Electric vehicle buyers in Northern Ireland to benefit from £650m UK grant

Northern Ireland motorists are set to benefit from a new UK Government initiative aimed at accelerating the shift to zero-emission transport, with Infrastructure Minister Liz Kimmins welcoming the £650 million Electric Car Grant scheme.

The grant, announced by the Department for Transport, will support consumers — including both private buyers and commercial fleets — by subsidising the purchase of electric and hydrogen-powered vehicles. Eligible vehicles must meet minimum sustainability standards and be priced under £37,000.

Two levels of grant support will be available:

Rather than placing the onus on consumers to apply, manufacturers will apply for their vehicles to be approved for the scheme, allowing car buyers to access the discount directly through dealerships at the point of sale.

Infrastructure Minister Liz Kimmins said the scheme represents a significant step towards delivering on the Department for Infrastructure’s vision of a greener future.

“Creating a carbon free environment is one of my Department’s seven Foundations for a Better Future. Removing car emissions through increasing the number of zero emission vehicles will have the most significant impact on reducing carbon emissions from the transport sector,” she said.

Minister Kimmins acknowledged that cost remains a major barrier for those considering switching to an electric vehicle.

“Cost is often cited as the biggest barrier to purchasing an electric vehicle and this grant scheme will significantly reduce the cost of a new EV and make that process more affordable.

“I would encourage any individual or business considering changing their vehicle to think about choosing the electric option and to avail of this scheme.”

To further ease the transition, all administrative processes will be managed by manufacturers, dealerships, and the UK Government.

“All administration will be handled by the dealerships, manufacturers and the British Government to streamline the process and minimise the burden on consumers,” Minister Kimmins added.

The scheme is part of the UK Government’s wider strategy to phase out petrol and diesel vehicles and support its legally binding climate targets. It also complements ongoing efforts in Northern Ireland to increase EV infrastructure and promote sustainable transport choices.

More information about the grant and how vehicle manufacturers can apply for eligibility can be found on the UK Government website: