New research indicates changing car ownership patterns in Ireland with multiple cars in the driveway being driven by work commutes and family needs.
Trends from the cost of living to working from home to climate action are driving changes in Irish car ownership demographics.
A new study by car sharing platform GoCar indicates that one in five (21%) of car owners under 35 are considering giving up their primary vehicle.
“The research shows the desire among Irish car owners, particularly younger car owners, to reduce the number of cars per household”
One in five (22%) of homes in Ireland have multiple cars in the driveway, driven by family needs (52%) and work commutes.
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The study shows that cost is the main barrier (40%) for drivers purchasing an electric vehicle.
The cost of running a car emerged as a significant concern among respondents. Nearly a quarter (24%) already claim to be driving less often due to the increase in the price of petrol and diesel in recent years and 62% of drivers stating they would consider giving up their vehicle due to rising expenses
More than one-third (36%) of drivers claim they have reduced their driving since the pandemic. This reduction may have encouraged drivers to give up the car sitting in the driveway, with one in ten (10%) drivers planning to give up their primary car in the coming years. This increases to 16% when considering giving up a secondary car.
The latest GoCar index shows that trips by drivers using the platform increased by 14% in 2024. The platform has a fleet of 1,100 vehicles around the country. GoCar works on a pay-per-trip basis, allowing its users to access a vehicle whenever they need it.
When it comes to Ireland’s car usage, car journeys tend to be short – both in terms of distance and time. The research reveals that the Irish public mainly use their cars for shorter journeys. Over three-quarters (77%) of car journeys across Ireland are completed in less than 30 minutes and it was also found that nearly one in three motorists (28%) drive less than 5km per trip.
User data from GoCar shows that the average return distance of a GoCar trip is 86km, suggesting that GoCar customers use the cars for more intentional trips.
Grocery shopping (77%) is the main reason drivers would not part with their car, however, over one-third (36%) would be encouraged to give up the car if they could work from home more. Other reasons cited that would encourage drivers to say goodbye to their motor are working from home (65%), wanting to cycle or walk more (41%) and reducing their carbon footprint (35%).
“The research shows the desire among Irish car owners, particularly younger car owners, to reduce the number of cars per household,” explained Joe Quirke, head of GoCar.
“We welcome this enthusiasm and want to remind car owners that GoCar offers a practical alternative by giving drivers convenient vehicle access if and when needed.
“Whether you’re considering giving up a secondary car to save on costs or free up space, GoCar provides a hassle-free solution. Fuel and insurance are all included in our hourly rate, making it an ideal choice for those who need occasional access to a vehicle. GoCar is committed to providing flexible, cost-effective solutions to help individuals and families reduce their reliance on private cars.”
Podcast interview with Joe Quirke, head of GoCar in Ireland:
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