Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 28 April 2026
379. Deputy Ciarán Ahern asked the Minister for Transport his plans to review the zero-emission heavy duty vehicle purchase grant scheme to increase uptake; his plans to increase the value of grants; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30379/26]
View answerThe Zero Emission Heavy Duty Vehicle (ZEHDV) Grant Scheme is a grant for HDVs to bridge the gap between a zero emission vehicle and a fossil fuel vehicle.
Changes to the ZEHDV grant scheme will make it easier and more flexible for companies to invest in electric trucks and buses, with total grant value of up to €500,000 per year per company now available.
The updated scheme allows businesses to phase investment over time, rather than relying on a one-off funding opportunity, helping companies manage cash flow while modernising their fleets.
Alongside the vehicle purchase support, businesses can also access grants of up to €300,000 under the Zero Emission Vehicle Infrastructure Grant Scheme (ZEHDV-I) to install depot charging infrastructure and support charging logistics hubs and urban locations.
The Government is also supporting businesses at the planning stage through the EV Fleet Assessment Grant, which offers fully funded expert assessment to help companies understand how electric vehicles can operate within their existing fleets. Assessments cover routes, vehicle suitability, charging needs and total cost of ownership providing a clear roadmap to electrification.
Funding and incentives for Electric Vehicles are under regular review by Departmental officials with a view to targeting exchequer funding which can deliver most effectively against Government priorities. The ZEHDV scheme offers the maximum available funding per vehicle under EU State Aid requirements. We will continue to take a balanced approach, ensuring that our incentives and policy measures are both ambitious and deliverable within the current environment.
