Trinity Motor Group Acquires Sinnott Autos, Wicklow
Trinity Motor Group has acquired Sinnott Autos Ltd. of Wicklow Town, and will take over the running of the Volkswagen and Skoda franchise dealerships at two sites on the Dublin Road.
The family owned motor group was established in 1995 by Edward Murphy on Trinity Street in Wexford Town, with four family members active in the business today. Trinity has a wealth of experience in the motor sector, operating well-known motor franchises in Wexford, including Mazda, Mitsubishi, Peugeot, and Jaguar Land Rover.
Sinnott Autos held the Volkswagen franchise in Wicklow town since 1987 and the ŠKODA brand since 2010. Sinnott Autos are also Authorised Repairers for Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles.
Established by Paul and John Sinnott under the guidance of their father Jimmy Sinnott back in 1987, the business established itself as one of the region's premier motor dealerships employing 34 staff members.
The Volkswagen brand has been the best-selling car brand in Wicklow since 2018, with the ŠKODA brand being the fifth most popular in the county.
Sinnott Autos has been synonymous with the local community, supporting sports, cultural and social events such as the Taste of Wicklow and Wicklow Regatta Festival.
Speaking about the acquisition, Paul Sinnott of Sinnott Autos said: “We would like to sincerely thank our customers for their loyalty and custom over the past 33 years. The success of Sinnott Autos would not have been possible without the loyalty of our customers. We have a team of exceptional staff, who are trained to the highest standards and will continue to work with Trinity Motor Group and be on hand to offer their expertise to customers from 4th January 2021. We are confident that Trinity Motor Group will continue our tradition, offering excellence in sales and service in both the Volkswagen and ŠKODA brands.”
Barry Murphy of Trinity Motor Group, said: “We would like to welcome the Sinnott Autos staff and customers to Trinity Motor Group. We are excited with the prospects of working with the Volkswagen and ŠKODA brands and are looking forward to a long and fruitful relationship.”
The transition to Trinity Motor Group will commence from 4th January 2021. Customers who have ordered new or used vehicles, or who have booked servicing and maintenance, will be unaffected by the transition.
Find out more about Trinity Motor Group in our dealer spotlight feature.
MG Motor Ireland Appoints Dealer Network
MG Motor Ireland has released details of the brand's new dealer retail network in Ireland.
This news follows the announcement last month that the brand will relaunch here, with a new range of electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles.
The six dealerships are Linders Finglas, Finglas Rd, Dublin 11; Frank Keane MG, Ballymount, Dublin 22; Johnson & Perrott, Mahonpoint Retail Park, Cork, Sheils Limerick, Ennis Road, Limerick; Sheils Galway, Headford Road, Galway; and Colm Hanly Motors, Cashel, Tipperary.
The all electric MG ZS and plug-in hybrid MG HS will debut in showrooms in December.
The MG ZS compact SUV has a range of 263 km and is available from €28,995 for the Excite trim level, and from €31,995 for the Exclusive trim.
The MG HS is a mid-sized family SUV with a plug-in hybrid powertrain that delivers a 52 km driving range in pure electric mode.
Pricing for the HS range starts from €33,150.
In early 2021 the MG range will be joined by the all-electric MG5 Sportwagon with a range of 345 km.
Gerard Rice, Managing Director, MG Motor Ireland, said:
“We are delighted to announce our MG Motor Dealer network from launch and are thrilled to be working with such valued partners to deliver MG Motor sales and aftersales in the Irish market. We look forward to the growth and success of the brand by working closely with the dealers who will look after the electric vehicle desire of the customer as the MG Motor brand is re-born in Ireland.”
Circle K Extends IONITY Network In Ireland
Circle K has announced the opening of a new IONITY high power EV charging station at Circle K Kill South on the N7.
This brings the total number of IONITY stations in Ireland to six Circle K sites, with other sites positioned at Circle K Gorey on the M11, Circle K Athlone on the M6, Circle K Kill North on the N7, Circle K Cashel on the M8, and Circle K City North on the M1.
