Photo: The team from the SEAI pictured with Conor Gillespie, Marketing Lead at Fred Kilmartin LTD (second from left), and the current President of the Society of the Irish Motor Industry, Michael Wood (far right).
Fred Kilmartin LTD was delighted to be named the Connacht Regional Winner at the recent 2026 Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland Electric Vehicle Dealership Awards, recognising the work being done locally to support customers moving towards electric and hybrid vehicles.
Interest in electric and hybrid vehicles has grown significantly over the past three years. Industry figures show that numbers of electric cars in Galway and Roscommon increased from 332 in 2024, to 408 in 2025, and 644 this year to date, mirroring the strong rise in electric vehicle (EV) registrations recorded nationally.
Another sign of demand can be seen in Ford’s recent “Win a Puma” test-drive campaign, which generated over 1,000 entries nationwide. Approximately 45 of these test drives were completed in Ballinasloe.
At Fred Kilmartin Ltd, more motorists are now actively considering electric and hybrid options for the first time. Different customers are looking for different solutions depending on their lifestyle and driving needs. Many families are now exploring electric vehicles as a practical and economical second car for school runs and commuting, while travelling salespeople are increasingly attracted to the lower running costs, comfort and technology available across the latest EV models. For farmers and commercial customers, hybrid technology is becoming an increasingly attractive option.
The new Ford Ranger Plug-in Hybrid now offers the practicality, towing capability and durability expected from a Ranger, while also reducing fuel costs and emissions.
There is also growing interest locally in second-hand electric vehicles as more affordable options begin entering the market. Customers are becoming increasingly confident in EV technology, battery warranties and charging infrastructure, particularly as fuel and motoring costs continue to rise.
Hybrid vehicles also continue to play a major role for customers who may not yet be ready to move fully electric, offering a balance between traditional petrol or diesel driving and improved efficiency.
Ford is currently providing very strong contributions and supports to help encourage customers to make the switch towards electrified vehicles, including 0% finance across selected all-electric models, making EV ownership more accessible than before.
The team at Fred Kilmartin Ltd believes the move towards electric and hybrid motoring will continue to grow strongly across the region over the coming years as more customers experience the benefits firsthand.
