and undamaged before you submit your car to the NCT, because all of them will be checked by the tester who is evaluating your vehicle. It is advisable to get the underside of the car washed too, which is easily done at most brush washes.

It’s not just the outside but the interior needs attention too. For instance, if you have child seats in the back, the test is obliged to check they’re fitted properly – and if they’re not, your car will fail the NCT. Best to just remove them, as well as other clutter in the cabin and boot, to make your life (and the tester’s) easier.

Check all your lights work

Any blown bulbs in the vehicle’s exterior lighting systems are an instant NCT failure, so this is an essential check. You can either do this with the help of a friend or family member, who would stand outside the vehicle while you operate all the lights and tell you if they’re working properly, or you can do much of it looking at a reflection of the car in a large window. But you need to check every indicator bulb (front, rear and sides), the dipped and main-beam headlights, front and rear parking lights, brake lights, fog lights and the illumination of the rear number plate.

If any of these bulbs aren’t working, you’ll need to replace them. The good news is that car lighting bulbs are normally very cheap and they’re usually easy enough to replace yourself, even if you’re not a mechanic. However, modern cars can have LED lamp clusters and self-levelling light systems, which might mean it’s better to take the car to a decent local garage just to get a bit of assistance with the replacement of any failed bulbs. Incidentally, if you have very advanced LED lights, they can be higher voltage and it’s not necessarily a good idea to replace them without expert help – although LEDs are less likely to fail than the sort of older, conventional bulbs that are a doddle to replace.

Check all your car’s fluids are at the right levels

All of the engine oil, the radiator coolant, the brake fluid, the power steering fluid and the windscreen washer fluid are checked as part of the NCT. Topping these up, if they need replenishment, is normally a simple task and their filler points are easily identified under the bonnet. The brake fluid and power steering fluid will need more care and attention, though, so perhaps take the car to a trusted garage if you’re unsure of what you’re doing on either score.

Don’t ignore the warning signs

If there are any warning lights illuminated on the dashboard, or your car’s suspension is making a loud knocking noise, or the vehicle is pulling strongly to one side or the other when it should be driving straight, you’ll need to get it sorted ahead of the NCT. On the former point, airbag warning lights are an instant failure, and the tester might not even put the car through its test if the engine management light is blazing brightly in the dashboard instrument display.

Tyres, tyres, tyres

This is one of the most critical areas to check before an NCT, especially if your car is older and on or approaching an annual testing cycle. First of all, check the tyres’ sidewalls (the rubber sections which don’t roll along the road) to find an ‘E’ stamp on them. This shows they are EU-approved tyres, and such things have been a prerequisite of passing an NCT since April 2010. It’s pretty hard to find tyres which lack for the E-stamp, but part-worn items might not conform to the rules so check carefully.

After that, you are checking the tyres’ general condition. Watch out for bulges or cracks in the sidewalls, as they would fail you the test and you’ll need to replace the affected items. The tread depth (the patterns cut into the section of the tyre which rolls along the road surface) must be at least 1.6mm deep across the middle of the tyre. A straightforward way to check this is to get a €1 coin and insert it into the grooves of the tread. If you can see any of the gold outer ring at the bottom of the coin where it rests in the groove, your tyres need replacing immediately. Finally, check that they’re all inflated to the correct pressure – you can find the relevant information for this in the owner’s handbook, or (failing that) on a sticker that’ll either be in the door frame or the inside of the fuel-tank filler that’ll show you the right pressures.

Final Shakedown

The wheel nuts must be visible for the NCT, so remove hubcaps or alloy-wheel centre caps before bringing the car into the testing facility. Check your wipers and replace the blades if they’re badly worn or juddering over the screen. Make sure you leave plenty of time to arrive before the test and perhaps give the car a good run to fully warm up the engine before you submit the vehicle for its checks.

Paperwork

Your car won’t even be tested if you don’t bring the vehicle registration book along with you, as well as the registration certificate. And you must also bring some form of identification for yourself, as that has been a rule since May 2012. It doesn’t matter if it’s not the owner of the car bringing it for the test, but whoever it is must have ID with them.

The costs – and the fines if you avoid the NCT

Since the start of 2025, the costs of the NCT have gone up. It’s now €60 for your first test and €40 for a retest (if needed). If you book an appointment and fail to turn up for it, you’ll be charged a fee of €24. Payments can be made by cash, debit cards and most credit cards, but not cheques – and if you’re thinking you can avoid the NCT to save some cash, think again. It’s illegal to drive without a valid NCT certificate and the fine for doing so is the same as the test – €60 – although it’s also accompanied by three penalty points on your licence. And if you don’t pay that fine within 28 days, then the fee rises to €90.

The post NCT Checklist appeared first on Cartell Car Check.

Cartell, together with our Motion partners CarsIreland and Carzone, hosted our annual Customer Golf Appreciation Day at Killeen Castle in County Meath. The event has become a firm date in the automotive calendar — a day of friendly competition, great golf and even better conversations. A special thank-you to PTSB Asset Finance for sponsoring this year’s outing.

On the course
Despite forecasts, the weather played ball — bright spells and good conditions made for an enjoyable round on one of Ireland’s top courses. Alongside the team event, players took part in longest-drive and closest-to-the-pin challenges, keeping spirits (and stakes) high throughout.

Community & connections
More than a golf day, the outing is a chance for customers and partners to reconnect in a relaxed setting, share ideas, and strengthen ties across the Motion network.

2025 Winners

• 1st: Cavanaghs of Charleville
• 2nd: RM Commercials
• 3rd: Southside Autolink
• 4th: Pierse Motors
• 5th: Bright Motor Group
• 6th: Wilsons Auctions

Congratulations to all our prize-winners and sincere thanks to every team who joined us.

See you next year
We’re already looking forward to welcoming customers and partners back for an even bigger and better event in 2026.

The post Customer Golf Appreciation Day 2025 – Highlights from Killeen Castle appeared first on Cartell Car Check.

Over recent years, there’s been a shift in the focus of importing used cars into Ireland – with consumers’ preferred route no longer being to bring in vehicles just from the UK, but to instead look much further east to Japan.

Data published by Cartell.ie last year showed that buyers are increasingly turning to Japanese imports in a post-Brexit era, with UK imports dwindling significantly in the same period.

There are now notable cost benefits associated with bringing in a used car from Japan instead of the UK, as well as reliability benefits too – but there are also some potential drawbacks, specifically with tracing the history of these Japanese models.

However, now that Cartell.ie provides the first vehicle history reports service for Japanese import vehicles, there is more clarity in the process for Irish used-car buyers that should only see the popularity of importing vehicles from the Asian country increase.

Here, we look at the recent trend towards Japanese imports, the pros and cons of such vehicles, and which are some of the most popular models coming to these shores.

Why imports from Japan?

Principally, it’s one of the few countries in the world with left-hand traffic like ours, which in turn means cars where the driver sits on the right-hand side of the vehicle.

More than double the countries in the world (165) use right-hand traffic and left-hand drive, including all of Europe barring the UK (and its dependencies, like the Channel Islands), Malta and Cyprus, compared to the 75 which are set up like Ireland.

Of these left-hand traffic markets, Japan is easily the most important from an automotive perspective, given the number of manufacturers which herald from there and how important its car market is viewed in the global framework.

What are the numbers involved?

In the past decade, data from Cartell.ie shows Japanese imports have increased nearly tenfold, from 2,321 units in 2014 to 21,716 units in 2023.

In contrast, UK imports have significantly declined, from 44,939 in 2014 to just 14,904 in 2023.

Primarily, this is to do with the UK’s departure from the EU. UK imports to Ireland peaked in 2019 but then started the rapid decline the following year, due to the import costs and conditions (including increased paperwork and restrictions) of bringing a car from the UK changing for the worse in the wake of Brexit.

By 2024, figures showed there were double the number of Japanese imports as opposed to UK  imports coming to Ireland.

What are the pros and cons of Japanese imports?

Japan, despite a climate that includes the risk of plenty of snow and ice in various regions of the country, does not tend to salt its roads to anywhere near such a widespread degree as the UK does in cold weather – the Asian country instead relying on other, more innovative methods to combat frozen roads.

As a result, this means cars which have spent all their life in Japan are far more likely to be rust-free – especially in hidden areas, like underneath the vehicle and in the chassis structure – than cars from the UK, where the salt content can badly corrode steel.

Japan also has different rates of depreciation on used cars, which can mean better-quality vehicles are available at lower prices than they might be in equivalent specification in the UK.

Furthermore, Japanese owners are traditionally seen as more fastidious, so their vehicles are considered more reliable and well-maintained.

Another potential benefit with the Japanese market cars is that they tend to have higher specifications with more advanced technology, as well as better fuel efficiency ratings too (hybrids are very popular in Japan).

However, traditionally the main issue with a Japanese import was to do with ‘buying it blind’. This is because it was often hard to trace the history of a vehicle that had been driven in Japan, so it wasn’t always known if the car had been properly serviced according to the manufacturer’s criteria, nor if it had been previously crash-damaged and then repaired, or even stolen.

A survey of Japan’s fleet of used vehicles – no fewer than a staggering 130 million vehicles – showed that 600,000 of them had been damaged in accidents, 21,000 were reported as stolen, around 30 per cent (39 million) had reported mileage discrepancies (i.e., their odometers were showing fewer total kilometres travelled than the true figure), and bizarrely, fully 1,400 of them failed a radioactive contamination test.

One continuing drawback of Japanese-market vehicles, either from manufacturers based there or cars from European manufacturers sent as exports to the country, is that they can use unusual parts that might not be available through European dealers and garages. This is particularly prevalent on Japan-made vehicles that were never exported from their home country, such as unusual people carriers, SUVs and hybrids from the likes of Toyota, Honda, Nissan and so on.

The Car VX Report from Cartell.ie

Thankfully, a lot of the risks listed above can now be mitigated by Irish consumers looking to import a Japanese vehicle, thanks to the Car VX Report.

For just €25.50 (depending on exchange rates – whatever the euro is worth compared to ¥3,500 Japanese yen), Car VX Limited has access to data from the Japanese Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism (MLIT) which includes comprehensive vehicle history reports for second-hand cars in the country.

This not only covers whether the car has ever suffered a form of accident damage (including floods, fires and other natural disasters) or whether its mileage is accurate, but also whether it has ever been recalled, stolen, used as a service vehicle (police, taxi etc), or presents a risk of radioactive contamination.

The most popular models to import

While it might seem obvious to assume that the most popular cars to import from Japan are vehicles from its own domestic manufacturers that were never sold overseas, in actual fact the strongest trade is in European models heading back this way from Asia.

Used Volkswagens from Japan are the most popular make for imports to Ireland, with particular emphasis on the Polo supermini and Golf hatchback. Related to the latter, the Audi A3 is also one of the most-imported vehicles from Japan to Ireland, while other premium German and Swedish marques (BMW, Mercedes, Volvo) feature highly.

Having said that, Japanese brands such as Toyota, Honda and Nissan are increasing in popularity. If the cars coming from Japan are from Japanese manufacturers, typically they’re between six and ten years old, with the majority of them in 2024 having petrol engines. The remainder are typically petrol-electric hybrids, a popular type of vehicle in Japan in general.

The post Japanese Imports: Trends, Benefits and Buyer Beware appeared first on Cartell Car Check.

When you’re buying a used car, there’s plenty of things to look out for – such as its service history, its mechanical condition, its previous owners and so on.

But there’s also the potential that the car you’re looking at wasn’t just used as personal transportation in its former life, and that instead it was a vehicle which had a hard-working existence as a taxi.

Here are our tips to spot if the car you are potentially buying was a taxi.

Higher than normal mileage for the year of the car

Let’s start with the most obvious. Hundreds of thousands of kilometres showing on the odometer isn’t, in and of itself, a sure sign that the car was a taxi previously, but if the vehicle has done 250,000km-plus in only three, four or five years, then that’s abnormally high distance for such a short space of time.

Despite the fact that they spend most of their working life at lower speeds and they typically stay within the confines of cities and towns on local roads, experts reckon taxis can still cover up to three or four times the annual distance that a privately owned car of the same specification and age would do.

So balance the number on the odometer with the numbers on the registration plate of the car, to see if you think it might be showing excessive mileage for its age. If you do think that, then it’s possible you’ve got a former taxi on your hands.

“Big, spacious and comfortable cars which are reasonably affordable to run are popular taxis, as are reliable and fuel-efficient hybrids.”

Excessive wear and tear in the interior

A really shiny, almost totally smooth steering wheel, pedals in the driver’s footwell that don’t have any rubber left on them, and tired-looking seats are all sure giveaways that a car was driven a lot on a daily basis over a long period of time, and is therefore highly likely to have been a taxi.

On the last of those three points, pay particular attention to the rear seats. It’s not unusual for the driver’s seat in any older, higher-mileage car to be badly worn, especially on the bolster near the door, because it’s the one seat in a vehicle that is guaranteed to be occupied every time the car is driven. But, apart from families with young children, most private car owners rarely use the rear seats, and they can often look pristine, even in vehicles which have been around for a decade and more. So, if they’re cracked, worn, saggy or stained, or more typically you can see signs of damage on the backs of the front seats ahead of them, it’s a good indicator that you’re looking at an ex-taxi.

Connected to that, closely inspect the rear door handles inside and outside the car. If they’re really scuffed and scratched, or smooth and shiny on the interior with bits of trim flaking off, again it’s a signal that the rear doors have been used more often than not, so it was probably a taxi before.

Damage or signs of repair to the dashboard

Various meters and bits of taxi-specific equipment have to be retrofitted to cars to make them into taxis, and this often means brackets and mounts are either screwed into or glued onto the dashboard. Therefore, give the front fascia of the car you’re looking at a really thorough inspection. Any circular patches of adhesive residue or small holes in surfaces you can spot indicate the car was a taxi.

Excessive servicing record

As a taxi driver, your vehicle is your livelihood, so it needs to work reliably, day in, day out – downtime is the enemy. Therefore, the driver or the taxi firm in question tend to put their cars in for more regular servicing and maintenance work to prevent their vehicles spending any unnecessary time off the road. So, if you can see the service record of the vehicle you’re looking at, and it has had services at far more regular intervals than the manufacturer’s recommended schedule, then you’re probably looking at an ex-taxi.

Baggy clutch, weak brakes

Checking these will require a test drive of the vehicle in question, plus a bit of mechanical nous, but if you’re testing a manual car and the clutch feels incredibly floppy or has a really high biting point (i.e., the point of left-hand-pedal travel where you can feel the engine is starting to apply drive to the car’s wheels), or alternatively the brakes are a bit weak and ineffective-feeling, it’s a good sign the model you’re looking at was a taxi.

Taxis tend to spend most of their working life entirely in cities and built-up areas, where there’s lots of stop-start driving that puts extra strain on components like the clutch, brakes and suspension, and while taxi firms will do whatever they can to mitigate that during a vehicle’s operational life, across the course of thousands of kilometres then the brakes and clutch in particular will take more hammer than they should do in heavy city traffic. A loose, baggy gearshift in a manual transmission is another sure sign of taxi duties and is harder to fix than replacing a clutch, or some brake pads and discs.

Strange smells in the interior – including cleaning products

Without wishing to go into too much graphic detail, taxis often work hardest late at night ferrying people back from being on the town – which can lead to unfortunate accidents in the interior. And anyone who has had that happen in their own car, most usually with children feeling travel sick, will tell you it’s one of the hardest smells to ever get rid of. To combat that, taxi firms often go to town with the cleaning products, so if there’s an overriding whiff of strong detergents in an older car’s cabin, that’s a good sign it was formerly a taxi.

Be aware of typical models

Big, spacious and comfortable cars which are reasonably affordable to run are popular taxis, as are reliable and fuel-efficient hybrids. This means there are certain vehicles which are top picks for taxi companies. Larger Skoda models with turbodiesel engines, for example, such as the Octavia and Superb, are often seen as taxis. And then, on the other side of things, Toyota hybrids are brilliant cars for taxi duties – so the Prius, most typically, and many of them have been imported as used cars from Japan.

On the flipside of this, if you want to almost guarantee avoiding ex-taxis, then look at cars that don’t have five doors and a big boot. Coupes, convertibles and three-door hatchbacks are not used as taxis because they would be highly impractical for passengers to get into and out of. Taxi drivers tend to prefer larger saloons, five-door hatchbacks, estates and even crossovers or SUVs.

Cartell’s services

Cartell.ie offers a service which can reveal if any car has previously been used as a taxi or hackney.

The post How to identify an ex-taxi when buying a car appeared first on Cartell Car Check.

Here are 5 simple ways to spot a flood-damaged car before you buy:

1. Check for a Musty or Damp Smell Inside

One of the easiest giveaways is an unusual odour inside the car. If it smells musty, mouldy, or like damp fabric, it could be a sign the car has been exposed to water. Sellers sometimes try to mask this with air fresheners, so pay attention and trust your nose.

Tip: Turn on the air conditioning and heater – any damp smells coming through the vents could be a red flag.

2. Look for Water Stains and Rust in Odd Places

Inspect the interior carefully, especially:

• Under the carpets and floor mats

• Beneath the seats

• In the boot well

• Around the spare wheel area

Water stains, tide marks, or corrosion on metal parts inside the car are strong indicators it may have been submerged at some stage.

3. Test the Electronics Thoroughly

Flood damage often wreaks havoc on a car’s electrical system. Check that:

• All windows, locks, and mirrors work as expected

• The stereo, dashboard lights, and all buttons respond correctly

• Warning lights disappear after the car starts

Even a small glitch could hint at water having reached delicate wiring components.

Mud or silt in corners, around bolts, or in hard-to-reach crevices

Rust on engine components or brackets that shouldn’t normally be exposed to moisture

Water marks on the underside of the bonnet

4. Inspect Under the Bonnet and Chassis

Pop the bonnet and look for:

• Mud or silt in corners, around bolts, or in hard-to-reach crevices

• Rust on engine components or brackets that shouldn’t normally be exposed to moisture

• Water marks on the underside of the bonnet

Similarly, check underneath the car for signs of rust or dirt where it shouldn’t be.

5. Run a Full Car History Check

The most reliable way to avoid buying a flood-damaged car is with a Cartell Car History Check. We’ll tell you if a vehicle has been:

• Written off as a flood-damaged car in Ireland or the UK

• Registered with insurance companies following a flooding incident

• Previously reported as a Category B/C salvage vehicle

A history check reveals hidden details you won’t find from a visual inspection alone — saving you from potential disaster later on.
Final Word

A flood-damaged car might look fine after a good clean-up, but the problems it hides can be expensive, unsafe, and a nightmare to repair. When buying used, follow these five checks and always get a Car History Check from Cartell.ie before you hand over your hard-earned money.

Check before you buy. It could save you thousands.

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The post 5 Ways to Spot a Flood-Damaged Car appeared first on Cartell Car Check.

Get ready to feel the wind in your hair! Irish drivers are increasingly opting for open-air motoring, with convertible sales consistently surging each summer. Cartell.ie, Ireland’s leading and most trusted source for comprehensive vehicle history checks, has analyzed this exciting trend, supported by recent data from the Society of the Irish Motor Industry (SIMI).

Our latest findings show a clear and consistent spike in convertible registrations over the past decade during the warmer months. This isn’t just a fleeting fancy – it’s a recurring trend reflecting a growing desire among Irish motorists to make the most of those sunny days.

Summer is Convertible Season!

The data speaks for itself: nearly 20% of all convertible sales over the last ten years happened in July alone! This strong seasonal preference is a stark contrast to the colder months, with a mere 0.45% of convertibles finding new homes in December. It’s clear that when the sun shines, Irish drivers want their convertibles.

Where are Ireland’s Convertible Capitals?

SIMI data also reveals which counties are leading the charge in open-air motoring. In 2024, Dublin took the top spot, accounting for a staggering 70.65% of all convertible registrations. While the capital certainly loves its drop-tops, the passion extends beyond, with Cork following at 7.61% and Meath at 4.35%. So, whether you’re cruising through the city or taking in the scenic routes, the love for convertibles is undeniable across the country.

Top Convertibles on Irish Roads

Cartell.ie’s extensive database also reveals the most popular convertibles gracing Irish roads:

1. Mazda MX-5: Taking the top spot with just over 1,000 units.
2. Mini Convertible
3. Mercedes-Benz SLK Series

A Shift in Driving Culture

Wesley Littleford, Commercial Operations Manager at Cartell.ie, commented on these findings:

“This trend highlights a real shift in Irish driving culture. We’re seeing motorists invest in vehicles that reflect lifestyle and experience, not just practicality. The data shows that, year after year, Irish drivers are increasingly willing to embrace the convertible as a seasonal choice. It’s a strong signal that, even in an unpredictable climate, there’s a growing appetite for fun, freedom, and driving enjoyment.”

Looking to buy your own slice of summer motoring freedom? Make sure you get a Cartell.ie car history check to ensure you’re making a smart, informed purchase.

The post Convertible Sales on the up appeared first on Cartell Car Check.

For nearly 19 years, Cartell.ie has been at the forefront of vehicle history reporting, equipping consumers with essential data to make informed decisions. The company has long advocated for enhanced data sharing across the industry to protect buyers from purchasing unsafe or previously damaged vehicles.

“The CCPC’s findings reaffirm the importance of transparency in the used car market,” said Ger Toher, Chief Operating Officer at Cartell.ie. “We have always championed consumers’ right to clear, accurate, and comprehensive vehicle history information. Greater access to critical data, especially write-off records, will help ensure buyers are protected from hidden risks. Our commitment remains to provide the most reliable vehicle history insights, empowering motorists to purchase with confidence and trust.”

As Ireland’s first and original vehicle history check provider, Cartell.ie’s reports include a wealth of information, such as:

• Write-off history – Including damage severity and category classification where available.
• Outstanding finance – Ensuring the vehicle is free from financial encumbrance.
• Previous mileage readings – Detecting odometer fraud.
• Ownership history – Checking the number of previous owners.
• Imports and previous country of registration – Highlighting cross-border risks.
• Taxi or fleet use – Flagging vehicles that may have high mileage or wear.
• CO₂ emissions and road tax information – Helping buyers understand running costs.
• NCT history verification – Confirming past NCT test dates and certificate legitimacy. While specific test results or pass/fail status are not disclosed, this verification provides added confidence for buyers. For UK vehicles and imports, full MOT history, including test results, is available.
• Insurance claims and stolen vehicle records – Offering insights into past insurance claims and theft status where available. While stolen vehicle checks apply to UK reports, the depth of claim history depends on insurer submissions.

In addition to its consumer-focused services, Cartell.ie offers trade sellers on its sister platforms, Carzone.ie and CarsIreland.ie, a free vehicle history check for each ad placed ensuring this data is available to buyers. Buyers can also filter search results to display only vehicles with a history check, ensuring maximum transparency throughout the purchasing process.

Cartell.ie believes a collaborative approach, combining industry expertise with government oversight, is key to improving data accessibility. The company continues to advocate for broader access to vital vehicle history data, particularly category C and D write-off records, to support safer, more informed car purchases.

Cartell.ie looks forward to further engaging with the CCPC, the Department of Transport, and other stakeholders to drive meaningful improvements in data transparency within the used car market.

The post Cartell.ie Supports CCPC’s Call for Greater Transparency in the Used Car Market appeared first on Cartell Car Check.

Over the past decade, Japanese imports have increased nearly tenfold, from 2,321 in 2014 to 21,716 in 2023. In contrast, UK imports have declined from 44,939 in 2014 to 14,904 in 2023.

Wesley Littleford, Cartell’s Commercial Operations Manager, comments, “Like many Irish industries, the automotive sector has had to rapidly adapt to changing import costs and conditions from the UK market post-Brexit. The Japanese market has emerged as a more affordable alternative for dealerships and individual buyers alike.”

In 2015, there were twice as many used UK imports as Japanese imports arriving in Ireland. UK imports peaked in 2019 but began to decline rapidly the following year due to Brexit. Between 2020 and 2022, Japanese imports nearly doubled year on year: from 4,575 in 2020 to 9,805 in 2021, and 18,524 in 2022. This trend resulted in twice as many used Japanese imports as UK imports in 2023.

“The trend seems set to continue for Japanese imports, with roughly twice as many Japanese cars arriving in the country compared to UK imports so far in 2024.”

Since the UK’s exit from the European Union, Irish buyers have faced increased costs and paperwork when importing vehicles from the UK, whereas favourable depreciation rates for cars in Japan mean high quality vehicles available at lower rates. Japanese vehicles are also increasingly seen as reliable and well-maintained, providing good value for money.

Importers specialising in Japanese vehicles have likely seen a rise in business, contributing to the country’s economic growth.

While Japanese imports surge, Cartell data reveals that European models still reign supreme. Volkswagen is the most popular car maker imported from Japan, with the Golf and Polo taking the top spots. Audi and the A3 are the next most imported make and model. Despite the popularity of Japanese-made European models, brands like Toyota, Honda, and Nissan are also gradually increasing in popularity.

Most Japanese cars being imported are aged between 6-10 years, with 73% having petrol engines so far in 2024. In comparison, 22.8% are petrol-electric hybrids.

Japanese vehicles often have more advanced technology and fuel efficiency compared to older UK models, which is a positive step towards reducing Ireland’s emissions and promoting fuel-efficient alternatives. While these vehicles need to comply with EU regulations, it can also be seen as a positive impact on niche businesses providing these compliance checks, potential modifications, and adjustments to supply chain and logistics.

The post Ireland Increasingly Leaning Towards Japanese Car Imports Over UK appeared first on Cartell Car Check.

This years event will be the 17th Ted’s Opel Vauxhall Run, and will take place on Saturday August 10th 2024.

Based at The Mills Inn, Ballyvourney, Co. Cork, the Scenic route will pass through some of the Lee Valley’s beautiful scenery along with some historic motorsport sections and former rally stages. It takes in Ballyvourney, Farnanes, Coachford, Dripsey Model village, Berrings, Donoghmore, Rylane, Millstreet and returning to the Mills Inn for a BBQ and prizegiving. 

Registration takes place on Saturday morning from 9am with a €20 fee per car. Each driver will receive a starter pack containing a special run Mug and Keyring and other goodies. The first Award of the day will be presented at 10am and the cars will depart at 10.30am. 

The event will raise money in association with the Dogs For the Disabled, a very worthwhile Charity, for dogs that make a unmeasurable difference for people in need.

This years event sponsors will be Opel Ireland, Cartell.ie. and Casey Caravan Services.

You can get down to support by giving a wave even if you don’t have a vehicle. Or follow the event on Facebook, Ted’s Opel Vauxhall Run 2024 .

The post Cartell Sponsors Ted’s Opel Vauxhall Run 2024 appeared first on Cartell Car Check.

New car registrations for June were down 50% (1,499) when compared to June 2023 (2,990). Registrations year to date are up 1.7% (78,942) on the same period last year (77,602). 

Light Commercial Vehicles (LCVs) declined by 35.8% (688) compared to June last year (1,072). Year to date LCVs are up 17.8% (20,229). HGVs (Heavy Goods Vehicles) registrations are down 1.6% (127) in comparison to June 2023 (129). Year to date HGVs are up 17.9% (1,826).

Imported Used Cars have seen a 22.2% (5,165) rise in June 2024, when compared to June 2023 (4,228). Year to date imports are up 25.4% (31,372) on 2023 (25,025).

In June 692 new electric cars were registered, which was 52% lower than the 1,432 registrations in June 2023. So far this year, 10,747 new electric cars have been registered which is a 25% decrease compared to the same period in 2023 when 14,307 electric cars were registered. In the new car market share by engine type for 2024, Petrol cars lead the new car market at 32.96% followed by Diesel at 22.89%, then Hybrid (Petrol Electric) at 20.11%, Electric at 13.61%, and Plug-in Electric Hybrid at 8.83%.

Brian Cooke, SIMI Director General commenting: “In June new car registrations declined by 50% on the same month last year. Following four consecutive months of decline, new car registrations for the first half of the year stand at 78,942 units, a marginal increase on 2023. Both light and heavy commercial vehicles registrations saw a decline in sales for the month of June, but the activity remains strong in the commercial fleet. New electric car registrations continue to experience a decline in sales, with June registrations falling by 52% to 692 units. From January to June, a total of 10,747 new electric cars were registered, marking a 25% decrease from the same period the previous year. 

The decline in the new EV car market continues to highlight the need for Government to support the EV transition, with ways to incentivise the market for both private and company car buyers. Extending consumer incentives and Benefit-in-Kind support, along with investment in charging infrastructure will build consumer and business confidence and encourage uptake. Retailers remain optimistic as we enter the 242-registration plate sales period, and with new models coming to the market along with variety of attractive offers are positive that this will help to boost sales activity in July, the second busiest month for new car sales.”

The post SIMI call for more government support for EV transition as sales fall appeared first on Cartell Car Check.

Wesley Littleford, Cartell’s Commercial Operations Manager, notes, “A car, even if used, is likely to be one of the biggest purchases a person will ever make. It pays massive dividends to know exactly what you’re getting into before any potential purchase.”

A history check digitally delves back into a car’s records, verifying — or sometimes denying — any claims made by the seller. So, what should you be mindful of when obtaining your car vehicle history check?

Outstanding Finance

Now that second-hand car market values are starting to correct after significant inflation during the pandemic, there’s an opportunity for unscrupulous sellers to try and turn some extra profit during market changes.

Using its extensive motoring marketplace data, Cartell estimates that two-year-old second-hand cars have a 35% chance of still having finance owing, while the rate for three-year-old vehicles is 32%. With complete ownership not transferring until the final payment to a finance provider is made, there is a one-in-three chance that any second-hand car on the market is still, technically, the property of a finance provider.

In some cases, a less honest individual may attempt to sell a car that they do not technically own. Once they stop making their repayments, the finance company will seek to repossess the car — leaving you with no legal recourse and without a vehicle.

Written-Off Cars

As well as providing finance details, a vehicle history check can also reveal if a car has been written off.

Insurers can write off cars for relatively minor damage, which may be adequately repaired, returned to roadworthiness, and sold. However, it’s crucial that the seller discloses this and prices the car accordingly. A written-off car, no matter how well repaired, will always be worth less than a pristine equivalent.

It becomes even more serious with the higher categories of write-offs. Categories C and D can be legally and safely repaired and resold in Ireland. However, if a car has been so severely damaged that it falls into Category B, it can only be dismantled for parts, and only the undamaged parts may be sold and reused. If a car is damaged to the extent of being a Category A, then it’s legally required to be crushed and not even used for spares.

Equipped With All The Facts

With any car being such a significant purchase, it pays to ensure you’re making your decision with all the right facts. The simple version of all this advice is easy – get any car you’re considering checked to save yourself any regrets down the road.

The post Cartell Reveals Dangers for Car Buyers Who Miss Vehicle History Check appeared first on Cartell Car Check.

Now, a history check won’t verify the condition of the car as it is today — you still need to do that yourself with a thorough inspection and a test drive — but it will tell you things that can be even more significant. After all, a component that breaks can be fixed, but if a car still has outstanding finance owed on it, that’s a whole other ballgame.

Essentially, a history check digitally delves back into the history of a car and verifies — or sometimes denies — anything that’s been told you by the seller. It goes back and checks for any history of insurance write-offs, of the car having been stolen and recovered, and will also check the identity of the car itself, to help in the fight against vehicle cloning.

Why is it so important now to get a history check?

Simply because the second-hand car market has seen the values of many cars massively inflated in the past few years, especially since the pandemic. Now, those values are starting to correct, and cars are becoming a little cheaper in many cases, but whenever there’s a change in the market there’s an opportunity for unscrupulous sellers to try and turn some extra profit.

The big issue right now is outstanding finance. With more cars being sold on the basis of a loan or a PCP deal, Cartell has estimated that two-year-old, second-hand cars have a 35 per cent chance of still having finance owing, while the rate for three-year-old cars is 32 per cent. That’s a one-in-three chance that any second-hand car at which you might look to buy is still, technically, the property of a finance provider, as ownership does not transfer until the final payment has been made.

In some cases, this may well not be an issue — a seller may be selling their car in order to pay off that debt, but in some cases, there are darker forces at work, and a less scrupulous person can sell you a car that they don’t technically own. Once they stop making their repayments, the finance company will come looking for that car, and it’s theirs to repossess — you will have no legal comeback and will be both out of pocket and without a car. So, it’s really important to know that before making the buying leap.

There are other significant issues, not least that of written-off cars

Cars can be potentially written off by insurers for relatively minor damage, and it’s certainly not unknown for such cars to be properly repaired, returned to road-worthiness and sold on. However, it’s hugely important that the seller tells you this, and prices the car accordingly — a written-off car, no matter how well repaired, will always be worth a little less than a pristine equivalent. So again, it’s important to be armed with knowledge, not least because you’ll want to inspect the quality of any repair work.

That becomes even more serious when you consider the higher categories of write-offs. Categories C and D, in Ireland, can be legally and safely repaired and resold. However, if a car has been so severely damaged that it is declared Category B, then it can only be broken down for parts, and then only the undamaged parts may be sold and reused. If a car is damaged to the point of being a Category A, then it’s a legal requirement that it is to be crushed, and not even used for spares.

This becomes a little more confusing when cars that come in from the UK are involved, as UK write-offs are filed under different categories. Thankfully, the most serious categories — A and B — are the same, but the UK uses Categories S and N as the equivalents of the Irish C and D.

It’s good to know this given that we are seeing an increasing number of used imports from the UK this year, with the number of cars crossing the Irish sea increasing by 32 per cent to the end of February, compared to the same time last year. That’s 10,270 extra used cars on Irish roads, and it’s been previously estimated that as many as ten per cent of those might be previously written-off, so once again it’s vital to keep your wits about you.

The simple version of all this advice? Get it checked; don’t regret it.

The post Why getting a car history check is more important than ever. appeared first on Cartell Car Check.

With the Society of the Irish Motor Industry (SIMI) recently reporting that 2023 was a strong year for new-car sales, and electric vehicles (EVs) forming a significant part of the overall figures, Cartell has decided to look at a regional level to see how parts of Ireland are adopting both EVs and hybrids.

SIMI’s final number of total new registrations in 2023 is set at 122,310, with pure EVs accounting for 22,789 (18.63%) of that number. Petrol hybrids (non-plug-in) followed, with 22,597 registrations (18.48 %), then petrol-electric plug-in hybrids at 10,085 registrations (8.25 %).

It’s worth noting that pure petrol-engined cars were on top (36,852, 30.13%) with diesel in second (27,248, 22.28%).

However, while internal-combustion power still seems to rule supreme in Ireland, it would seem the needle of consumer demand is shifting ever more towards electric propulsion – with some areas of the country seeing electric outstripping diesel sales.

Nationally, the top ten preferred brands were Toyota, Volkswagen, Hyundai, Skoda, Kia, Ford, Audi, BMW, Dacia and then Peugeot, in descending order. Many of these marques have either strong EV line-ups, or a heavy focus on electrification in the form of hybrids, particularly Toyota.

That’s reflected in the most successful models, including the top-selling Hyundai Tucson, Kia Sportage, Toyota Corolla and Toyota Yaris Cross.

However, only one pure EV made the top ten – the Volkswagen ID.4, sitting in fifth place overall.

Against that backdrop of preferences, let’s look at the individual areas of Ireland to see how they’re adopting EVs and hybrids.

SOUTH-WEST

Co. Cork = 13,903 sales (11.37% of nat. total); EV sales 16.69% of Cork’s figures
Co. Kerry = 2,438 sales (1.99% of nat. total); EV sales 12.63% of Kerry’s figures

Cork, as Ireland’s second city, is the location of the second Tesla showroom in the country, but despite that the American EV company doesn’t feature in the county’s top tens. Co. Cork follows the national pattern, in the main, with its three favourite brands being Toyota, Hyundai and Kia. There are no out-and-out EV-only models in its favoured vehicles, but nine out of ten of the best-selling cars in Cork either have strong hybrid representation in their line-ups, or at least an electric model to opt for (e.g. the Hyundai Kona in ninth). Cork favoured petrol (32.22%) and then diesel (21.10%) power for its new cars in 2023.

Kerry, though smaller in the number of sales and percentage of EVs as part of that figure, did at least see the Volkswagen ID.4, Ireland’s favourite EV, in tenth place on its list, with 48 examples sold across the year. Petrol hybrids outsold EVs in Kerry in 2023, with 17.97% of its total new-car sales.

SOUTH-EAST

Co. Carlow = 1,255 sales (1.03% of nat. total); EV sales 17.05% of Carlow’s figures
Co. Kilkenny = 2,042 sales (1.67% of nat. total); EV sales 13.52% of Kilkenny’s figures
Co. Tipperary = 2,926 sales (2.39% of nat. total); EV sales 12.92% of Tipperary’s figures
Co. Waterford = 2,752 sales (2.25% of nat. total); EV sales 15.12% of Waterford’s figures
Co. Wexford = 2,847 sales (2.33% of nat. total); EV sales 17.95% of Wexford’s figures

None of the south-east counties particularly bucked the national trend, with petrol and diesel taking the top two spots in all five locations – albeit diesel won out (with 29.08% market share) in Tipperary. Hybrid cars performed well across the region, though, while the pure-electric ID.4 appeared in ninth on Waterford’s list and a more impressive fifth in Wexford.

SHANNON

Co. Clare = 2,398 sales (1.96% of nat. total); EV sales 17.56% of Clare’s figures
Co. Limerick = 3,801 sales (3.11% of nat. total); EV sales 15.44% of Limerick’s figures

Clare seems to be moving towards EVs earlier than some other counties in Ireland. EVs’ market share in the location was almost at the national average level of take-up. Petrol hybrids also took more than 20% market share in each county of the Shannon area, while the Volkswagen ID.4 was on the top-ten list of both places too – seventh with 71 sales in Clare, eighth with 88 sales in Limerick.

DUBLIN AND EAST MIDLANDS

Electric Cars Dublin

Dublin = 53,954 sales (44.11% of nat. total); EV sales 20.32% of Dublin’s figures
Co. Kildare = 5,194 sales (4.25% of nat. total); EV sales 24.22% of Kildare’s figures
Co. Laois = 1,362 sales (1.11% of nat. total); EV sales 15.71% of Laois’ figures
Co. Longford = 534 sales (0.44% of nat. total); EV sales 13.48% of Longford’s figures
Co. Louth = 2,649 sales (2.17% of nat. total); EV sales 17.18% of Louth’s figures
Co. Meath = 4,167 sales (3.41% of nat. total); EV sales 25.1% of Meath’s figures
Co. Offaly = 1,312 sales (1.07% of nat. total); EV sales 12.73% of Offaly’s figures
Co. Westmeath = 1,655 sales (1.35% of nat. total); EV sales 16.56% of Westmeath’s figures
Co. Wicklow = 2,780 sales (2.27% of nat. total); EV sales 32.52% of Wicklow’s figures

Understandably, in the counties clustered around Dublin – which itself accounted for nearly half of all new-car sales in Ireland in 2023 – the take-up of EVs and hybrids seems to be gathering pace faster than in the rest of the country. But the EV honours do not go to Dublin county; despite the fact a chunky 10,966 new pure EVs were registered in Dublin last year, outstripping diesel, petrol cars still easily led the way there with 30.28% market share.

Instead, it falls on Co. Wicklow to fly the EV flag for Ireland. It is the only county in the entire country where EV sales outstripped all other fuel types – 904 new electric cars were sold there in 2023, representing 30.28% market share, easily beating petrol, petrol-electric non-plug-in hybrids and diesel. Plug-in petrol hybrids only marked 180 sales, so it would seem the people of Wicklow are far more prepared to go all-in on electric power, rather than opting for the ‘safety net’ of a plug-in hybrid.

Indeed, four of the top ten best-selling models in Wicklow were pure EVs: the Tesla Model Y in second; the Volkswagen ID.4 in third, the Hyundai Ioniq 5 in eighth and the MG4 in ninth. Also, both Tesla and MG featured on Wicklow’s list of most successful marques when neither carmaker are in Dublin’s top-ten list.

Tesla did find favour in Co. Kildare, though, ending up seventh on its list with 213 sales, the Model Y coming sixth on the model rundown. It wasn’t the top-selling EV in Kildare, however, as that honour went to the national champion, Volkswagen’s ID.4 – it shifted 172 units in 2023 in the location, representing 3.31% market share.

Most of the other counties in the area followed the national trend of petrol and diesel topping the sales charts, although both Co. Laois and Co. Longford saw diesel as their preferred fuel source – at least Laois had the ID.4 in eighth place and the Kia Niro (sold as a hybrid, plug-in hybrid or full EV) in ninth. In Co. Louth, buyers preferred petrol-hybrid power (non-plug-in) for their economical motoring, with 525 sales outperforming diesel.

After Co. Wicklow, Co. Meath seems to be adopting electrified vehicles to a greater degree than the national average. Some 1,046 EVs were registered there in 2023, only beaten by petrol, while petrol hybrids came in third. Diesels came in fourth.

WEST

Electric Cars Galway

Co. Galway = 4,813 sales (3.94% of nat. total); EV sales 17.2% of Galway’s figures
Co. Mayo = 2,057 sales (1.68% of nat. total); EV sales 12.01% of Mayo’s figures
Co. Roscommon = 1,141 sales (0.93% of nat. total); EV sales 10.78% of Wicklow’s figures

Lower-than-average take-up of full EVs is demonstrated in both Mayo and Roscommon, while both the latter county and Galway have diesel as their preferred form of motive power. That said, non-plug-in petrol hybrids beat petrol in Roscommon, while the Volkswagen ID.4 electric SUV featured in seventh on Galway’s annual sales chart and tenth in Roscommon. In Mayo, nine out of ten of the best-selling models were vehicles with either hybrid or electric versions in their ranges, with only the Volkswagen T-Roc proving popular despite being sold as just a petrol or a diesel vehicle.

NORTH-WEST

Co. Cavan = 1,251 sales (1.02% of nat. total); EV sales 12.95% of Cavan’s figures
Co. Donegal = 2,577 sales (2.11% of nat. total); EV sales 11.84% of Donegal’s figures
Co. Leitrim = 449 sales (0.37% of nat. total); EV sales 12.92% of Leitrim’s figures
Co. Monaghan = 935 sales (0.76% of nat. total); EV sales 10.37% of Monaghan’s figures
Co. Sligo = 1,118 sales (0.91% of nat. total); EV sales 16.19% of Sligo’s figures

In all five north-west counties, petrol and diesel took the top two spots, with diesel actually triumphant in three of them – Cavan, Leitrim and Monaghan. Petrol hybrids (non-plug-in) beat EVs in every county, too, although the Kia Niro was sixth in Donegal, while the Volkswagen ID.4 came in fifth in Sligo and eighth in Leitrim.

Interestingly, Monaghan completely bucked the national trends by having Spanish firm SEAT – perhaps the least electrified of the Volkswagen Group marques – as its preferred manufacturer, with the Ateca second in its best-selling models list, the Tarraco fourth and the Arona seventh. SEAT also featured in ninth on Sligo’s top ten list, with Mazda making a rare appearance in tenth.

The post County by county: how Ireland is adopting EVs and hybrids appeared first on Cartell Car Check.

Toyota, Ford, and Volkswagen dominate

One thing is abundantly clear from the figures: three brands are dominant in the Irish car market — Toyota, Ford and Volkswagen. As per Cartell.ie’s research, it’s actually two brands and two models that dominate.

In terms of manufacturers, it’s between Toyota and Volkswagen. Toyota is the most-registered brand in ten counties — Cavan, Clare, Cork, Donegal, Galway, Kerry, Limerick, May, Offaly and Tipperary. Volkswagen, meanwhile, is top dog in the other 16, taking Carlow, Dublin, Kildare, Kilkenny, Laois, Leitrim, Longford, Louth, Meath, Roscommon, Monaghan, Sligo, Waterford, Westmeath, Wexford and Wicklow.

It’s tempting to see an east-west divide between the two brands, with reliable and solid Toyota taking the more rural western half of the country, and Volkswagen the (arguably) more cosmopolitan east, but then with Volkswagen top in Sligo, and Toyota taking Cavan, that mostly puts that theory to bed.

Some will be surprised to learn that Ford does not take a top brand ranking in any county, but when it comes to individual models, it’s a different story. And in spite of Toyota’s impressive sales performance in Ireland in the past decade, the big-selling Corolla can only take a series of second places — in Clare, Cork, Kerry and Roscommon.