At each location, there is an average of four rapid EV chargers for electric vehicles that can charge at maximum 350 kW, where the car allows, using the leading European standard Combined Charging System (CCS).
The company also notes that IONITY chargers use 100% renewable electricity.
Jonathan Diver, Senior Director Fuels at Circle K Ireland, said:
“We are delighted to make this announcement today continuing our strategic partnership with IONITY. This further increases our EV capabilities across our network of service stations and more importantly delivers more high-power charging solutions for motorists across Ireland.
IONITY are renowned globally for being at the cutting edge of EV charging and our partnership with them is testament to the scale, quality and geographic spread of the Circle K network both here in Ireland and internationally. We look forward to working closely with IONITY in the years’ ahead to develop our EV capacity further.
At Circle K, we know that the forecourt of today is not the forecourt of tomorrow and people will look to us to show leadership on electrification. We are already leading the evolution in this regard in terms of our extensive EV and alternative fuel capabilities across our network and we have a pivotal role to play in ensuring a smooth transition to electric vehicle usage in this country.”
Pia Bretschneider, Country Manager, UK & Ireland at IONITY, said:
“IONITY’s continued partnership with Circle K demonstrates our commitment to helping drive forward electromobility across Ireland and the rest of Europe. The new charging stations will enable drivers to travel hassle-free across the country and charge their EV in the time it takes them to enjoy a cup of coffee at Circle K’s facilities. The ultra-fast chargers are absolutely critical for a successful transition to electric mobility and ensuring zero emissions at the tailpipe. Our commitment to green mobility is also reflected by the use of energy only from 100% renewable sources at all of our stations. It has been a pleasure to partner with Circle K who clearly understand their customers’ needs to ensure their journeys are as enjoyable as possible, whilst forwarding the e-mobility revolution.”
Circle K is Ireland’s largest forecourt and convenience retailer. With 2,220 employees, its retail network is made up of 410 service stations across the island of Ireland. Of these stations, 160 are owned by Circle K and 250 are owned by independent retail partners. The company also operates a large commercial fuels business, with over 20 depots and two owned terminals across the country.
IONITY was founded in 2017 and is a joint venture by BMW Group, Mercedes Benz AG, Ford Motor Company, Hyundai Motor Group and the Volkswagen Group with Audi and Porsche. The company is headquartered in Munich with an additional office in Oslo, Norway, an employs more than 75 people.
Read our guide to using IONITY in Ireland.
New Car Registrations Data For Ireland November 2020
The Society of the Irish Motor Industry (SIMI) has released their official new vehicle registrations statistics for November 2020.
New car registrations for November saw an increase of 20.11% (914) when compared to November 2019 (761).
Registrations year to date are down 25.0% (87,728) on the same period last year (116,885).
The top 5 bestselling car brands so far in 2020 are 1. Volkswagen, 2. Toyota, 3. Hyundai, 4. Skoda and 5. Ford.
The top 5 bestselling models in 2020 so far are 1. Toyota Corolla, 2. Hyundai Tucson, 3. Volkswagen Tiguan, 4. Ford Focus and 5. Hyundai Kona.
The bestselling car in November was the Hyundai Tucson.
Diesel accounts for 43.22% of the new car market, petrol for 36.98%, hybrid for 11.91%, electric for 4.48% and plug-in hybrid for 2.79%.
Light Commercials vehicles (LCV) are down 3.2% (830) compared to November last year (857) and year to date are down 14.8% (21,431).
HGV (Heavy Goods Vehicle) registrations are down 30.5% (82) in comparison to November 2019 (118). Year to date HGVs are down 21.9% (2,038).
Used car imports for November (8,647) have seen a decrease of 13.6% on November 2019 (10,008). While year to date imports are down 35.4% (67,151) on 2019 (103,900).
