25K for EV

Evnoob

Hi Guys,

Looking to benefit from the wise men of the EV forum! Here's the story. I have €25K coming in a bonus for Christmas. I'm looking at the 0% BIK coming next year and thinking of rolling the dice on it and hoping that it will either be extended after that or come back in 2019 at a token 5% or similar.

I've never bought new before and hate the thought of the depreciation but I I don't know if I can buy 2nd hand and still benefit on the BIK? Also, given that its "before tax" money, I'm looking at it like its like half the normal depreciation. Maybe I could stomach it.

I have an old petrol banger to scrap which is annoying because I sold a diesel banger a few months ago for crap money which would have got me scrappage on an e-golf.

Anyway, I'm looking for recommendations. What would you do? New or 2nd hand? What models?

Our situation is both myself and the wife work less than 10 miles from home and travel together most days. Once or twice a week, round trip on motorway of 50 miles and prob twice a month a round trip on motorway of 75 miles is the rest of it. We'll keep our diesel golf as second car. Things I'm most exited about are smooth, silent, torquey drive of the electric motor and nice gadgets like prewarming the car before getting in on winter mornings.

That's the lot. Any replies very much appreciated.

Dont be at yourself

New Ioniq -- lovely, well-finished car loaded with gadgets. Very comfortable to drive and plenty of range for your needs.

NIMAN

25k bonus.....wish I worked where you do!

ted1

How are the bik and bonus related ?

Isn’t BIK payables on a car that is owned by the company which is available for the employee to use personally

Shefwedfan

BIK would only work if you have your own company and you buy the car for the company. Also in this situation you can buy second hand, you just need to buy the car from the company account.....

If you just have a bonus and you are going to buy a car to try and cheat getting taxed on that amount it will not work.

Evnoob

Sorry I wasn't clear. And yes, not wanting to come across like a dick, I'm obviously very lucky to be in this position. The story is that I don't have a company car but its possible that I could forgoe my bonus and the company will use that money to buy a car which will be owned by the company for my use. I expect that I could sell it in 5 years or so and then be paid the sale price by the company, paying tax on that (albeit smaller) amount.

Shefwedfan

Evnoob wrote: »

Sorry I wasn't clear. And yes, not wanting to come across like a dick, I'm obviously very lucky to be in this position. The story is that I don't have a company car but its possible that I could forgoe my bonus and the company will use that money to buy a car which will be owned by the company for my use. I expect that I could sell it in 5 years or so and then be paid the sale price by the company, paying tax on that (albeit smaller) amount.

Hey, nobody calling you a d**k....fair play to you for working to get the bonus:D

Really you need to talk to company and see do they want to buy new or second hand. I guess as holding for 5 years they might want new but every company has different policies. Do they already provide company cars?

If buying via company I would guess you can't use scrappage but you need to check with accountant in company. Trading in a car could cause issues as the owner of the trade in car will need to be the owner of new car from what I can gather. I stand to be corrected on that.

You need to be careful on BIK, if the government do revert to normal BIK you could be left holding a poison chalice. Only option then is buy the car out of company. So second hand would be perfect as you could say depreciation is high and buy at nominal rate. Get yourself a decent car at decent cost. Again you need to work with accountant on that, what are they willing to sell car at in 1 year.

Alot depends on company policies. I have found the new BIK rule has companies confused....mine included.

I did find when I tried to get my electric car via company(still waiting on answer) they wanted to know about charge points etc. So you need to work that out, do they company provide a charge point? can you install one at home?

Not trying to be negative here....just wanted to make sure you are aware of everything. Don't want to spend your hard earned bonus and then left out of pocket in a year

Evnoob

Shefwedfan wrote: »

If you just have a bonus and you are going to buy a car to try and cheat getting taxed on that amount it will not work.