In all counties, the dominant pairing is the Volkswagen Golf and the Ford Focus, and it’s honours-even between these two titans, which take 13 counties each. The Golf is the most-registered car in Carlow, Dublin, Galway, Kildare, Leitrim, Longford, Louth, Meath, Monaghan, Offaly, Sligo, Westmeath and Wicklow. The Focus takes top spot in Cavan, Clare, Cork, Donegal, Kerry, Kilkenny, Laois, Limerick, Mayo, Roscommon, Tipperary, Waterford and Wexford.

Considering that the Ford Focus has not been a best-selling car in the new car market for some time now, it’s testament to both how well the Focus sold in the years prior, and to the fact that Irish car buyers tend to keep cars for longer and longer these days. Indeed, drill down into the lists of most-registered models and you’ll find that many out-of-production cars are still rolling around, such as the 662 examples of the Toyota Auris still registered in Cavan, with another 6,200 of those in Cork. There are also 1,089 Toyota Avensis still registered in Kilkenny, and another 869 in Laois.

SUVs and crossovers not dominant yet

For all that SUVs and crossovers currently dominate the new-car sales lists, the fact that those new sales have been relatively low since the mid-2000s, and the fact of buyers holding onto cars for longer means that only two have really put down a mark on Irish roads. Unsurprisingly, these are the Nissan Qashqai and the Hyundai Tucson.

In new car terms, both have been sales giants in the past decade, and while they don’t dominate the overall registrations to the same extent, they are starting to creep up the rankings. The Qashqai, for example, is the fifth-most registered car in Cavan, Clare, Dublin, Kerry, Limerick, Meath, Waterford and Wicklow, while it takes third place in Louth and Wexford. The Hyundai Tucson tends to be down in the lower half of each county’s league tables, but given its stellar sales performance since 2016, that surely cannot last.

County tastes

Clearly, given that the best-selling cars nationally will reappear locally, the top tens in each county are broadly predictable. The Volkswagen Golf, Ford Focus and Toyota Corolla tend to dominate the top three, while the rest of the top ten is generally taken up by the Volkswagen Passat, the Nissan Qashqai, the Skoda Octavia, the Ford Fiesta and the Toyota Yaris.

However, that does leave some space for individual tastes to shine through in each county. In Donegal, for example, it’s clear that many are shopping cross-border for their cars, as Vauxhall is the ninth-most registered brand. Meanwhile, the rise and rise of the premium car marques has left its fingerprints on Ireland’s registration stats — the Audi A4 breaks into the top ten in Carlow, Cavan, Clare, Galway, Kilkenny, Laois, Leitrim, Limerick, Longford, Mayo, Meath, Monaghan, Offaly, Roscommon, Sligo, Tipperary, Westmeath and Wexford. Meanwhile, the BMW 520 gets top-ten placings in Dublin and Kildare, perhaps unsurprisingly so.

Where luxury brands are concerned, it’s probably equally unsurprising that Dublin rules — there’s clearly money about as BMW, Audi and Mercedes occupy sixth, seventh and eighth places in the brands list.

There are other little regional variations, too. The Opel Astra, once a huge-seller in Ireland but a car whose sales tailed off in recent years, still takes seventh spot in Leitrim, tenth spot in Donegal, Sligo and Waterford, and ninth in Roscommon. The Volkswagen Polo is popular in Dublin and Louth, taking seventh and eighth spots in the registration charts, respectively, while Monaghan seems to be an outlier — the Opel Insignia is the tenth-most registered car there, yet it does not appear in the top ten anywhere else, while the SEAT Leon is the sixth-most registered, and again does not appear in any other county’s top ten.

Peugeot and Renault also do well overall, breaking into the top ten brands in many counties, but without managing to get a single model from either brand into the top ten most registered individual models in any county.

Long turnover times

What these lists of registrations most clearly show, however, is the length of time it takes to make a major impression on the national car park. The Hyundai Tucson, for example, has generally been the best-selling new car in Ireland for eight years now, but it’s — as noted — always in the lower half of county top tens for total registrations. There are no electric models on the list as yet, either, and the Qashqai and Tucson are the only SUVs that break into any county’s top ten. So for all the fuss and furore over both SUVs and electric cars, they still make up only a very small proportion of the cars most of us drive in most parts of Ireland. That will change, of course, but these numbers show it will take time.

The post Which cars are more common on each of our county’s roads? appeared first on Cartell Car Check.

1st prize

Justin McKeown – Mackessy Technology Ltd

Shane Luz – Mackessy Technology Ltd

Hugh Arnold – Vendor Finance Ltd

Ger Toher – Motion

92 Pts

2nd Prize

Daragh Leavy – Bluebell Motor Company

Graeme Leavy – Bluebell Motor Company

Mark Leavy – Bluebell Motor Company

Pieter Van Der Linde – Joe Norris Motors

89 Pts

3rd Prize

Tim Corbally – Kingstown Motors

Brian Mohan – Kingstown Motors

Joe Hutton – Hutton & Meade

Paul Higgins – Hutton & Meade

86 Pts

4th Prize

Bruce Ballagh – Broughan Motors

James Byrne – Broughan Motors

Alan Craven – Centre Point Autos

Ricky Mak – Motion

85 Pts

Winner of the long drive was David Dolan of Bright Motor Group.

The post Customer Golf Day appeared first on Cartell Car Check.

Some of the key policies announced include:

1. Vehicle Registration Tax (VRT): No increases in VRT for Electric Vehicles (EVs) or Internal Combustion Engine (ICE) vehicles.
2. VRT Relief on EVs: The existing relief, which was set to expire at the end of this year, has been extended until the end of 2025. This means that EVs valued at €40,000 will continue to be exempt from VRT, with a tapering relief for vehicles between €40,000 and €50,000.
3. Benefit-in-Kind (BIK): The €10,000 deduction applied to Original Market Value Deduction for specific vehicle categories is extended for 2024.
4. Extension of the EV tapering mechanism for BIK relief for Electric Vehicles until December 31, 2025, with reductions to €20,000 in 2026 and €10,000 in 2027.
5. Combined, these extensions create a 0% BIK threshold for EVs as follows: €45,000 in 2024, €35,000 in 2025, €20,000 in 2026, and €10,000 in 2027.
6. Other motor-related taxes: Excise on petrol and diesel fuels will increase by 50% on April 1, 2024, and again by 50% on August 1, 2024. The previously scheduled Carbon Tax increase took effect on October 11.
7. Accelerated Capital Allowances for EVs have been extended for three years.

Commenting on Budget 2024, SIMI Director General Brian Cooke said:
 “SIMI welcomes the measures announced in today’s Budget, in particular the extension of the current VRT and Benefit-In-Kind (BIK) reliefs for Electric Vehicles. In addition, the retention of the current VRT regime allied with the EV reliefs provides stability and clarity to the Motor Industry and motorists at a time of great uncertainty. The EV supports underline the Government’s commitment towards the electrification of the national fleet, which is of critical important as we strive to meet our emissions’ reduction goals. We still await clarification of the ongoing investment in both the charging infrastructure and the SEAI purchase grants, which are also vital to the ongoing success of the EV project.”

The post Budget 2024 – Key takeaways for motorists appeared first on Cartell Car Check.

This years route will take the cars through some of the southwest most scenic landscape and superior rally stages, be it seascape or mountain terrane or iconic stages that takes your fancy, it’s all included. On leaving the Gleneagle Hotel and head over Moll’s Gap into Sneem, on to O’Carroll’s Cove Beach Bar and Restaurant where we will stop for lunch. After lunch we will continue to Waterville and over Ballaghisheen Pass and Ballaghbeama Pass before returning to the Gleneagle Hotel via Moll’s Gap.

There will be an array of Perpetual and Special Awards on offer throughout the day, and also a raffle for numerous Spot prizes. 

Registration takes place on Saturday morning from 9am, a fee per car of €20 applies. Each car will receive a starter pack. 

Cartell.ie are delighted to continue our long term sponsorship of the event, alongside support from Opel Ireland and Casey Caravan Services.

The chosen charity for the event, Dogs for the Disabled, has been a partnership since 2008.

All Opel/ Vauxhall / Bedford / GM vehicles are welcome regardless of age. If you have an Opel or Vauxhall, polish it up and bring it out, you might even win an award or a spot prize.  

The post Ted’s Opel Vauxhall Run 2023 – Sat 12th Aug appeared first on Cartell Car Check.

To bypass these tariffs, some carmakers chose to set up shop in Ireland – as Ford did from 1917 to 1984 – while others such as Toyota, Renault and Fiat established assembly lines in the country, shipping cars into Ireland in knock-down form and putting them together on Irish soil.

However, when the EU Single Market came into effect at the beginning of 1993, the Irish government found itself being forced to abolish excise duty on cars entering Ireland from the EU. After much deliberation, the decision was taken to rename the tax to sidestep the EU law. Et voilá, VRT as we know it was born.

VRT – changes over time

Up until 2008, VRT was calculated according to three rates – one for cars with an engine capacity of 1,400cc and below, a second for engine capacities between 1,401- and 1,900cc, and a third for those above 1,900cc.

The rate charged varied from 22.5 to 30 per cent of the car’s value. As a new car, that was the retail price, but as an import it was the OMSP (Open Market Selling Price), which is the car’s value in Ireland – as determined by Revenue.

From 2008, however, the way VRT was calculated changed, taking CO2 emissions into account. Seven bands – A to G – were devised covering 14-36 per cent VRT depending on the emissions rating. This was overhauled in 2013 to include more bands (A1 to A4 and B1/B2), reflecting a widespread move to low-CO2 diesel cars.

Another notable change came into force in January 2021 expanding the system to include twenty emissions bands. The range of VRT rates widened, too, with just seven per cent payable at the low end (0-50g/km), but up to 41 per cent for cars emitting more than 190g/km.

At the same time, Revenue introduced a new ‘uplift’ scheme for the import of older cars with CO2 ratings on the outdated ‘NEDC’ system, meaning their effective rating was increased.

A new VRT table came into effect at the start of 2022 and is current at the time of writing:

How VRT is calculated now

The only difficulty with VRT estimation is the OMSP. Generally speaking, for a new car, the OMSP will be the retail price in Ireland. For an import, however, it’s not that simple, and it rarely coincides with the price you’ve paid for the car abroad.

By way of example, take the Skoda Octavia – a popular choice of car in both Ireland and the UK for several years. A 2023-reg estate model with just over 3,000 miles on the clock can be bought in the UK for £27,495.

In calculating the Octavia’s VRT, Revenue determined its OMSP to be €37,267. Its CO2 emissions place it in Band 12 for a VRT rate of 17.5 per cent. Therefore the VRT payable is simply 17.5 per cent of €37,267, or €6521.72.

Luckily Cartell.ie offers a useful service to help buyers calculate VRT and other import costs. 

Click here to access our VRT Calculator

The post How to calculate Vehicle Registration Tax (VRT) appeared first on Cartell Car Check.

The Society of the Irish Motor Industry (SIMI) has published the latest statistics on new vehicle registrations in Ireland for June. In comparison to June 2022, new car registrations increased by 39.0%, reaching a total of 2,994 registrations. Year to date, there has been an overall increase of 18.8%, with a total of 77,488 new car registrations, surpassing last year’s figure of 65,211.

Light Commercial Vehicles (LCVs) also experienced remarkable growth, with a 72.54% rise in June 2023 compared to the previous year. HGV registrations rose by 28.4% in June 2023, while HGVs experienced a 34.9% increase in registrations year to date. On the other hand, imported used cars saw a slight decline of 2.6% in June 2023. However, year to date imports have risen by 3.81%.

The most significant growth has been observed in electric vehicles, with 1,441 new registrations in June 2023 compared to 188 in June 2022, marking an astounding increase of 666.49%. From January to June 2023, a total of 14,307 new electric cars were registered, reflecting a 69.39% rise compared to the same period last year. The market share of electric vehicles, plug-in hybrids, and hybrids has been steadily increasing and now stands at 43.63% year to date. Petrol remains the dominant fuel type with a market share of 31.85%, followed by diesel at 21.87%. Electric vehicles hold a market share of 18.46%, while hybrids and plug-in electric hybrids account for 17.37% and 7.80%, respectively. These statistics illustrate the growing popularity of electric vehicles in Ireland’s car market.

Commenting on the trends, Brian Cooke, SIMI Director General said “The new car market performed strongly in June with registrations 39% ahead of the same month last year. While year to date new car registrations are still 4% behind pre-COVID 2019, the gap is closing every month, aided by fulfilment of 2022 orders and improved new vehicle supply. June in particular saw a significant boost in electric car sales, with 1,441 registrations during the month, in comparison to 188 units in June 2022, no doubt as a result of EV buyers wanting to avail of the full SEAI Grant of €5,000, which is to be reduced from July 1st. Year to date the EV market has exceeded 14,000 cars, an increase of 69% on last year. It should be highlighted that there still is a significant basket of incentive for EV buyers, including ongoing purchase and home charger grant support, VRT relief for many EVs, as well as low annual road tax. These supports, along with an increasing number of EV models coming to market, should ensure strong new car activity as we enter the 232 registration plate sales period. Going forward we need to maintain these incentives as well as an attractive BIK incentive for businesses, if we want to build on the momentum that is clearly there in the EV market.” 

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The study found that buyers are increasingly turning to electric vehicles (EVs), with EV transactions, hybrids (PEVs), and plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs) seeing a 1.7% increase. Both petrol and diesel models have correspondingly declined by the same percentage (1.7%), with petrol models showing a larger fall.

Growth Breakdown by Fuel Type

The overall trend by fuel type in the used market between 2021 and 2022 indicated a 1.1% rise in popularity for hybrid vehicles. Increases in the numbers of PHEVs and EVs were also noted, with a corresponding 1% decrease in demand for petrol and 0.7% diesel models[LS1] .

Performance

The study also looked at the performance of electric vehicles in the used market by analysing the average 0-100 Km/h times for electric vehicles compared to both petrol and diesel vehicles. The results showed that electric vehicles generally performed better than their diesel and petrol equivalents for most car types, with the exception of convertibles where there was little difference.

Imports

In its analysis, Cartell.ie also examined the fuel types of imported vehicles between 2018 and 2022. Despite increasing demand, the results indicate a significant decrease in the percentage of electric vehicles imported to Ireland during this period [LS2] (35.1% in 2018 decreased to 10.9% in 2022, while all other fuel types remained relatively stable. Interestingly, the largest percentage (60.7% in 2020)) of overall imports during this period were plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs[LS3] ).

Overall, the study indicates a shift in the used car market towards electric and hybrid vehicles, with electric vehicle types showing strong performance values and offering a lot to the used car market.

Ross Conlon, CEO Cartell.ie says: “The number of petrol and diesel models in recent used car transactions remains high, however we are seeing an overall decline in the percentage of transactions involving these fuel types. In parallel, we have seen an increase in the volume of transactions for hybrid, electric, and plug-in hybrid fuel types. PHEVs have been consistently the most popular import throughout the entire period. The performance of electric vehicles has been impressive, and they are giving other aspirational types a run for their money. It is clear that EVs have a lot to offer the market.”

*For this study Cartell.ie considered all used car transactions in the used market, irrespective of transaction type (private-to-private, trade-to-private, private-to-trade etc), for each of the years beginning in 2018 and ending in 2022.