Brian Cooke, SIMI Director General, said:
“While the registration numbers year to date highlight the extremely difficult trading conditions, down 25% on last year and 40% since 2016, today Ireland moves out of Level 5 restrictions which sees motor retailers re-open their vehicle sales functions. SIMI members operate with large well-ventilated showrooms and this along with the ability to display vehicles in an outdoor setting allow for business to be done in a very low risk environment for the transmission of COVID-19, making them safe for both customers and staff. With the key New Year selling period only weeks away, this re-opening comes at an opportune time. The use of digital platforms during the lockdown has provided an important shop window for customers looking to buy a new or used car and with Vehicle Manufacturers and retailers offering generous incentives to buy a new “211” car, the Industry is hopeful that activity will be brisk in the coming weeks and months ahead.”
Read the latest 211 offers on new cars for 2021.
Toyota Mirai On Way To Ireland
Toyota Ireland is making positive steps to bringing the Toyota Mirai hydrogen fuel cell electric vehicle to Ireland.
In a press release, the company says that they are looking to bring a Mirai demonstrator model to Ireland in 2021, along with a temporary refuelling station.
Working closely with Hydrogen Mobility Ireland, of which Toyota Ireland director Mark Teevan is Chairman, the ambition is to bring in limited numbers of the Mirai in 2023, when refuelling stations are available in Dublin.
Toyota began development of a hydrogen fuel cell electric vehicle in 1992, and introduced the first generation Mirai saloon to world markets in 2014.
In 2019 the company revealed a new generation of the pioneering Mirai, with a dramatic new look that made it far more appealing to look at. A comprehensively redesigned fuel cell system, intelligent packaging and aerodynamic efficiency help extend the driving range to around 650 km, with no other emissions than pure water.
News of the new Mirai comes just two weeks after Hydrogen Mobility Ireland (HMI) announced a multi week, in-service, trial of a fuel cell electric bus in the Dublin area. This will be the first ever Hydrogen Fuel Cell Electric Vehicle (FCEV), powered by a 60Kw Toyota Mirai fuel cell stack. The trial looks to demonstrate the many practical uses and environmental benefits of hydrogen towards a carbon-free society.
Steve Tormey, Chief Executive of Toyota Ireland, said:
“Toyota has been at the forefront of innovation in low emissions motoring for more than 20 years with our extensive hybrid range. The new Mirai represents a major step forward in sustainable motoring, emitting only water from the tail pipe, and going beyond zero emissions by cleaning the air as it moves. We are very excited about bringing the new Mirai to Ireland, and are looking to bring in demonstrator models next year. Hydrogen fuel cell can play a pivotal role in moving us towards a carbon-free environment and it is a real game changer for the health and wellbeing of our planet and future generations."
Honda Partners With SSE Airtricity
Honda has teamed up with SSE Airtricity in Ireland to offer Honda e customers the installation of a free home charging system.
The Honda e is the Japanese brand's first battery electric car and went on sale in Ireland in November priced from €29,995.
To avail of the offer, customers are asked to check their SEAI grant eligibility and SSE Airtricity will then take care of the rest.
SSE Airtricity is the largest generator and supplier of green energy in Ireland, providing 100% green electricity, natural gas and energy-related services to home and business customers.
John Saunders Sales and Marketing Director for Universal Honda Ltd. said:
“With a greater focus on environmental issues such as climate change we are witnessing our customers looking to seek cleaner mobility and energy choices here in Ireland. The launch of the Honda e represents our commitment to reflecting this change as we transition towards Honda’s 2022 goal, where our entire model range will be electrified. Therefore, we are delighted to be partnering with SSE Airtricity who pride themselves on providing 100% green energy and together we are helping to improve our environment.
Under this partnership all eligible Honda e customers will receive a free home charging system from SSE Airtricity making the transition to owning an electric car as easy as possible. We all have a part to play in securing our futures and choosing how you power your home or car can make that happen”.
Speaking about the new partnership, Will O’Shaughnessy, SSE Airtricity Energy Services Head of Business Developments, said:
“Everyone at SSE Airtricity is excited to work with a prestigious car manufacturer like Honda. SSE Airtricity and Honda share the same goals in achieving our green ambitions and Honda’s commitment to carbon neutral motoring is truly commendable. As Ireland’s largest provider of 100% green energy and energy related services, this partnership is another important milestone in supporting customers and motorists on their journey to a net zero future.”
