Dublin — June 3, 2026 — Minister for Transport Darragh O’Brien has announced the launch of the ICE2EV Scheme, a new €10 million initiative designed to accelerate the switch from older internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles to cleaner electric vehicles (EVs).
Administered by the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI), the scheme will begin on 1 July 2026 and targets ICE vehicles registered in 2013 or earlier. Eligible applicants can receive €5,000 for the permanent removal of qualifying ICE cars, which must be used toward the purchase of a new battery EV. Combined with the existing €3,500 EV grant, households can access up to €8,500 in support.
Minister O’Brien emphasized the environmental and financial benefits: “Older vehicles are among the highest emitters in our transport system. ICE2EV is designed to bridge the gap, helping households make the switch while delivering immediate reductions in emissions.”
The scheme prioritizes rural communities, with 65% of funding allocated to rural applicants and 35% to urban applicants, based on Census 2022 definitions. Ministers Seán Canney and Jerry Buttimer highlighted the importance of accessibility for rural households, where car dependency is greatest.
In addition, Minister O’Brien announced a change to the existing EV Purchase Grant. From 31 July 2026, the maximum eligible vehicle price threshold will be reduced from €60,000 to €50,000, ensuring public funding supports more affordable EVs while freeing resources for the rollout of public charging infrastructure.
William Walsh, CEO of SEAI, welcomed the initiative: “Switching to an EV can make a real difference to household running costs and quality of life. This scheme will help even more people make the change.”
The ICE2EV scheme represents a significant step in Ireland’s climate action strategy, tackling emissions from older vehicles while making EVs more accessible to households nationwide.