Table 1 Movement in Used Car Transactions by fuel type 2021 to 2022 (Source: Cartell Carstat)

Table 2 Average Performance of Electric Vehicles (0 to 100 Km/h) by Body Type in the used car market 2018 to 2023 compared to diesel and petrol aspirated engines (Source: Cartell Carstat)

Table 3 Average Performance of Electric Vehicles (top speed in Km/h) by Body Type in the used car market 2018 to 2023 compared to diesel and petrol aspirated engines (Source: Cartell Carstat)

In Performance of Electric Vehicles (0 to 100 Km/h) and performance of Electric Vehicles (Top Speed in KM/h) by Body Type in the used car market 2018 to 2023 compared to diesel and petrol aspirated engines the claimed vehicle sprint times and top speed indicators are sourced by Jato Code for each vehicle in each category and then the results are averaged.

Table 4 Imports by fuel type 2018 to 2022 (Source: Cartell Carstat)

The post Used Car Market Goes Green: Electric Vehicles Gaining Popularity Over Petrol and Diesel Models appeared first on Cartell Car Check.

This is a complex issue, but it’s an increasingly prevalent one. According to history checking service Cartell.ie, the number of cars being offered for sale with outstanding finance remaining is on the rise. If a car on sale is two years old, according to Cartell’s figures, it has a 35 per cent chance of still having money owed on it. For three-year-old cars, the rate is still 32 per cent. 

The chance of a car having outstanding finance on it then tails off — at four years old it falls to 20 per cent, which is obviously less but it still means that one in five cars on sale at that age are still subject to a finance agreement. When you consider how many cars you might look at in the course of shopping for a second-hand car, it becomes pretty obvious just how significant an issue it is. 

But why is it an issue? Well, simply put, a seller is not supposed to sell you a car with outstanding finance owed. Whether it’s a PCP deal, or Hire Purchase, until the final payment has been made, the car is not legally the property of the person using it, and therefore they have no right to sell it. In fact, the only time it’s legal to sell on a car for which you still owe money is if that finance was in the form of an unsecured personal loan from a bank or credit union — in that instance the person selling the car does own it, and the car isn’t specifically legally tied to the outstanding amount.

In all other cases, though, technically the real owner of the car is the finance company providing the loan (which is really what a PCP or HP deal is) for the car’s purchase, and if you’ve bought that car — and the previous owner doesn’t clear the amount owing — then that finance company can come looking for the car and can seize it.

At that point, you essentially have no legal comeback — the car was and still is the property of the finance company, and therefore whether you have a receipt or invoice for the purchase, technically the sale was illegal and invalid, and therefore the finance company is simply taking back what’s rightfully theirs. Your money, the cash you spent on the car, is then forfeit — you’ve no legal right to the car, so no-one else is liable for the money you spent on it. It’s the ultimate, and most painful, form of caveat emptor — buyer beware. 

What can you do if this happens? Well, you can appeal to the finance company in the first instance. If you can show that you bought the car in good faith, then they may act with some leniency. Equally, if you can track down the person who sold you the car, you should demand your money back from them — preferably via your solicitor rather than getting into any personal confrontation — as they never had the legal right to sell the car in the first place. If neither of those appeals work, then it’s time to lawyer-up and get ready to bring the person who sold you the car, whether they’re a private individual or a dealer, to court.

Obviously, that’s a hugely stressful process and it’s better not to find yourself in that situation in the first place. It’s definitely a good idea to use a history checking service, such as Cartell’s, to look into the background of any car you want to buy before you actually write the cheque. Those history checking services will usually uncover whether a specific car is still the subject of a finance agreement. 

Clearly, there are some people selling cars who, for whatever reason, are doing so to raise the funds to honestly and diligently clear the outstanding amount, but even if that is the case they are in a very legally grey area where they are technically selling a car that does not belong to them yet. If they are honest, upstanding people and immediately clear off their debt once they’ve sold the car to you, then all is well but it’s far better not to get yourself into that kind of setup in the first place, as you are ultimately then relying on the good will of others when a substantial amount of money is at stake. 

Make sure you carry out a Car History Check on every used car you are thinking of buying to see if it has outstanding finance. Simply enter the registration number below to get started!

The post What happens if you buy a car with outstanding finance? appeared first on Cartell Car Check.

With that in mind, here are the most important factors to consider as part of a
vehicle history check on Cartell.ie:

Outstanding finance

One crucial aspect that not many people are aware of is that if you buy a car with outstanding finance, it’s not legally yours until the final payment has been made. Regardless of whether you’ve purchased it in good faith, the car remains the property of the lender who financed the purchase. If the original PCP holder defaults on their payments, the lender is legally entitled to repossess the vehicle, leaving the innocent second buyer with little to no recourse, especially if they’ve bought the car from a private seller. Never buy a car with outstanding finance; a vehicle history check can help ensure you don’t.

Mileage

Most of us have heard of the old trick known as ‘clocking,’ where a seller tampers with the odometer to make the car appear to have covered fewer miles than it actually has, thereby increasing its price. A vehicle history check from Cartell sources multiple mileage records from numerous sources. A buyer can then compare the figure with the car’s odometer reading to check for discrepancies. If there is a discrepancy, it’s a strong indication that the car has been clocked and that you’re dealing with a dishonest seller. If so, walk away.

Has the car been written-off?

When a car is involved in an accident, the insurance company can deem it a write-off if the car is either too irreparably damaged to be safely returned to the road or if the cost of repairs exceeds the car’s value. In Ireland, there are four categories of write-offs: Category A, B, C, and D. Category A and B write-offs are cars so badly damaged that they must be scrapped. Category C and D write-offs are cases where the insurance company has determined that the repair costs exceed the car’s value, but the car can be legally allowed back on the road. A vehicle history check may inform a prospective buyer if a car has ever been written off in Ireland or the UK, which is crucial information

While it’s not necessarily a deal-breaker to buy a former write-off, it pays to be cautious. For example, an insurer may refuse to cover a previously written-off car or charge such a high premium that it may not be worth buying. It’s essential to ensure that a car has been properly repaired after significant damage, as a
poorly repaired car may not perform as it should in a crash. This is why buyers of write-offs need to be extra diligent when inspecting a used car before purchase. If a seller does not disclose that a car is a former write-off, it could be a sign they’re being dishonest. If they’re hiding that fact, what else could they be concealing about the car?

Number of owners

At the time of writing, there are 18,260 cars in Ireland that have had 10 or more registered owners. In fact, according to Cartell’s data, there’s an Audi A6 somewhere in Ireland with 43 registered owners! A car history check will reveal how many owners a car has had. While this may not be vital information, it is
worth knowing. Be realistic in your expectations for an older car with a higher number of owners. However, if you’re satisfied that the car is in sound condition and as described, there’s no particular reason to avoid a vehicle with a high number of owners. Again, the importance of knowing the number of owners comes back to the honesty of the seller. If they claim that a car has had one or two owners from new, but the history check reveals it has had several more, it means they’re being dishonest. If they’re lying about this, what other falsehoods could they be telling?

Was it ever used as a taxi?

Taxis typically have hard lives and often rack up high mileages, usually in urban environments. Taxi use can impose significant wear and tear on a car—think worn clutches, lots of crawling through traffic, and loads of passengers, plus that smell in the back you can’t quite figure out. Ideally, you don’t want a car that’s
had a previous life as a taxi. However, if you know it has and still decide to take the risk, that decision is yours. It’s important to know for sure, though, and a vehicle history check can reveal whether or not a car has had a demanding working life.

The post Car History Check: What to look out for? appeared first on Cartell Car Check.

In response to the escalating fuel prices, the Government took action in March of the preceding year by reducing the excise duty on fuel. This resulted in a significant reduction of 21 cents per litre for petrol and a 16-cent cut for diesel. However, these reductions are now being rolled back, with the changes taking effect from tonight.

Although the excise increase will become legally binding at midnight, fuel retailers are not immediately required to adjust their retail prices. This is due to the fact that excise charges are imposed on the fuel supplies purchased by filling stations, and the existing forecourt supplies have already been subjected to the lower excise rate.

Further excise increases are planned for September 1st and October 31st, as part of the ongoing process to fully restore the fuel excise levels to those of early 2022.

The post Petrol and diesel prices set to rise following excise duty increase appeared first on Cartell Car Check.

Mileage is a crucial factor to consider when buying a used car. Dishonest sellers may try to alter the car’s odometer reading to make it appear as if it has covered fewer miles than it has. This practice, known as clocking, can help them sell the car for a higher price. However, a car’s true mileage is recorded in a national database at the time of its NCT. A vehicle history check from Cartell.ie can access this database to confirm the car’s mileage at the time of the last NCT. By comparing this figure with the car’s odometer reading, you can detect any discrepancies and avoid buying a car that has been clocked.

Another important thing to look for in a vehicle history check is outstanding finance. If a car has finance outstanding on it, it’s not legally yours until the final payment has been made. This means that the lender who financed the purchase can repossess the vehicle if the original PCP holder defaults on their payments, leaving you with no recourse. Therefore, it’s crucial to ensure that the car you’re buying has no outstanding finance. A vehicle history check can help you identify this issue and avoid buying a car with a financial encumbrance.

Knowing whether a car has ever been written off is also essential. Insurance companies may deem a car to be a write-off if it’s too damaged to be safely returned to the road or if the cost of repairs exceeds the car’s value. There are four types of write-offs in Ireland, with Category A and B write-offs being too damaged to be scrapped, while Category C and D write-offs are repairable but may have some residual damage. A vehicle history check will tell you if a car has ever been written off, and this information is crucial in making an informed purchase decision.

The number of previous owners is another aspect to consider. While it’s not a crucial piece of information, it’s good to know how many owners the car has had. However, if you’re satisfied with the car’s condition and history, there’s no particular reason to avoid buying a car with a high number of owners. Dishonest sellers may lie about the number of previous owners, so it’s important to check this information in a vehicle history report.

Finally, it’s important to know whether a car has ever been used as a taxi or hackney. Taxi and hackney cars often have high mileages and experience wear and tear due to their constant use. They may also have some unusual odors and stains that may be difficult to remove. While it’s ideal to avoid cars with previous taxi or hackney use, if you decide to take the risk, it’s important to know for sure and make an informed decision.

In conclusion, a vehicle history check is an essential step in the used car buying process. It can reveal critical information about a car’s past, including its mileage, outstanding finance, write-off status, number of previous owners, and previous use as a taxi or hackney. By conducting a thorough vehicle history check, you can avoid buying a car with hidden issues and make a more informed purchase decision.

The post Essential Factors to Consider in a Comprehensive Car History Check appeared first on Cartell Car Check.

Hyundai in top position

Cartell.ie looked at the numbers of EVs and PHEVs (cars only) sold by manufacturer in the year to date and the results show Hyundai is the top selling brand in this combined segment. Volkswagen, the leader when we last looked at these results in October 2022, moves to fourth position overall. Tesla, a premium brand, does not feature at all in the top-10 this year so far. The changing fortunes of both VW and Tesla in this segment (in the year to date) are two of the notable results from this analysis but things may change as the year progresses.  

Table 1 Numbers of EVs/PHEVs sold by manufacturer Jan to February* 2023 (Source: Cartell, Carstat)

*All results for February may not yet have been recorded

Hyundai IONIQ 5 making a big impression in 2023

The top selling EV model is the IONIQ 5 making a huge impression with buyers. Cartell.ie looked at the total number of EVs and PHEVs sold by model in the year to date and found the top best-selling model so far this year is the IONIQ 5 with the KONA, a model also released by Hyundai, also comfortably in the top-5 best-selling models for the year-to-date. The Kia Niro occupies second position.  

Continues …

Table 2 Numbers of EVs/PHEVs sold by model Jan to February* 2023 (Source: Cartell Catstat)

* All results for February may not yet have been recorded

Imported EVs and PHEVs

Cartell.ie looked at the most popular imported EVs and PHEVs (cars only) in the year to date in 2023 and found that BMW leads the way with both the number one and number two spots – the 530e being the most popular imported model this year so far in this combined segment.

Table 3 Most popular imported models in the combined EV/PHEV segments Jan to February* 2023 (Source: Cartell Carstat)

* All results for February may not yet have been recorded

All-time popular models in the EV/PHEV segment

Finally, Cartell.ie looked at the overall picture to see which models are currently the all-time most popular in terms of the live fleet in this combined segment (EV/PHEV). The results show that the Nissan Leaf is still the most popular vehicle on Irish roads in this combined segment.

Table 4 All-time most popular car models sold in EV/PHEV segment live fleet (Source: Cartell Carstat

Table 5 All-time most popular manufacturers in EV/PHEV segment live fleet (Source: Cartell Carstat)

Ross Conlon, CEO CarsIreland.ie and Group Director New Business at Mediahuis Ireland says:

“The IONIQ 5 is comfortably the most popular car in this combined EV/PHEV segment replacing the Volkswagen ID 4 as the most popular model with Plug-In electric capacity, when the market is viewed over the first few weeks of this year. Still though, in terms of the overall numbers in the fleet, the most popular model in this combined segment is the Nissan Leaf which proved to be hugely popular with buyers. Interestingly, when we look at the imported market for the same segment BMW are leading the way with both the 530e and 330e by far the most popular imported models and BMW also lead the way overall in terms of the numbers of its vehicles in this combined segment in the live fleet.”

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In the case of four-year-old vehicles checked in 2021 there was a 20% chance of a vehicle from that year being offered for sale with finance outstanding based on checks on Cartell.ie in the year gone by, but, like other key years the four-year- old-car level of finance has increased – to 21% this year.

Older vehicles are also showing relatively high levels of finance: a six-year-old vehicle, for example, shows 16% with outstanding finance in 2022 whereas the comparable figure last year, in 2021, was lower – 15%.

Ross Conlon, CEO CarsIreland.ie and Group Director New Business at Mediahuis Ireland, says: “We are witnessing a market correction: the overall percentages of vehicles offered for sale with finance outstanding in key registration years has risen again since the declines recorded in 2020. Buyers should we aware that there is now a one-in-three chance that a vehicle three-years-old or less is for sale with outstanding finance.”

“Buyers are strongly advised to be cautious in the market as you cannot take good title in the asset until the final payment has been paid to the financial institution. This means you may be buying a huge problem.”

The reasons for the increase seen between 2021 and 2022 is likely due to increased market activity, opening up of markets since the pandemic shut down.

The post Number of Vehicles with Outstanding Finance on the Rise appeared first on Cartell Car Check.

Taking a sample size of 5,000 vehicles Cartell looked at the retail price of each vehicle, assuming average mileage, in November 2020, and used this as a control to test the value of each of the same vehicles in 2021 and in 2022 by running all three years through the Cartell Price Guide (CPG) a vehicle valuation service available to users of its service.

Among the results was a 161 Volkswagen Passat diesel, which was worth €14,900 in 2020 and is now worth €19,500 and a 181 Renault Captur worth €16,950 in 2021 which is now worth €18,400.

The results show that, on average, the year-over-year increase stands at 7.78 per cent. This is a decline on the rate of increase between the years 2020 and 2021 which stood at 15.2%. It should be noted this is the price difference between the various vehicles today compared with the same price for each respective vehicle in the previous two years. Cartell used actual vehicles which, although they were one year older, or, two years older, actually appreciated over their equivalent 2020 value.

Ross Conlon, CEO CarsIreland.ie and Group Director New Business at Mediahuis Ireland says:

“These results show that vehicle values in the used market have continued to push upwards since we last published results in 2021. While the rate of increase has declined it is still a significant event that values have risen – cars are considered a depreciating asset after all. While microchip shortages appear to be levelling out there are still issues around availability of new vehicles and this is consequently pushing values up in the residual market. We expect to see the rate of increase decline further over the next 12 months.”

The post Average Car Worth 8% More Now Than Last Year appeared first on Cartell Car Check.

Cartell’s latest data can reveal has a significant increase in overall levels of car finance in Ireland for key years. From a sample of over 5,906 vehicles offered for sale and checked via the Cartell.ie website in the first 6 months of 2022, the figures show that a 1-year-old vehicle now has a 32 percent possibility of being on finance, up 4 per cent for the equivalent figure 12 months ago.

Readers will recall that last year the comparable figures showed a decline in car financing level in Ireland, over those recorded in 2020, which we attributed to a slow-down caused by the pandemic. The market is clearly firmly out of this environment and finance levels have risen significantly since July of 2021.

Car FInance Ireland: Older Vehicles

In the case of two-year-old vehicles (2020) the levels of vehicles offered for sale with finance outstanding is 36%. This means there is still more than a one-in-three chance of a two-year-old vehicle being offered for sale with finance outstanding and the overall level has risen from 32% last year.

In the case of four-year-old vehicles checked last year (2017) there was a 20% chance of a vehicle from that year being offered for sale with finance outstanding based on checks on Cartell.ie in the year gone by, but, like other key years the four-year-old-car level of finance has increased – to 22% this year.

Graph 1: Percentages of Vehicles with Outstanding Finance by Registration Year checked on Cartell.ie (Source: Carstat, Cartell.ie)

Older vehicles are also showing relatively high levels of finance: a six-year-old vehicle, for example, shows 17% with outstanding finance in 2022 whereas the comparable figure last year, in 2021, was lower – 16%.

Warning On Buying Cars With Finance Owed

Ross Conlon, CEO CarsIreland.ie and Group Director New Business at Mediahuis Ireland, says: “The overall percentages of vehicles offered for sale with finance outstanding in key registration years has risen since the declines we witnessed last year. Buyers should we aware that there is now a one-in-three chance that a vehicle three-years-old or less is for sale with outstanding finance.”

“Buyers are strongly advised to be cautious in the market as you cannot take good title in the asset until the final payment has been paid to the financial institution. This means you may be buying a huge problem.”

Cartell speculated last year on why there had been a noticeable drop in finance levels when we compared the years 2020 and 2021. The reasonss for the increase seen between 2021 and 2022 is likely due to increased market activity, opening up of markets since the pandemic shut down; also the lack of availability of new cars owing to microchip shortages may have increased car-finance in the residual market.

Cartell.ie is Ireland’s first and most comprehensive automotive data supplier providing Car History Checks to consumers and dealers. Launched in 2006, Cartell.ie is the automotive data expert providing tailored vehicle intelligence data to insurers, financiers, parts suppliers, vehicle manufacturers, and all sectors of the automotive industry. We supply data for multiple European countries such as, UK & Ireland, Spain, Portugal, The Netherlands, Malta and more. A three star Cartell car history check provides information on if a car has finance outstanding on it or not.

The post Car Finance Ireland – Number of Cars with Finance Owed Increasing appeared first on Cartell Car Check.

Graph 1: Size of Private Fleet (incl. imports) 1999 to 2022, 1^stMarch and 1^st August each year (Source: Cartell Carstat)

Age of the Private Fleet gets older

Cartell.ie can also report on the age of the private fleet. Our latest data reveals that the age is increasing as owners hold onto their vehicles longer during the pandemic. The overall picture shows the age of the private fleet, both native and imported, has returned to a level last seen in May 2016. This coincides with a drop in used car transactions in the market every year since 2017 a factor which tends to point towards owners holding onto their vehicles longer.

Cartell.ie tracked the age of the fleet (both native fleet and imported fleet) on the first day of each month between January 1999 and May 2022. Between May 2021 and May 2022 the fleet as a whole has advanced in age by 66 days from an average of 3162 days to 3228 days (+66 days). For the equivalent period the imported fleet has also increased significantly from 3271 days to 3444 days (+173 days). The average age of a private car in Ireland, both native and imported, is now 8.8 years. The average age of an imported car in Ireland stands at 9.4 years. An indigenous Irish vehicle’s average age is currently 8.6 years. So while levels of car ownership have increased in Ireland so too has the length of time that people are holding onto their cars.

Graph 2: Age of Private Fleet, Native fleet, Imports 1999 to 2022 (Source: Cartell Carstat)

Trends in Car Ownership and Age of Fleet in Ireland

Ross Conlon, CEO CarsIreland.ie and Group Director New Business at Mediahuis Ireland, says:

“Cartell have been tracking the age of the fleet since its inception in 2006 and this data is very useful for the market in terms of assessing what age of vehicle the individual buyer is pursuing and in viewing shifts in the market place. The increase seen in the age of the private fleet year-over-year has been particularly notable – especially the imported fleet which had increased by almost half-a-year in 12 months – this is what is dragging the overall age upwards. The size of the fleet also hit an all-time high last August recording almost 2.5 million vehicles.”

The post Car Ownership In Ireland: Private Fleet Size Hits Record High appeared first on Cartell Car Check.

Table 1: Most Popular Models in the Irish fleet (Private Used and Imported YTD 2022) (Source: Cartell Carstat)

The results show that the top two models, in terms of actual purchases of private vehicles in the Irish fleet, used and imported, in the year to date in 2022 were the VW Golf and the Ford Focus. And the equivalent top-two on the CarsIreland.ie list, in other words, those vehicles most-searched by a prospective buyer were likewise the VW Golf and the Ford Focus. However, when we looked at the overall most-searched-marques on Carsireland the results showed that both Audi and BMW entered the top-3 each constituting 9% of the overall number of searches on the site so far in 2022.

These results highlight both the popularity of the Golf and Focus end-to-end in the sales cycle from initial search by the potential buyer through to a completed transaction for the vehicle, and, interestingly, that potential buyers are eyeing up more exclusive marques in the early stages of their search – Audi and BMW.  This shows that significant volumes of searches early-on in the buying cycle may be aspirational or may be indicative of the prospective buyer starting off his or her search in the marketplace by focusing on the higher-end of the market, considering values, before ultimately deciding to purchase in a different segment. Evidence of this trend can be seen further down the list where the BMW 5 series, the Audi A4, Audi A6, BMW 3 Series and Mercedes Benz E Class all appear in the top-10 on the list of most-searched vehicles on CarsIreland.ie in 2022.

Table 2: Most Popular Marques Searched on CarsIreland (2022) (Source: CarsIreland intelligence)

Table 3: Most Popular Models Searched on CarsIreland (2022) (Source: CarsIreland intelligence)

Ross Conlon, CEO CarsIreland.ie and Group Director New Business at Mediahuis Ireland, commented:

“These results show, on the Cartell.ie side, that buyers are opting for similar vehicles to last year: the Golf and the Focus again occupy the top two spots. However, earlier in the purchase-cycle prospective buyers are opting to consider other vehicles: the CarsIreland.ie results do not match like-for-like with the Cartell.ie results – Audi and BMW feature in the top-3 – tending to show purchasers are possibly initially considering what their budget can stretch to or are simply viewing aspirational vehicles before settling on a different purchase.”

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Hyundai Electric Cars Most Popular

Cartell.ie looked at the numbers of EVs sold by manufacturer in the year to date and the results show Hyundai has outsold its rivals, with Kia in second position and Volkswagen (the leader in our equivalent analysis last year) now in third. Tesla, the premium brand, has sold 800 vehicles during the period under review, leaving them in fifth overall.

Table 1 Numbers of EVs sold by manufacturer Jan to April* 2022 (Source: Cartell Catstat)

*April figure is for an incomplete month

Hyundai Ioniq 5 EV model making a big impression

The top selling EV model is the Hyundai Ioniq 5 , making a huge impression with buyers. Cartell.ie looked at the total number of EVs sold by model in the year to date and found the top best-selling model so far this year is the Hyundai Ioniq 5 followed by the Nissan Leaf and VW ID 4. The Tesla Model 3 is currently in 4^th position.

It is worth bearing in mind though that supply issues may be having an effect on manufacturer market share and the related number of electric cars sold in Ireland. Consumers can only purchase what electric cars are available to them at a specific moment in time and some manufacturers may be impacted more by global supply chain issues than others.

Table 2 Numbers of EVs sold by model Jan to April* 2022 (Source: Cartell Catstat)

*April figure is for an incomplete month

EVs Change of ownership

Cartell.ie also report that compared with their petrol and diesel counterparts, owners of EVs tend to hold onto their vehicle longer. Cartell looked at all private cars in the fleet, all fuel types, to consider ownership changes. The company found that 75 per cent of EVs registered are still on their first owner – this contrasts with a figure of 29 per cent for the private fleet as a whole.

Overall numbers of EVs

Finally Cartell.ie looked at the overall number of EVs sold in Ireland between January and March each year for the last 4 years. In 2022, 7078 EVs were sold in the period under consideration: more than treble the equivalent figure for last year over the same period.

Table 3 Overall Numbers of EVs sold in Ireland Jan to March 2022, 2021, 2020, 2019 (Source: Cartell Catstat)

John Byrne, Cartell says:

“EV sales are definitely taking off: we have seen a trebling of new electric car sales in Ireland so far in 2022 over last year’s numbers. In terms of models the Ioniq 5 is proving the most popular with consumers so far this year. Hyundai lead the way with Kia close behind. Volkswagen, which was on top when we ran the equivalent analysis last year, are still close to the summit with over 1,000 EV sales in 2022. Tesla has sold 800 EVs in the period under consideration with the Model 3 proving their most popular model constituting 592 of those new car sales.”

Cartell.ie is Ireland’s first and most comprehensive automotive data supplier providing Car History Checks to consumers and dealers. Launched in 2006, Cartell.ie is the automotive data expert providing tailored vehicle intelligence data to insurers, financiers, parts suppliers, vehicle manufacturers, and all sectors of the automotive industry. We supply data for multiple European countries such as, UK & Ireland, Spain, Portugal, The Netherlands, Malta and more. 

CarsIreland.ie in an online classified marketplace for the motor industry in Ireland. The site is a must for users looking to purchase a new or used car with more motor dealers than any other platform. It specialises in providing top class websites and infrastructure to facilitate seamless online shopping and selling with a focus on excellent customer service to both consumers and traders.

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However the fact remains that Ireland has still not yet regulated for written-off vehicles. As far back as July 2016 it was reported in the media that the then Minister for Transport, Shane Ross, brought legislation to cabinet which would compel insurers to notify his Department of Category A and Category B write-offs.

John Byrne Legal & Public Relations Manager with Cartell.ie said at the time:

It’s welcoming to see how seriously the ABI are taking the issue of write-offs which are deemed repairable and can return to the roads in the UK: they are moving the focus away from the Pre-Accident Value of the vehicle and looking instead at the damage caused: whether its structural or non-structural. In Ireland there are currently moves to regulate for the more serious write-off categories, Category A and Category B, which can never return to the roads, but we should be looking at these UK moves. Always do a car history check when importing a used car.”

The 2022 Prime Time programme confirmed that Cartell’s data managed to identify the three vehicles with a UK write-off history highlighted in the broadcast and that our report would have flagged the problem. Therefore worried motorists are advised to take out a full car history check should they be concerned about this issue as a first step in mitigating the risk associated with imports of potentially defective vehicles.

In May 2016, in the wake of a previous RTE Prime Time investigates programme, Cartell.ie released figures which showed that 10.75% of all UK imports into Ireland in a 6-month period in 2015 had been written-off in the UK prior to import and taxation of the vehicle in Ireland. Of those 1,545 vehicles (59.42%) had been categorised as Cat D in the UK and 980 as Category C (37.69%).

At present a voluntary system of notification is in place but for years Cartell.ie has called for regulation which will place the procedure on a statutory footing.

Cartell set up the Motor Insurance Anti-Fraud and Theft Register (MIAFTR) which records written-off vehicles. You can check MIAFTR via a Cartell Car Check.

The current ABI system divides insurance write-offs essentially into 4 categories:

Category A: Scrap only – The vehicle has not been repaired following extreme damage. It was deemed too damaged to be repairable with little or no salvageable parts.

Category B: The bodyshell should have been crushed.  The vehicle has not been repaired following significant damage. It was deemed too damaged to be repairable however did have salvageable parts.

Category C: This vehicle was repairable, but the repair costs exceeded the Pre-Accident Value (PAV) of the vehicle. The insurer chose not to repair for economic reasons.

Category D: This vehicle was repairable, but while the repair costs were significant compared to the PAV of the vehicle the costs did not exceed the PAV. The insurer chose not to repair for economic reasons.

The Association of British Insurers (ABI) Code of Practice for the Categorisation of Motor Vehicle Salvage (COP) was introduced in March 2007 as a voluntary code to assess whether a damaged car can be repaired or salvaged for parts, or whether it should be destroyed.

In 2015 an extensive review of the COP was initiated involving multiple stakeholders including insurers, vehicle manufacturers, affected government departments and agencies, the Police, the vehicle leasing industry and the salvage industry.

The new Code of Practice for the Categorisation of Motor Vehicle Salvage came into being on 1^st October 2017.

Cartell would like to see similar regulation come info force in Ireland and we will continue to draw attention to this issue until the necessary legal protections for Irish motorists are put in place.

Importing A Used Car? Write-Off Category Changes Explained

Vehicle History experts Cartell.ie reported that as of Wednesday 21^st June 2017 the Association of British Insurers (ABI) in the UK are no longer using Category C and Category D vehicle write-off categories in their new Voluntary Code of Practice (COP) for the industry.

Following a long review the new system will retain the same Category A and Category B categorisations. However Category C and Category D designations will no longer be used. The new system will focus on first establishing the level of damage to a vehicle from a technical perspective, before making any commercial decision relating to the Pre-Accident Value (PAV) of the vehicle. This has huge consequences for an Irish buyer as the level of damage sustained will now be more evident. The new categorisation system will be as follows:

Category A Scrap– This vehicle is deemed not suitable to be repaired. Must be crushed without any parts being removed.

Category B Break – The vehicle is deemed not suitable to be repaired. Usable parts can be recycled.

Category S: Structural Repairable – Repairable vehicle which has sustained damage to any part of the structural frame or chassis and the insurer/ self-insured owner has decided not to repair the vehicle.