Hyundai Tucson (2021) Pricing For Ireland
The 2021 Hyundai Tucson has arrived in Ireland and will go on sale here priced from €32,495 with radical new styling, technology and new electrified powertrains, including hybrid and plug-in hybrid technology for the first time.
The all-new Tucson is the fourth generation of Hyundai’s successful bestseller with more than 7 million units sold around the globe since it launched in 2004. Of these, 1.4 million units have been sold in Europe. That makes it the company’s bestselling SUV globally. In Ireland the Tucson is consistently a top five bestseller and has been a huge success here.
Hyundai’s new compact SUV arrives on the market with a revolutionary new look that follows the company’s new 'Sensuous Sportiness' design identity. There is also a new interior with soft touch materials and a full touchscreen console.
The 2021 Hyundai Tucson is longer and wider than the car it replaces, and the wheelbase has also been increased by 10 mm so passengers can enjoy more space inside the vehicle. Boot space has been increased, offering up to 620 litres overall.
There are three trim levels, Comfort Plus, Executive and Executive Plus, with standard equipment including 17" alloys, heated front seats with electric lumbar support for the driver, automatic lights, high beam assist, reverse parking camera, 8" touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and safety equipment including lane keep assist, driver attention alert and forward collision alert.
The diesel Tucson range uses a 1.6-litre engine and is available from €32,495 rising to €38,245. This model will cost €270 to tax in Ireland.
The new Tucson petrol hybrid is available from €35,995 rising to €41,745. It uses a 1.6-litre petrol engine, electric motor, and 1.49 kWh lithium-ion polymer battery to reduce fuel consumption and lower CO2 emissions. It is paired with a six-speed automatic transmission and motor tax is €210 per year in Ireland for this model.
A plug-in hybrid will join the new Tucson range in 2021.
Kia Ceed SW Plug-in Hybrid Goes On Sale
Kia Motors Ireland is extending their plug-in hybrid range with the arrival of the new Kia Ceed SW (Sportswagon) PHEV, which will be in Kia dealerships when they reopen next month. Based on the practical Kia Ceed SW estate model, the new plug-in hybrid version will use a petrol electric plug-in hybrid powertrain to offer buyers a lower CO2 emitting vehicle.
The new Kia Ceed SW plug-in hybrid will go on sale from €28,450, including the SEAI grant. It uses the same technology as the recently launched Kia XCeed plug-in hybrid, which we reviewed earlier this year on Changing Lanes.
The car is powered by a combination of 1.6-litre petrol engine, 8.9 kWh battery and an electric motor to produce 141 hp and 265 Nm. The powertrain is paired with a six-speed double-clutch automatic transmission. With the ability to charge, buyers can drive the Ceed SW on electric power alone for up to 47 kilometres (WLTP). CO2 emissions are rated at 33 g meaning that the new Ceed SW will qualify for motor tax of €140 in Ireland from January.
Cosmetically, the Ceed PHEV is distinguished by a new closed ‘tiger-nose’ grille at the front of the car to aid aerodynamic efficiency. The charging port is integrated into the left front wing of the car. It comes as standard with 17" aluminium alloy wheels as well as 8” infotainment screen, push button start, electronic parking brake, wireless phone charging and smart cruise control.
The Ceed SW PHEV was engineered from the start to accommodate its new hybrid powertrain, which means that there has been minimal impact on packaging. The 8.9 kWh battery pack is located alongside the 37-litre fuel tank beneath the rear bench, so that it does not take up valuable cargo space. The SW provides 437 litres of luggage space, and up to 1,506 litres with the 40:20:40 split-fold rear seats folded down and a dedicated space beneath the boot floor to store the charging cable when not in use.
The new Kia Ceed SW PHEV will join Kia's growing line-up of electrified vehicles, including the all electric e-Niro and e-Soul, the XCeed plug-in hybrid, the Niro plug-in hybrid, and soon to arrive Kia Sorento plug-in hybrid.
Toyota Highlander Arrives In Ireland
Toyota Ireland has confirmed that the new Toyota Highlander 7 seater SUV has arrived in Ireland, and is available now priced from €63,995.
