Senior motorists and those over the age of 65 are choosing to drive electric and hybrid vehicles rather than the traditional petrol and diesel cars. (View source on rte.ie).
Here at Sandyford Motor Centre, we are noticing a particular increased interest in our Peugeot electric and hybrid range of vehicles. This makes complete sense and is due to the many positive aspects of driving electric. It makes complete economic sense to this demographic of motorist, that is older and wiser in most things in the world. The ease of motoring, the lower maintenance needs and the increased safety features combine to make driving electric the go to choice for the more mature driver. The urge to drive responsibly for environmental reasons and to offer a greener future to the grandchildren of the world, as we all strive to meet carbon emission targets, is a very relevant driving force in their choices. Of course, the fact that Peugeot EVs are classically beautiful, sleek, powerful and head-turningly gorgeous helps too! Who doesn’t deserve luxury in their golden years?
The more mature motorist is ‘on the road’ just as much, if not more, as they were during their working lives. ‘Active retirement’ is not just a passive statement and enjoying the spacious comfort, the technological advances, and the smooth quiet driving of some of the planets coolest cars makes all the child collecting and appointment keeping more pleasurable. For many who make the transition to this gentle, silent, and efficient motoring, they find their love of driving is rejuvenated and those lovely long road trips become more frequent as they embrace an easy lifestyle and the freedom of the open road.
In Ireland, there was marked growth in BEV (Battery Electric Vehicle) registrations in March, May, and June of last year. This trend will likely continue, as we know that Irish car buyers over 65 are expressing huge interest in hybrid vehicles in particular. They love the flexibility and the practicality, and they absolutely love the superior driving experience. Enjoying that smooth silent ride, with no vibrations, with powerful accelerations and no gear changes. EV driving means uncompromising comfort and the latest technology wrapped up in classy sleek design and all while reducing carbon emissions. No contest really!
The EV is cheaper to run than a petrol or diesel car. It can be charged at home using night time electricity rate and wise drivers will avail of the government incentives for home chargers. Road tax is cheaper, and the purchase price of the cars themselves has become much more accessible since the first electric cars was rolled off the factory floor. Cheaper maintenance and running costs, including purchasing assistance and lower tolls all combine to make it a sensible option financially.
For the older driver, the EV and hybrid car is extremely beneficial if you have limited mobility as clutch and gear changing is not an issue. While this is normal with automatic cars, when accompanied by all the other benefits of driving electric, the smoother drive and the increased safety features, it is a game changer for motorist that may suffer from joint pain, or who may have sensory sensitivities or simply dislike an excess of movement or noise. The electric vehicle with fewer moving parts and its low centre of gravity makes driving feel more fluid and stable. This significantly improves the comfort of your driving experience, with reduced vibrations and a smoother road ahead. A smooth road ahead is what you might and should expect in your twilight years.
For the more mature car buyer, there is a realisation that comfort and practicality are a must and if that happens to come with a large dose of classic style, technical innovation and a smooth ride…well so be it! We are not surprised that our more senior customers know what they want and are going for it. Clearly, older is wiser!
If you would like more information on, or to test drive any of our Peugeot EV range, just give us a shout. Whether you are one of our Golden oldies or a first-time buyer, we have the model to suit your budget and your driving needs. Call us today !