Used Electric Car Sales in Ireland Rise 31% in 2025

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.