Am I being really naive here? I see nothing wrong with what I'm suggesting. BIK is in place for this very reason, to stop people dodging tax. They have brought in an exemption to promote EV take up which is exactly what I want to do?

ted1

Evnoob wrote: »

Sorry I wasn't clear. And yes, not wanting to come across like a dick, I'm obviously very lucky to be in this position. The story is that I don't have a company car but its possible that I could forgoe my bonus and the company will use that money to buy a car which will be owned by the company for my use. I expect that I could sell it in 5 years or so and then be paid the sale price by the company, paying tax on that (albeit smaller) amount.

I doubt in 5 years you’ll want to buy it. You’d want the company to upgrade it

Do you are plan to be in the company for 5 years?
If the company own the car who will pay tax and Insurance? As you don’t own the car you can’t insure it.
Who will pay for maintenance and tolls etc?

Sounds like a lot of hassle. Have you got a bonus clause in your contract ? Would the company leave themselves open? If you leave in a year or two you could come back looking for a bonus that wasn’t paid

Evnoob

Shefwedfan wrote: »

Evnoob wrote: »

Sorry I wasn't clear. And yes, not wanting to come across like a dick, I'm obviously very lucky to be in this position. The story is that I don't have a company car but its possible that I could forgoe my bonus and the company will use that money to buy a car which will be owned by the company for my use. I expect that I could sell it in 5 years or so and then be paid the sale price by the company, paying tax on that (albeit smaller) amount.

Hey, nobody calling you a d**k....fair play to you for working to get the bonus:D

Really you need to talk to company and see do they want to buy new or second hand. I guess as holding for 5 years they might want new but every company has different policies. Do they already provide company cars?

If buying via company I would guess you can't use scrappage but you need to check with accountant in company. Trading in a car could cause issues as the owner of the trade in car will need to be the owner of new car from what I can gather. I stand to be corrected on that.

You need to be careful on BIK, if the government do revert to normal BIK you could be left holding a poison chalice. Only option then is buy the car out of company. So second hand would be perfect as you could say depreciation is high and buy at nominal rate. Get yourself a decent car at decent cost. Again you need to work with accountant on that, what are they willing to sell car at in 1 year.

Alot depends on company policies. I have found the new BIK rule has companies confused....mine included.

I did find when I tried to get my electric car via company(still waiting on answer) they wanted to know about charge points etc. So you need to work that out, do they company provide a charge point? can you install one at home?

Not trying to be negative here....just wanted to make sure you are aware of everything. Don't want to spend your hard earned bonus and then left out of pocket in a year

Thanks for this. Some very good points. You are almost certainly correct on the trade in so scrappage is out. I should have thought of that. No bother. I'll flog it cheap privately.

On the poisoned chalice, yep its certainly a possibility but as I've said, I think I'm willing to roll the dice on that one.

No charging points at work but I'll install one at home. I see that as a simple investment. Every house will probably have one in 10 years no doubt.

I'll work through all the details with the company anyway in terms of policy. I was more interested in recommendations either new or used for my budget?

Shefwedfan

Evnoob wrote: »

Thanks for this. Some very good points. You are almost certainly correct on the trade in so scrappage is out. I should have thought of that. No bother. I'll flog it cheap privately.

On the poisoned chalice, yep its certainly a possibility but as I've said, I think I'm willing to roll the dice on that one.

No charging points at work but I'll install one at home. I see that as a simple investment. Every house will probably have one in 10 years no doubt.

I'll work through all the details with the company anyway in terms of policy. I was more interested in recommendations either new or used for my budget?

You can buy eGolf second hand for that, Leaf/Ionq/i3/Zoe all for that money. New you are restricted to low end Leaf really.

What sort of car would you like? You have to drive it after all. You are making a big investment for a number of years, no point taking a car which in a few months you will hate driving.

Evnoob

ted1 wrote: »

Evnoob wrote: »

Sorry I wasn't clear. And yes, not wanting to come across like a dick, I'm obviously very lucky to be in this position. The story is that I don't have a company car but its possible that I could forgoe my bonus and the company will use that money to buy a car which will be owned by the company for my use. I expect that I could sell it in 5 years or so and then be paid the sale price by the company, paying tax on that (albeit smaller) amount.