The new Highlander comes with hybrid technology as standard and intelligent all-wheel drive (AWD-i). There is also a 2-tonne towing capacity from it's 2.5-litre petrol electric powertrain with 244 hp.
Interior features of this high spec vehicle include ventilated front seats, 11-speaker JBL audio* and a 8” multimedia touchscreen featuring navigation and smartphone integration via Apple CarPlay™ and Android Auto™. To help prevent or mitigate collisions, Highlander features the latest Toyota Safety Sense package alongside a head-up display and digital rear-view mirror, depending on trim level.
Toyota says it's an authentic seven-seater with spacious third-row accommodation and easy access for two adults. There is also a kick-sensor operated power tailgate revealing 631 litres of boot space when third row seats now in use, with additional underfloor storage.
CO2 emissions and fuel consumption are quoted from just 149 g/km and 6.6 l/100 km respectively.
For a refined drive the new Toyota Highlander uses an acoustic windscreen and front glazing, and the adoption of roof, dash and floor silencers, and wheel arch and loadspace liners. The Highlander's GA-K platform is complemented by a lightweight and high-rigidity bodyshell with a low centre of gravity that is said to provide the new SUV with nimble handling and comfortable motorway cruising characteristics.
Commenting on the arrival of the all-new Highlander, Steve Tormey, Chief Executive of Toyota Ireland, said:
“The arrival of the Highlander 7-seater hybrid expands our range line-up and, along with the RAV4 and Toyota C-HR, cements our leadership in hybrid SUVs. Equipped with the latest connectivity and safety features, and with space to spare, this will appeal to customers with an active lifestyle and who like to get into the outdoors.
Not only does it offer a truly comfortable ride and has premium features throughout, the Highlander also offers a unique combination of power and lower emissions thanks to the 4th generation hybrid powertrain. This is something more customers are moving towards, especially after the Government budget and the general move towards electrified driving options.
We’re delighted to be able to offer this to our customers, so that they can choose a model that contributes to cleaner air and a better environment for everyone.”
The Highlander will be in showrooms from January and customers can place orders now.
New Car Registrations In Ireland October 2020
The Society of the Irish Motor Industry (SIMI) has released their official new vehicle registrations statistics for Ireland in October 2020. According to the data, new car registrations for October saw an increase of 6.2% (2,315) when compared to October 2019 (2,179).
But registrations year to date are still down 25.2% (86,870) on the same period last year (116,124).
Used car imports for October (9,315) have seen a decrease of 18.7% on October 2019 (11,457). While year to date imports are down 37.7% (58,504) on 2019 (93,892).
The top five bestselling car brands so far in 2020 are 1. Volkswagen, 2. Toyota, 3. Hyundai, 4. Skoda, and 5. Ford.
The top five bestselling car models so far in 2020 are 1. Toyota Corolla, 2. Hyundai Tucson, 3. Volkswagen Tiguan, 4. Ford Focus, and 5. Hyundai Kona.
The bestselling car in October 2020 was the Volkswagen I.D. 3.
Diesel still makes up the majority of new car sales at 43.1%, followed by petrol at 37.12%, hybrid at 11.93%, electric at 4.45% and plug-in hybrid at 2.78%.
Light Commercials Vehicles (LCV) are up 56.2% (1,667) compared to October last year (1,067) and year to date are down 15.3% (20,587). HGV (Heavy Goods Vehicle) registrations are up 15.7% (155) in comparison to October 2019 (134). However, year to date HGVs are down 21.5% (1,951).
Brian Cooke, SIMI Director General commenting:
“October new car and light commercial vehicle registrations are broadly in line with the same month last year. However, like many other retail sectors, overall this year has been hugely difficult due to COVID-19, with new car sales down 25% year to date. With car showrooms closed for the next number of weeks due to Government COVID-19 restrictions, retailers have been enhancing their online presence, particularly with the month of November being the key selling period for forward orders for the new registration plate in January. Manufacturers and retailers are already offering generous incentives for customers to buy a new car. With the ongoing impact of COVID and the impending Brexit deadline fast approaching it is vital that the Government continue to support business in this uncertain trading environment.”