An Cosantóir

www.military.ie THE DEFENCE FORCES MAGAZINE | 11 charge, supported by a growing network of rapid charging stations across Defence installations and national routes. Transitioning 20% of the fleet to electric power has required careful planning, targeted investment, and collaboration across the three Services. The first charging points were established in 2023 at Cork, Athlone, the Curragh, Baldonnel, and Haulbowline, forming the foundation of an expanding national network and the input of the Directorate of Engineering is noteworthy here. Plans are now underway for additional recharging hubs at 90 locations along key national routes, ensuring long- distance viability. These upgrades are removing "range anxiety" and reinforcing the DF progress toward a predominantly EV-powered administrative fleet. Replacing internal combustion engines (ICE) with electric alternatives offers environmental and economic advantages. EVs produce no exhaust emissions, reduce local air pollution, and contribute to Ireland's broader climate goals. They are also significantly more cost-effective to run, being up to 70% cheaper per Km than traditional diesel vehicles, while in the medium term requiring less maintenance due to fewer moving parts. Increased reliability and reduced downtime mean DF vehicles in future will spend more time on the road and less in workshops, improving productivity and value for money. While the achievements to date are noteworthy, they represent only the beginning of the Defence Forces' green transition. As Ireland works toward the national target of 30% electric vehicles by 2030, the DF will continue to evolve, expanding EV infrastructure and maintaining a commitment to sustainable operations. Every electric Km travelled reinforces this dedication not only to Defence, but to Ireland's environmental future. Meet the Fleet The Defence Forces remain fully committed to supporting the Government's climate ambitions by transitioning the white fleet (admin fleet), where practicable, to energy-efficient and sustainable transport solutions. The current electric vehicle lineup includes: Kia e-Niro • Motor: 150 kW (201 bhp) • Battery: 64 kWh • Range: up to 455 km • AC Charge: 7.2 kW (0–100% in 9 hours) • DC Fast Charge: up to 77 kW (10–80% in 45 minutes) • Seats/Load: 5 seats, 451 L boot Hyundai IONIQ 5 • Motor: 168 kW • Battery: 77 kWh • Range: up to 480 km • AC Charge: 11 kW (0–100% in 7 hours) • DC Fast Charge: up to 200 kW (10–80% in 18 minutes) • Seats/Load: 5 seats, 527 L boot Nissan e-NV200 (Van) • Motor: 80 kW (109 bhp) • Battery: 40 kWh • Range: up to 200 km • AC Charge: 6.6 kW (0–100% in 7 hours) • DC Fast Charge: up to 50 kW (20–80% in 40 minutes) • Seats/Load: 4.2 m³ Peugeot e-Partner / e-Expert (Van) • Motor: 100 kW (136 bhp) • Battery: 50 kWh • Range: 270–300 km • AC Charge: 11 kW (0–100% in 5 hours) • DC Fast Charge: up to 100 kW (10–80% in 30 minutes) • Seats/Load: up to 1,000 kg Kia EV6 • Motor: 168–239 kW (225–321 bhp) • Battery: 77.4 kWh • Range: up to 528 km • AC Charge: 11 kW (0–100% in 7 hours) • DC Fast Charge: up to 233 kW (10–80% in 18 minutes) • Seats/Load: 5 seats, 480 L boot

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