Category N: Non-Structural Repairable – Repairable vehicle which has not sustained damage to the structural frame or chassis and the insurer/ self-insured owner has decided not to repair the vehicle.

These changes have been made to standardise the codes by the level of damage sustained rather than by repair cost. Structural damage is described as repairable damage to the vehicle that affects the main welded or otherwise permanently assembled vehicle body.

Further, from October 2019, salvaged vehicles can only be categorised by an Appropriately Qualified Person (AQP).

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Therefore it’s an exciting time on the electric vehicle market. Mercedes-Benz recently announced that their new EQS will do an astounding 731km on a single charge. Unfortunately the six figure price tag puts it beyond the reach of most people at a whopping €177.83 per kilometre of range but big developments in battery technology are trickling down to more mainstream brands and affordable models. Below we take a look at some of the best value electric vehicle (EV) options on the market when it comes to purchase price and range.

Top 10 Best Value EVs for range in Ireland

10. Kia e-Niro

Starting from: €41,250

WLTP range: 452km

Price per kilometre range (€/Km) €90.65

The Kia e-Niro first burst on to the scene in 2019 promising to bring long range electric motoring to the masses with its 455 kilometre range. Despite its compact crossover label it managed to tempt a huge number of customers into their first EV thanks to its spacious cabin and conventional styling. The Niro is also available as a plug-in hybrid and a facelifted model is due later this year.

9. Kia e-Soul

Starting from: €39,730

WLTP range: 452km

€/Km: €87.89

The Kia e-Soul is the funky older sibling to the e-Niro and despite its rather unconventional look, has managed to secure itself a cult following not just in Ireland but around the world with its practical, boxy shape and deceptively spacious interior. While it does have a slightly smaller boot, the almost identical range and reasonable price tag has made it a popular choice on both the new and used market.

8. Toyota BZ4X

Starting from: €43,402

WLTP range: 500km

€/Km: €86.80

A new contender for 2020, Toyota’s first fully electric car promises an incredible range of 500km in the BZ4X. The starting price of €43,402 makes it a good value proposition given the impressive distance it can go on a single charge. Sharing similar dimensions with the Toyota RAV4 SUV, the compact crossover boasts a generous boot capacity of 452 litres. The first orders will arrive in showrooms this June.

7. Peugeot e208

Starting from: €28,730  

WLTP range: 340km

€/Km: €84.50

The Peugeot e-208 is one of the best value electric vehicles currently available in Ireland. With its compact dimensions, the stylish supermini is the perfect choice for the city driver, yet boasts a surprising amount of space in the cabin. More impressive still is the real world range of more than 300km and its ability to charge at faster speeds than many of its rivals. The e-208 is an ideal choice for a first time buyer looking to start their electric journey.

6. Fiat 500e (42kWh)

Starting from: €26,995

WLTP range: 320 km

€/Km: €84.36

Fiat have just released an electric version of their iconic 500 city car, and the adorable 500e is not just the cutest, but also one of the cleverest EVs on the road. The lightweight body and neat dimensions allow the larger battery models to achieve up to 320km between charges. While it might not be the most spacious car on the road, there’s enough room for two adults to travel quite comfortably with a backseat that is probably more suited to carrying property rather than passengers. The tiny turning circle and finely tuned chassis make it just as good fun to drive as the original.

5. Volkswagen ID.3

Starting from: €43,687

WLTP range: 540km

€/km: €80.90

Volkswagen almost broke the internet when they released details of their much awaited ID.3, the brand’s first purpose-built electric vehicle that looks set to replace the much-loved Golf over the next decade. The futuristic looking hatchback has been a huge success on the Irish market, offering surprisingly good value in its long range version which will to up to 540km between charges thanks to its powerful 77kWh battery. 

4. Hyundai Kona Electric

Starting from: €38,000

WLTP range: 484km

€/Km: €78.51

The Hyundai Kona Electric is another car that made long range electric motoring a lot more accessible with a range of more than 400km for less than €40,000. Prior to its arrival, the ability to travel such a distance on a single charge was reserved for the elite few who could afford a Tesla or a Jaguar.  The Hyundai Kona Electric has enjoyed huge success since its launch, with some good value second hand models beginning to appear on the second hand market.

3. MG5

Starting from: €30,645

 WLTP range: 403km

€/Km: €76.04

The MG5 was the first all-electric estate to land on the European market and finally offered a spacious alternative to those who want something other than an SUV. With a boot capacity of 478 litres, it’s quite an impressive load lugger and the range of 403km makes it capable of travelling from Dublin to Kerry on a single charge. While the slightly anonymous design might not turn many heads, the generous level of standard equipment and safety features make it a lot of car for the money and in our opinions, one of the most underrated EVs on the market.

2. MG ZS

Starting from: €32,995

WLTP range: 440km

€/Km: €74.98

For those old enough to remember, the original MG brand was famous for making sporty little convertibles. It’s now back in a very different guise selling only electric or plug-in hybrid vehicles. The MG ZS is one of the most exciting in the range because not only is it fully electric, it’s also a decent sized family SUV with a newly improved range of up to 440km and a starting price that makes it the best value family-sized option on the market.

1. Renault Zoe

Starting from: €27,550

WLTP range: 395km

€/Km: €69.74

When it comes to which electric car can take you the furthest for your euro – at less than €70 a kilometre, Renault’s cheeky little Zoe takes the crown. The quirky little city car is surprisingly roomy inside despite its compact dimensions and is great fun to drive. Around since 2012, the Zoe is a veteran on the EV market at this stage and remains one of the best value options for zero emissions and zero range anxiety motoring. You can find a great selection of both new and used models here on CarsIreland.ie. (Please note that the range on older models will be battery and spec dependent).

The post Best value EVs for range appeared first on Cartell Car Check.

Only 10 have been registered so far in 2022 and a mere 103 were registered with a 2021 plate. The numbers peak with 1906 registered and currently taxed to 2007 and 1567 registered and currently taxed to 2008.

Graph 1 – Convertibles in the Irish fleet 1990 to 2022 (Source: Cartell Carstat)

In total there are 17,394 convertibles in the Irish fleet and approximately 40 per cent of those (8154) have been imported.

The most popular model is the Mazda MX5 with 1068 registered.

The numbers have now fallen to such an extent that less convertibles were registered last year than in many years of the 90s.

Cartell considered why the popularity of convertibles has fallen away:

• Affluence: Convertibles may have been seen as a sign of affluence: they are more popular in the “boom years” – 2003 to 2008

• Pandemic: The Covid pandemic and various lock-downs may have had an impact on convertible-purchases in 2020 and 2021: for example the numbers registered to 2020 is the third lowest number recorded for any year since 1990

• Other body types: The rise in popularity of body types like the SUV may have taken the gloss away from convertible sales as the buyer opts for something more practical yet stylish

John Byrne, Cartell.ie says:

“The convertible may have been seen as a sign of the times during the boom years when open-topped driving was at its most popular. The fall off since then could be due to a variety of factors – obviously the weather is not always kind in Ireland and buyers often opt for more practical options but there has been a shift in the market away from this type of car. The Covid pandemic has clearly also played its part considering only 80 convertibles were registered and currently taxed to 2020.”

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Vehicle history and data expert Cartell.ie and car sales platform CarsIreland.ie latest data research can reveal the average value of a new car purchased in Ireland. Cartell.ie looked at the average Open Market Selling Price of all new cars purchased between January and October in every year between 2003 and 2021. The results showed that the average value for a new car purchased in 2021 was €35,199. This is the fourth year that average values have exceeded the €30,000-mark.

Chart 1 – Average Open-Market-Selling Price of New Cars purchased in Ireland 2003 to 2021 (Jan to October) Source: Cartell.ie Carstat.

Furthermore the strongest growth in the new car market over the past number of years falls in the €30,000 to €40,000 price bracket (constituting 35% of the total). This band constituted less than 10% of sales back in 2003 and was then the third most popular segment: it is now ahead of all of the other segments. The €20,000 to €30,000 band (31% of the total) now falls into second place. Even the bracket at the higher end of the market, the €40,000 to €60,000 bracket has increased in popularity since 2018 (now constituting 21% of the market up from 12% in 2018).

Graph 1 – Volume of Sales by price band in Ireland in 2021 (January to October) Source: Cartell Carstat

These results clearly show that the buyer is spending more money than ever before on their new car. Reasons for this may include:

• Expensive models: Consumers may be opting for more expensive vehicles, or more expensive vehicle types like SUVs and Crossover vehicles, or MPVs
• Global Chip Shortage: Manufacturers may be prioritising the sale of higher-end models and/or increasing prices owing to the global chip shortage which impacted the market for much of 2021
• Affluence: Buyers may have more cash to spend or more available lines of credit. Financial products such as Personal Contract Plans (PCPs) came to prominence in Ireland during the recession as manufacturers sought a means to provide direct lines of credit to potential buyers
• Larger cars: Buyers may want larger cars. The country had a recorded population of 4.23 million in Census 2006 which increased to 4.76 million in Census 2016. This increase may have weighed on buyer decisions, for instance, buyers with younger children may need additional space
• Manufacture: Vehicles are more expensive to manufacture, to comply with NCAP safety ratings, for example, this increases the cost of manufacture: the buyer now often expects certain higher specification items as standard too – larger wheels, alloys, on-board technology, Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) features – which all increase the manufacture cost
• EVs and PHEVs: Increased consumer demand for electric and hybrid vehicles (where technology is more expensive to implement) could be making an impact, along with changes in buyer habits to more environmentally friendly vehicles, and guided generally by the move to city-clean air policies.

John Byrne, Cartell.ie says:

“This is the first time that the €30,000 to €40,000 segment is the strongest selling tier of the market. Certainly cars are laden with technology including the roll-out of Advanced Driver Assistance Systems Features (ADAS): this adds to the cost of manufacture of the vehicle but it also means new cars are surely the safest they’ve ever been.”

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1) Volkswagen Golf

Fast approaching its 50^th year of production, the Volkswagen Golf has been a firm favourite on Irish roads ever since it took over from the iconic Beetle as the ‘people’s car’ of choice. With a wide choice of body types, fuel types, and eight different generations to choose from, there’s a Volkswagen Golf out there for everyone. Available as a three or five door version over the years, as well as an estate and even a convertible, the Golf can suit all sorts of lifestyles. The choice of powertrains is equally impressive with a huge range of reliable petrol and diesel engines including the iconic GTI and GTD performance models. There’s also the more recent e-Golf and Plug-In Hybrid GTE for those looking for a more environmentally friendly option. You can search for a Volkswagen Golf here and watch a review of the Mk7 model here.

2) Ford Focus

Like the Volkswagen Golf, the Ford Focus is another versatile family hatchback that has become somewhat of an institution on Irish roads. Around since 1998, it’s now in its fourth generation and still one of the most stylish designs in its class. The striking good looks, spacious interior and solid reputation for reliability has ensured the Ford Focus remains a household name and one of the first to come to mind when searching for a good value family runabout. Available in several different body styles from the popular hatchback to the practical estate and more recently a sporty new saloon, there’s a Focus out there to suit most lifestyles and budgets. Whether you go for petrol, diesel, or the new mild hybrid model, the Focus is one of the most enjoyable hatchbacks to drive.  You can search for a Ford Focus here and watch a review of the newest model here.

3) BMW 5-Series

The BMW 5-Series is one of the most desirable vehicles on the road and so it’s no surprise that it’s is the third most searched used car on the Irish market. The luxury saloon has been around in various guises since the early seventies and has long been admired for its sporty yet executive image and vast selection of powerful engines. The superb chassis and rear wheel drive makes it a fun and engaging car to drive with all the comfort and luxurious features you would expect from the BMW badge. Now in its seventh generation, the older models have become collectors’ items, with the M5 performance models in particular demand. There’s a vast range of diesel and petrol options to choose from for the everyday driver too, as well as a greener new Plug-In hybrid model. You can find a 5-series here and watch a review of the most recent model here.

4) Nissan Qashqai

Often credited with igniting the SUV craze in Ireland, Nissan burst on to the scene with their high-riding hatchback back in 2006 and the market was suddenly changed forever. With a name that many struggled to get their tongues around, the Nissan Qashqai offered customers the looks and desirability of an SUV, without the high running costs. The sensible diesel and petrol engines on offer made it no more expensive to run than its low riding competitors at the time. People adored the higher ride height and extra space the Qashqai offered and it quickly became one of the most popular cars on Irish roads. Three generations (and many, many imitations) later, it remains the go-to family car for many with a rock solid reputation for reliability and fuss-free motoring. You can find a Qashqai here and watch a review of the Mk2 model here.

5) Hyundai Tucson

The success of the Hyundai Tucson in Ireland has been nothing short of remarkable. The original Hyundai Tucson enjoyed modest sales in the early noughties before being rebadged as the ix35. The nameplate returned on an all new SUV in 2016, knocking the Volkswagen Golf off the top spot to become the bestselling car in the country, a feat unheard of for a brand new model. The crossover craze was in full swing by now and the combination of the Tucson’s sharp good looks, spacious cabin and fuel efficient engines made it a seemingly irresistible package. It remains one of Ireland’s favourite cars, topping the sales charts almost every year since and is back with a new look and all new powertrains for 2022 including a hybrid and plug-in Hybrid option. You can find a Tucson here and watch a review of the most recent model here.

6) Audi A4

The Audi A4 is another firm favourite on Irish roads. As a country we love our executive saloons, and the Audi’s sleek silhouette alongside that famous ‘Vorsprung durch Technik’ build quality ensures the A4 stays close to the top of many a wish list. Now in its fifth generation, the A4 also comes in a variety of styles including an ‘Avant’ estate version, a convertible ‘Cabrio’, and a powerful ‘Quattro’ all-wheel drive version. The high performance S4 and RS4 models are also in huge demand on the used market. Diesel has traditionally been the most popular powertrain in the A4 but there’s a new model on the way next year with a Plug-In Hybrid option. You can find an Audi A4 here and watch a review of the most recent model here.

7) Audi A6

The Audi A6 is another luxury saloon we are very fond of on these shores. With its premium interior and high tech cabin, it’s not hard to see why it’s in such constant demand. Often cited as a rival to BMW’s 5-Series, the Audi offers slightly more boot space and rear legroom. Some could argue that the BMW is better to drive, but if you can get your hands on a Quattro all-wheel drive model, the A6 can be every bit as fun. Like the A4, the A6 was primarily a diesel car but petrol and Plug-In Hybrid models have been slowly rising in popularity in recent years. You can find an Audi A6 here and watch a review of the most recent model here.

8) Volkswagen Passat

Saloons might be losing ground to SUVs on the new car market here but the trusty Volkswagen Passat is still a hugely popular choice of second hand car. In the almost 50 years it’s been around, the Passat has built itself a loyal fan base here with its unassuming persona and solid build quality.  Available as a saloon or an estate, as well as the popular ‘CC’ Coupé model, the Volkswagen Passat’s combination of looks and practicality continues to appeal to those in the market for a reliable motorway cruiser. The spacious boot and generous legroom in the back make it a sensible choice of family car too. While diesel was initially the most popular option, the latest models come with a choice of petrol and Plug-In Hybrid powertrains. You can find a Volkswagen Passat here and watch a review of the most recent model here.

