Clare's top-selling car revealed as sales of new car sales increase

The number of electric cars sold in Clare last month dipped marginally compared to the same month last year while there was a significant increase in sales of hybrid vehicles

According to new data from the Society of the Irish Motor Industry (SIMI), 59 new electric cars were registered in Clare during January representing 8.48% of all new cars sold across the county.

More than a third (34.05%) of new cars sold were petrol-fuelled, 26.12% were diesel models and 23.71% were classed as hybrid (Petrol Electric).

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Meanwhile, the latest figures show that sales of new cars in Clare, across all categories, increased by 14.85% when compared to January 2023.

According to SIMI, a total of 696 new cars were registered across Clare last month - up from 606 in the same month in 2023.

The five most popular make of model of car sold in Clare during 2023 were: Kia Sportage (46), Hyundai Tucson (38), Ford Puma (25) and Nissan Qashqai (24).

Grey (39.37%), blue (16.95%) and black (16.38%) were the most-popular colour choices for those who bought new cars in Clare during January.

Commenting on the latest figures, Brian Cooke, SIMI Director General said: "January 2024 has seen a positive start to the year for the Irish Motor Industry. New car registrations are 15% ahead of 2023, although they remain 3% behind 2019 (pre-covid). Sales of commercial vehicles, both Light (LCV) and Heavy (HGVs) registrations, are showing increases on last year, a positive signal from the business sector. Electric vehicles (EVs) sales continue to grow, with 4,109 registrations (nationally) in January, up 12% on the same period last year. Petrol cars retained the top market share, while Hybrid-electric cars surged to overtake Diesel cars claiming second place for the first time." 

Mr Cooke added: "While EV sales can be viewed positively, the growth is slightly less than the overall increase in the new car market. This highlights the ongoing challenge as we move away from the early adapter stage into a more mainstream market. The Industry continues to supply a greater range of Electric Vehicles (EVs) with over 70 different EV models available for sale in Ireland. As we move forward, ongoing Government support in terms of incentives and charging infrastructure will play a vital role in ensuring the success of the next phase in the transition to electrification.”