From July 1st, 2025, a new visual symbol for sustainability will appear on Irish roads: a green ‘flash’ on the side of vehicle registration plates, exclusively for zero-emission vehicles.

This initiative, announced by the Department of Transport and supported by Zero Emission Vehicles Ireland (ZEVI), is a key step in Ireland’s transition to cleaner transport.

At Mahony Fleet, we’re proud to support this move, which aligns with our commitment to helping Irish businesses adopt an electrified approach to their fleet needs and reduce their carbon footprint.

What Is the Green ‘Flash’?

The green ‘flash’ is a vertical green stripe that will appear on the left-hand side of Irish registration plates, as it already does in some European countries. It will be available for all new and existing battery electric vehicles (BEVs), as well as for hydrogen fuel cell vehicles in the future. The rest of the plate remains unchanged, maintaining the familiar Irish format.

This new identifier is designed to make zero-emission vehicles more visible on the road, helping to normalise electric driving and support the shift away from fossil fuels. So, does this mean that all new EVs will have to have the green flash? No. It’s a voluntary addition, meaning existing EV owners can choose to retrofit their plates through approved suppliers.

Why it Matters

The new green flash supports Ireland’s Climate Action Plan, which aims to cut transport emissions by 50% by 2030. By making EVs more visible, the initiative aims to:

– Raise awareness of zero-emission transport.
– Encourages adoption by showcasing EVs as a growing norm.
– Supports future incentives, such as access to low-emission zones or preferential parking.

Minister for Transport Darragh O’Brien described the initiative as “a small but effective step” that helps track progress and gives people and businesses a way to show their commitment to a cleaner transport future.

What it Means for Fleet Owners

For fleet providers like Mahony Fleet, the green flash is a welcome development. It enables us to demonstrate our leadership in sustainable transportation in a visible way. Our Mahony Fleet electric vehicle leasing customers will have the option to use the green flash.

The new plates can be fitted to a wide range of vehicles, provided they emit zero CO2. Plug-in Hybrid vehicles are not included.

Supporting the Transition

The rollout of the green flash is part of a broader government strategy aimed at accelerating EV adoption. In 2025 alone, over €100 million will be allocated to support EV grants and infrastructure development. Ireland joins countries like the UK, Germany, and Norway in using distinct registration plates to highlight zero-emission vehicles.

Research shows that visible green choices can positively influence others to adopt sustainable behaviours. The green flash is expected to have a similar effect, encouraging more drivers to consider electric options.

Looking Ahead

The green flash is a subtle yet significant addition with considerable potential. It’s a visible sign of Ireland’s commitment to a cleaner, greener future—and a reminder that every journey in an EV is a step toward that goal.

At Mahony Fleet, we’re here to help you make that journey. Whether you’re looking to add electric vehicles to your fleet or start your electrification journey with a PHEV, our team is ready to assist.

Contact Mahony Fleet today to discover more about our electric vehicle offerings and how we can assist your transition to zero-emission transportation.