I doubt in 5 years you’ll want to buy it. You’d want the company to upgrade it

Do you are plan to be in the company for 5 years?
If the company own the car who will pay tax and Insurance? As you don’t own the car you can’t insure it.
Who will pay for maintenance and tolls etc?

Sounds like a lot of hassle. Have you got a bonus clause in your contract ? Would the company leave themselves open? If you leave in a year or two you could come back looking for a bonus that wasn’t paid

I will have to agree up front that I can "cash out" at any stage. i.e. Sell the car and get paid the sale price as income. If BIK returns at 30% I couldn't justify keeping it even 1 year at that rate.

Maintenance and tax would be paid by me and deducted from any BIK.

Insurance would have to be held by the company I suppose. Its a small company and very flexible so all kinks can be worked out but thanks for flagging this to make me aware.

Wheety

Try driving a few EVs. If you're in Dublin, sign up to GoCar and try the BMW i3. It's a great drive.

737max

negotiate now for the best equipped current model Leaf you can find in the network to be delivered in the new year and 25k appears to be your limit and not necessarily a target which must be hit.
Zoe can be considered a highly refined spacious supermini if you can manage to live with a supermini.

Evnoob

Planning to drive e-golf and leaf this weekend. I've never driven an EV so can't wait. Zoe is out for me I reckon for being a bit slow and having a basic interior from what I've read. Size not a major factor for me though.

Now that the BIK looks to be good for 3 years minimum, the pressure is off. I might wait for the new leaf. I could push the budget to 28K if needed. But at the moment I'm thinking better value in a 2016 Tekna leaf or a slightly older i3 with the smaller battery. Both as UK imports. Thoughts?

thierry14

Evnoob wrote: »

Planning to drive e-golf and leaf this weekend. I've never driven an EV so can't wait. Zoe is out for me I reckon for being a bit slow and having a basic interior from what I've read. Size not a major factor for me though.

Now that the BIK looks to be good for 3 years minimum, the pressure is off. I might wait for the new leaf. I could push the budget to 28K if needed. But at the moment I'm thinking better value in a 2016 Tekna leaf or a slightly older i3 with the smaller battery. Both as UK imports. Thoughts?

New Leaf has 150bhp and is out in March

Forum rumours saying it does 0-60 in low 7s, feels genuinely quick.

Will be the best value EV of 2018 imo

Should get it for 28k

Shefwedfan

Evnoob wrote: »

Planning to drive e-golf and leaf this weekend. I've never driven an EV so can't wait. Zoe is out for me I reckon for being a bit slow and having a basic interior from what I've read. Size not a major factor for me though.

Now that the BIK looks to be good for 3 years minimum, the pressure is off. I might wait for the new leaf. I could push the budget to 28K if needed. But at the moment I'm thinking better value in a 2016 Tekna leaf or a slightly older i3 with the smaller battery. Both as UK imports. Thoughts?

I might be selling my eGolf in a few weeks if I could ever get my lease company to quote me on a new one :-)

Evnoob

Will have to keep an eye on that so. I would love one of the newer eGolfs for that bit of extra range but 36k seems very pricey. I'm very happy with my diesel Golf at the moment. Its a lovely drive but I don't think I could justify the additional cost.

Evnoob

thierry14 wrote: »

Evnoob wrote: »

Planning to drive e-golf and leaf this weekend. I've never driven an EV so can't wait. Zoe is out for me I reckon for being a bit slow and having a basic interior from what I've read. Size not a major factor for me though.

Now that the BIK looks to be good for 3 years minimum, the pressure is off. I might wait for the new leaf. I could push the budget to 28K if needed. But at the moment I'm thinking better value in a 2016 Tekna leaf or a slightly older i3 with the smaller battery. Both as UK imports. Thoughts?

New Leaf has 150bhp and is out in March

Forum rumours saying it does 0-60 in low 7s, feels genuinely quick.