9) Mercedes-Benz E-Class

The E-Class is Ireland’s favourite Mercedes. The first generation landed here in 1993, and it’s been amongst the top three executive saloons ever since. Just like the Audi A6 and BMW 5-Series, it’s as much a statement as it is a mode of transport. The stunning interior and excellent ride quality make it a worthy investment and there really is no luxury like driving (or being driven) around in the cabin of a Mercedes E-Class. There’s a good variety of body and engine types to choose from, including a rare and interesting new diesel Plug-In Hybrid option on the latest model. You can watch a review of that model here or find an E-Class for sale here.

10) Volkswagen Polo

There are few processes more exciting in life than choosing your first car, and we can’t think of a more perfect option than the Volkswagen Polo. In fact, the Polo is a great option for anyone who doesn’t need a huge amount of space and wants to keep their running costs low. Available in both three and five door versions, the Volkswagen Polo can still be a very practical little runabout with a surprisingly roomy boot and plenty of room for two children in the back. The mainly small petrol engines on offer make it affordable to tax, insure and run. The neat dimensions make it easy to live with and park. You can watch a review of the latest model here or find one for sale here.

The post What Cars are you Searching for the most? appeared first on Cartell Car Check.

1. Turning on the AirCon when you just don’t have to

We’re not suggesting you sit in a puddle of sweat on your commute, but putting up with a bit of mild discomfort might actually make you feel better in the long run, with your pocket a bit heavier. If you must indulge, turn the A/C off when you’ve cooled down. According to the AA, air con uses more fuel at low speeds, so think about rolling down the windows in towns and only using the air con when out on the open road. and watch that fuel efficiency increase.

2. Having Cruise Control but not bothering to use it

Using cruise control to keep the car at a constant speed, without cnstantly adjusting pressure to the accelerator or changing gear, gives your legs a break and also helps to eliminate unnecessary fuel consumption.

3. Travelling with your wardrobe (and more) in the car

Manufacturers try their best to cut weight out of cars, don’t reverse their hard work. Lose the excess weight! Just keep what’s vitally important – First Aid kit, Spare tyre, etc.

4. Driving with the roofbox when you don’t need it

Having your roofbox permanently perched on the top of your car eats into your MPG. Excess weight combined with added drag = poor fuel economy.

5. Tail-gating

It’s not only dangerous, but will leave you hopping on and off the brake pedal as you constantly react to the movements of the car in front. If you leave a bit more space in front you’ll be able to ease off the accelerator as you anticipate having to slow down ahead.

6. Always rushing, racing and being late

Organise and get yourself together to stop yourself rushing and driving on the limit. Give yourself a few extra minutes and enjoy a stress-free, tranquil journey. On the motorway try driving at 100kph rather than 120kph. Arrive at your destination in a relaxed state for once.

7. Idling

Whether it’s “warming up” the car, or waiting for someone with the engine running, it’s not good for your fuel economy. Plus it’s just not necessary, the car will warm up while in motion.

8. Lack of planning

If you are constantly doing short trips here and there, the engine will never fully heat up. Planning and combining errands gives your car a better chance of reaching the right temperature for optimum fuel efficiency.

9. Ignorance to basic car maintenance

Get the car serviced regularly to keep it running efficiently, keep the engine topped up with oil and keep tyres inflated; under-inflated tyres create more rolling resistance and use more fuel.

10. Your love for the red line

Yes I know it’s nice and fun to rev the car hard through the gears and speed off into the distance but it will do you no favours at the pumps. Resist the temptation and change up a gear at an engine speed of around 2,000 rpm in a diesel car or around 2,500 rpm in a petrol car.

While you’re here why not check out Cartell’s new Personal Account.

• Save 20% on your future Cartell Checks
• View your past Cartell Checks
• Get a Cartell Price Guide (CPG) value for your car
• Rank your mileage against other identical cars with our Mileage Analysis tool.

To register for your Cartell Personal Account please CLICK HERE.

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Our latest data findings can reveal a drop in overall levels of finance outstanding on used car purchases in Ireland in 2021. Generally speaking, this is likely attributable to the pandemic and a Post-Brexit environment. From a sample of over 5,906 vehicles offered for sale and checked via the Cartell.ie website in the first 11 months of 2021, the figures show that while 31 percent of three-year-old vehicles are offered for sale with finance outstanding, this value has actually dropped year-over-year from 36 per cent the previous year (2020).

Likewise in the case of one-year-old vehicles (2020), the levels of vehicles offered for sale with finance outstanding is 31%. This means there is still more than a one-in-four chance of a one-year-old vehicle being offered for sale with finance outstanding but the overall level has dropped from 34% for one-year-old vehicles purchased in the previous year.

Similarly in the case of two-year-old vehicles (2018) checked in 2020 there was a 36% chance of a vehicle from that year being offered for sale with finance outstanding based on checks on Cartell.ie in 2020, but, similar to one-year-old and three-year-old cars, the level has dropped – to 33% last year.

Graph 1: Percentages of Vehicles with Outstanding Finance by Registration Year checked on Cartell.ie (Source: Carstat, Cartell.ie)

Older vehicles are not seeing the same declines, and, in some occasional cases the figures for older vehicles are actually going-up. So, seven-year-old vehicles in 2021, for instance, returned 13% with finance outstanding in the first eleven months of 2021 but were pitched slightly lower at 12.5% in 2020. Similarly, six-year-old vehicles are returning the same value as the previous year – at 15%.

Jeff Aherne, Innovation Lead, Cartell.ie, says: “The overall percentages of vehicles offered for sale with finance outstanding in key registration years has fallen from 2020 levels, we saw this when we ran the figures in the middle of last year, and the trend consolidated throughout the remaining part of the year. As always buyers should continue to be cautious. Even taking six-year-old vehicles as an example, nearly one-in-six of those still return outstanding finance. The levels of finance, at the top of the market, despite the recent drop, are still high – 33% of two-year-old vehicles last year are listed as having outstanding finance.

Buyers are strongly advised to be cautious in the market as you cannot take good title in the asset until the final payment has been paid to the financial institution. This means you may be buying a huge problem.”

Cartell speculated on why there has been a noticeable drop in finance levels this year compared with last year, these include:

• Overall market is down owing to the pandemic and post-Brexit environment
• Less new cars sold
• Finance hesitant to loan to people if job not secure
• Work from home so less need for new car
• People had more money saved so less need for finance
• Trade in values were strong so less need to finance delta
• Less imports
• People holding onto cars longer owing to stocking issues or delays in getting a new car owing to chip-shortage

To check the finance history of the used vehicle you are interested in you can purchase a Cartell 3 Star History Check which includes a full finance check for Irish and UK imported vehicles.

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Following extensive research based on a sample of 5,430 write-offs taken from MIAFTR Ireland (Irish Motor Insurance Anti-Fraud and Theft Register), Cartell.ie can reveal that the colours purple (0.0132 per 1000) and green (0.0130 per 1000) are the two colours most likely to be written-off in the Irish fleet.

A write-off occurs when a vehicle sustains damage sufficient for the vehicle to be written-off the books of the insurance company. These are categorised from Category A to Category D.

At the other end of the scale the colour brown is the clear winner for safest vehicle colour. A very small number of brown vehicles were recorded as written off (0.0023 per 1000) in comparison with the fleet average for that colour. The research indicates that a driver of a green car is 5 times more likely to have their vehicle written off than a driver of a brown car.

Here is the list of colours with their associated number of write-offs:

Purple can largely be ignored as the overall numbers of purple cars are much lower than green and a small number of incidents have had an effect on the numbers (a small sample size of data).

The reasons for the colour green appearing at the top of the list for write-off incidents may include:

– Hedgerows in Ireland are many in close proximity to Irish roads, and are obviously generally green coloured, making green vehicles more difficult to spot.

– The army use green vehicles because they are easier to camouflage (which strengthens the argument that green is more difficult to spot on the road).

– Green vehicles may not be picked up as quickly by the human eye (particularly when using peripheral vision).

– The colour green calms the mind which may, theoretically at least, lead to slower reactions times when confronted with a green vehicle.

Finally it’s worth remembering that whatever the colour of your vehicle, all drivers should use day-time running lights for road safety. It is has been mandatory in the EU for all manufactured cars and light commercials to be sold with day-time running lights since 2011.

The post What Colour Car is Most Likely to be Written-off? appeared first on Cartell Car Check.

Many of us are buying and selling our cars online and this can be a good option for some people. However, you should always exercise caution. Remember, a car is a valuable asset so take your time – don’t rush – and if you’re concerned something might be wrong then back away.

Stolen Vehicle

One of the biggest concerns in the used market is to get caught purchasing unwittingly a stolen vehicle. While it continues to be a huge disappointment to us that An Garda Siochana continue to resist calls to release stolen vehicle data to vehicle history companies such as Cartell.ie -there are still things you can do to protect yourself:

-Verify the Chassis Number (VIN) and Vehicle Registration Certificate Number (VRC) as part of a vehicle history check with Cartell.ie or one of our competitors. The VIN is a 17-digit number which is used by the manufacturer to identify the vehicle before any registration plate is applied to it. Locate the number where it is actually stamped into the chassis of the vehicle and if it shows any signs of scratches, or any metal shavings appear around it, then the principle of “buyer beware” applies – the VIN may have been illegitimately changed.

-Verify the number on the VRC as part of a vehicle history check. Always verify the name on the VRC with the official ID of the person you are transacting with – it’s not advisable to do business with anyone else.

It’s also not advisable to conduct a transaction in a public place like a car park. It might seem like “neutral ground” but it’s where stolen vehicles are generally sold.  You might agree to a first viewing of the vehicle in a car park but the actual transaction should not be conducted there. The address of the seller is not a secret as it is clearly stated on the Vehicle Registration Certificate (VRC). If you are a buyer then you can ask to do the transaction there. This gives you a chance to verify the address on the VRC as well. Also, never go unaccompanied to a transaction – whether you are a buyer or a seller – always have other people with you and protect your personal safety at all times.

Payment

The issue of payment is also one which can cause problems. It’s advisable for the buyer and the seller to go together to the bank. Bank draft is often the preferred form of payment in the market as it is a quick and traceable process provided done correctly. Transactions in cash are not advisable as they lack traceability and leave both parties vulnerable. Cheques can take several days or even weeks to clear and can be cancelled.

One scam publicised on RTE radio last year concerned an online phishing scam where a seller encourages a buyer to send funds to a nominated bank account upon which they will “receive the car and have 7 days to consider whether to buy it”. The car is never delivered and the buyer loses their money. The buyer thinks they are dealing with paypal.

Another scam impacts on the seller- not the buyer- where a purchaser offers to buy a vehicle with a falsified bank draft. This offer will usually be made late on a Friday evening, not giving the seller a chance to verify the authenticity of the bank draft.

-Never accept a bank draft for purchase of a vehicle outside of banking hours and always verify a bank draft before accepting it. Ideally, go together to the bank and conduct the transaction there together.

Another scam involving payment was highlighted in the media recently when a seller takes the money of the buyer to “check it out” as he says he has been “caught out before”. He then runs with the money. This leaves the buyer with a vehicle that often doesn’t even start. No documentation is supplied for the vehicle.

-Never consider payment before first verifying VIN, VRC and official ID of seller and verify the address of the seller against the VRC and take a test-drive of vehicle. Don’t do transactions in cash.

Online Scams

Various online scams also continue to operate. One of these is the “deposit scam” where a fake seller offers vehicles at knocked-down prices. Seller requests buyer to deposit money in a bank account in order to release the vehicle. There are various versions of the scam but all involve a seller looking for money to be deposited. In all cases the seller does not have the vehicle. Often, the vehicle is actually legitimately offered for sale, by a legitimate seller, on a different website. The fake seller will cut and paste photos from the legitimate ad and create a false advertisement.

-Common sense prevails. Never deposit money into a bank account on the request of a seller of a vehicle – without first going through all of the various steps mentioned earlier.

The purchase of a car is a major transaction and for some it may be your first time, or, it may have been years since you last entered the market. So the transaction may seem unfamilar to you. It’s important to first verify all documentation, before considering payment, and keep the transaction at arm’s length – in other words don’t be too trusting of the other party – make sure everything is right before handing over your money or accepting that bank-draft. Unfortunately car scams in Ireland – even obvious ones – continue to exist because people fall for them.

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Our latest data reveals a rise in CO₂ emissions in the Irish fleet. In 2021, Cartell looked at the state of CO₂ emissions in the private transport sector for the first 10 months of the year and compared the results to the first ten months of the year for each year since 2003. In November the international GOP26 stressed the urgent need for Governments to introduce measures to reduce greenhouse gas emissions including in the private transport sector.

Unfortunately Cartell can report that the situation has deteriorated over the last 12 months and the gains which we noted were recorded in 2020 have not been consolidated in respect of our emission of CO₂. In a development for Government there has been an upturn in the average CO₂ emissions of new vehicles sold in Ireland: in 2021 average emissions increased recording a reading of 112g CO₂ /km*. This is a level equivalent to what was recorded in 2018 and far above the level of 105g CO₂ /km that Cartell observed for the equivalent period last year.

Graph 1: Average CO₂   of new private vehicles bought in Ireland 2003-2021 for first ten months of the year in each case – Jan to October (Source: Cartell Carstat)

Table 1: Average CO₂  of new private vehicles bought in Ireland 2003-2021 for  first ten months of the year in each case – Jan to October (Source: Cartell Carstat)

Why has there been an increase this year?

Cartell.ie considered the data further for each of the various vehicle price segments to see which segment is performing the best and which the worst. Surprisingly, the best segment, showing the lowest CO₂ emissions, was the most expensive segment considered – vehicles over €60,000 in value. This segment brought in average emissions of just 90 CO₂ /km down from 127 CO₂ /km for the equivalent period last year. The worst performing segment for emissions were those vehicles at the other end of the scale – vehicles priced at €20,000 or less recorded a figure of 122 CO₂ /km. The segment breakdown was as follows:

Table 2: Average CO₂  of new private vehicles bought in Ireland 2003-2021 for  first ten months of the year in each case – Jan to October by price segment (Source: Cartell Carstat)

Jeff Aherne, Innovation Lead Cartell.ie, says:

“We are looking exclusively at new vehicles sold in Ireland and not at imported vehicles. It is unfortunate that the figures for CO₂ /km in the private transport sector are increasing, just when we thought things had shifted in a favourable direction. The Government will have to seriously consider these results which show that it is the cheaper new cars which are doing the damage – CO₂ /km for new cars priced less than €20,000 are the highest of any segment. The reason for this is pretty straightforward: Electric Vehicles and Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicles are bringing down the overall level of emissions in the more expensive segments. Until the price of these vehicle types reduces we face an uphill battle in bringing down fleet CO₂ /km any further. At the other end of the market, these results show that those with cash to splurge on an expensive car are thinking about the environment: this is one good thing to come out of these findings.”

*WLTP

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