Will be the best value EV of 2018 imo

Should get it for 28k

Strange that the i3 isn't quicker in that case with an extra 20 bhp and a lighter frame so you would expect better power to weight ratio? It must be severely limited.

Shefwedfan

Evnoob wrote: »

Will have to keep an eye on that so. I would love one of the newer eGolfs for that bit of extra range but 36k seems very pricey. I'm very happy with my diesel Golf at the moment. Its a lovely drive but I don't think I could justify the additional cost.

Mine is 151, absolutely love it but I was on company car before and to be honest would prefer to move back if possible. The BIK was killer before so that is removed I will just move back.

Company don't provide second hand so I have to buy new...no other option. Issue at the moment is they are having problems quoting a eGolf. They are working on it anyway.....

I swapped A6 for the eGolf but I had a diesel 2.0ltr Golf before that. I prefer to eGolf. A lot better drive.......its more fun to drive

Evnoob

So guys I did all my homework yesterday and had 4 test drives back to back. My thoughts were:

1) 2014 BMW i3 22KWh:
Incredible to drive. Like a go-kart. Great power and fantastic steering. On the downside, I thought the interior was pretty ugly. The carbon fibre doesn't look great IMO. Anyway, the other half put her foot down and said no way. The brilliant driving experience doesn't mean much to her so can't justify the cost for an ugly car.

2) 2017 Nissan Leaf SV with cold pack:
I was a bit meh on the drive. Power was decent, certainly enough for me, but it all feels a little bit spongy. Good interior spec in terms of of gadgets, which I do like but tinny doors and nasty plastic switches make it feel a bit cheap. Comfy seats though.

3) 2017 Renault Zoe (41KWh):
Not in the running at all. Very small, particularly in the back but too narrow overall meaning the front feels cramped. And I'm not tall! Low on power, not compared to ICE cars in its class obviously, but compared to any of these other EVs. Steering was too light for me. Similar interior to Leaf - a little bit cheap feeling. The big range is all it has going for it and that's not a requirement for me. Massively overpriced in my opinion.

4) 2017 eGolf:
Pick of the bunch for me. Brilliant drive. The BMW maybe very slightly better but really nothing in it. Very classy interior and nice exterior looks too. Problem is I can't afford this car! I drove the 2017 model because the 2015 wasn't charged and there is a minor power and torque upgrade between the two. Not sure how much difference this will make though.

Anyway, I'm left trying to decide whether to go with a Leaf or an eGolf for the next year or so with a view to getting into that 2017 model eGolf or the new Leaf depending on which is better in the future. I'm wondering whether you think the 30KWh Leaf will hold its value better than the 24KWh over the next 2 years? I expect that it would? I'm tempted to go for the 2015 eGolf (pending a test drive) either but don't know how its value will hold up? There are so few of them. The Leaf is fairly mainstream now so it feels like a safer bet in that regard. Am I wrong?

Lastly, I couldn't find an Ioniq to drive. If anyone could tell me where they feel it fits in the pecking order?

Any input/advice very much appreciated.

thecomedian

I agree with you completely.
I drove the E Golf yesterday and I thought it was excellent. Just costs too much.
I didn’t test the Bmw or Zoe yet because of the same reasons as you said and I drove the Leaf a few years ago but I didn’t like it as a car.

thierry14

Evnoob wrote: »

So guys I did all my homework yesterday and had 4 test drives back to back. My thoughts were:

1) 2014 BMW i3 22KWh:
Incredible to drive. Like a go-kart. Great power and fantastic steering. On the downside, I thought the interior was pretty ugly. The carbon fibre doesn't look great IMO. Anyway, the other half put her foot down and said no way. The brilliant driving experience doesn't mean much to her so can't justify the cost for an ugly car.

2) 2017 Nissan Leaf SV with cold pack:
I was a bit meh on the drive. Power was decent, certainly enough for me, but it all feels a little bit spongy. Good interior spec in terms of of gadgets, which I do like but tinny doors and nasty plastic switches make it feel a bit cheap. Comfy seats though.

3) 2017 Renault Zoe (41KWh):
Not in the running at all. Very small, particularly in the back but too narrow overall meaning the front feels cramped. And I'm not tall! Low on power, not compared to ICE cars in its class obviously, but compared to any of these other EVs. Steering was too light for me. Similar interior to Leaf - a little bit cheap feeling. The big range is all it has going for it and that's not a requirement for me. Massively overpriced in my opinion.

4) 2017 eGolf:
Pick of the bunch for me. Brilliant drive. The BMW maybe very slightly better but really nothing in it. Very classy interior and nice exterior looks too. Problem is I can't afford this car! I drove the 2017 model because the 2015 wasn't charged and there is a minor power and torque upgrade between the two. Not sure how much difference this will make though.

Anyway, I'm left trying to decide whether to go with a Leaf or an eGolf for the next year or so with a view to getting into that 2017 model eGolf or the new Leaf depending on which is better in the future. I'm wondering whether you think the 30KWh Leaf will hold its value better than the 24KWh over the next 2 years? I expect that it would? I'm tempted to go for the 2015 eGolf (pending a test drive) either but don't know how its value will hold up? There are so few of them. The Leaf is fairly mainstream now so it feels like a safer bet in that regard. Am I wrong?

Lastly, I couldn't find an Ioniq to drive. If anyone could tell me where they feel it fits in the pecking order?

Any input/advice very much appreciated.

Think Leaf 2018 will be number 1 on your list for price

With 150bhp, 40% power increase it won't feel a lot different from the i3 in straight line.

thierry14

I do think you could get a bargain on a new old model Leaf though

They are giving 5000 scrappage and pretty sure you could get sales guy down to 20-21k

That would be 15-16k for a 30kwh new EV

No one is going go be buying the old model Leaf with new one due early next year

I would try a few different garages and bargain hard

thierry14

I will be going Monday morning in Limerick to test drive, will see how low they can go

I would do 15-16k cash with 5000 scrappage for 04 tdi on the Leaf 30kwh model

Would be a great car at that price and do me till Tesla arrives in 2020

I see they are 25k list which is madness with new one out for same price

I don't think you'll find Leaf 40 kwh as fast as an I3, RWD of the I3 will make a difference and it's lighter, it certainly won't be a match for the I3 S, it's not just the 0-100, it's the 80-120+ that makes the difference.

It will make the Leaf a lot more fun for sure. The handling of the I3 is also really good and the steering has much more feel than the current Leaf so it remains to be seen whether they re tune the chassis and steering.

Shefwedfan

Evnoob wrote: »

4) 2017 eGolf:
Pick of the bunch for me. Brilliant drive. The BMW maybe very slightly better but really nothing in it. Very classy interior and nice exterior looks too. Problem is I can't afford this car! I drove the 2017 model because the 2015 wasn't charged and there is a minor power and torque upgrade between the two. Not sure how much difference this will make though.

Anyway, I'm left trying to decide whether to go with a Leaf or an eGolf for the next year or so with a view to getting into that 2017 model eGolf or the new Leaf depending on which is better in the future. I'm wondering whether you think the 30KWh Leaf will hold its value better than the 24KWh over the next 2 years? I expect that it would? I'm tempted to go for the 2015 eGolf (pending a test drive) either but don't know how its value will hold up? There are so few of them. The Leaf is fairly mainstream now so it feels like a safer bet in that regard. Am I wrong?

Lastly, I couldn't find an Ioniq to drive. If anyone could tell me where they feel it fits in the pecking order?

Any input/advice very much appreciated.

Wrong on Leaf....

Leaf will not hold its value. This is because Nissan constantly drop the price to try and sell off old stock.....even a 30KW will not hold it's value. Expect the price to drop like a rock once the new one comes out....they are selling brand new SVE 24KW for 20k now.....see Thierry14 posts below for all you need to know about Leaf and holding its value

Check the UK for eGolf sales and they are holding value decent....from what I can see VW are holding the price on second hand eGolf where possible....check UK and US and the eGolf is holding its value....I asked about a trade in earlier this year and was surprised at the decent price I got with too much negotiations...that was against a 17 model.....

I haven't had the chance to drive the 17 eGolf yet but the 15 model does not lack any power. I love the drive, the 17 model does have a bigger touch screen etc so must go and take one for a spin....

LOL when I asked Joe Duffy about the Leaf and what they'd give me for it they said they wouldn't even have it on the lot because it's a Nissan, they'll sell it to the trade to get rid of it asap.

So the German cars naturally hold their value a lot better, they are more desirable, the Leaf should be judged based on the diesel Pulsar or note. the I3 for instance, so much better quality and much better to drive and people will pay for it.

peposhi

Evnoob wrote: »

So guys I did all my homework yesterday and had 4 test drives back to back. My thoughts were:

1) 2014 BMW i3 22KWh:
Incredible to drive. Like a go-kart. Great power and fantastic steering. On the downside, I thought the interior was pretty ugly. The carbon fibre doesn't look great IMO. Anyway, the other half put her foot down and said no way. The brilliant driving experience doesn't mean much to her so can't justify the cost for an ugly car.

2) 2017 Nissan Leaf SV with cold pack:
I was a bit meh on the drive. Power was decent, certainly enough for me, but it all feels a little bit spongy. Good interior spec in terms of of gadgets, which I do like but tinny doors and nasty plastic switches make it feel a bit cheap. Comfy seats though.

3) 2017 Renault Zoe (41KWh):
Not in the running at all. Very small, particularly in the back but too narrow overall meaning the front feels cramped. And I'm not tall! Low on power, not compared to ICE cars in its class obviously, but compared to any of these other EVs. Steering was too light for me. Similar interior to Leaf - a little bit cheap feeling. The big range is all it has going for it and that's not a requirement for me. Massively overpriced in my opinion.

4) 2017 eGolf:
Pick of the bunch for me. Brilliant drive. The BMW maybe very slightly better but really nothing in it. Very classy interior and nice exterior looks too. Problem is I can't afford this car! I drove the 2017 model because the 2015 wasn't charged and there is a minor power and torque upgrade between the two. Not sure how much difference this will make though.

Anyway, I'm left trying to decide whether to go with a Leaf or an eGolf for the next year or so with a view to getting into that 2017 model eGolf or the new Leaf depending on which is better in the future. I'm wondering whether you think the 30KWh Leaf will hold its value better than the 24KWh over the next 2 years? I expect that it would? I'm tempted to go for the 2015 eGolf (pending a test drive) either but don't know how its value will hold up? There are so few of them. The Leaf is fairly mainstream now so it feels like a safer bet in that regard. Am I wrong?

Lastly, I couldn't find an Ioniq to drive. If anyone could tell me where they feel it fits in the pecking order?

Any input/advice very much appreciated.

If you had driven the Leaf before the i3, you would been lees critical towards it Leaf is a workhorse meant for the mass(Android if you like), i3 is a sleek looking, very sharp boy (like an iPhone?)

Although i3 is a superb car I’d still got for a Leaf - mainly for the great value and reliability it can offer.

Zoe - meh, but that’s just me.

eGolf - excellent, but cost is way above its real value.

I drove iOniq before I made the move to a 30kwh Leaf from a 24kwh Leaf. I have to say - I loved it. It makes the Lead feel outdated. At the end of the day there’s 6 years difference between the models.
I was so impressed with the iOniq that I would have bought it the next day after the day’s test drive, but the figures were ferocious, so decided against it.
Got 1 year old 30kwh SVE Leaf instead for like €10k less than the price of a new.
(I I’d suggest to try an SVE Leaf, it feels so much better compared to the SV).

As for the resale value... anything you buy now would nearly worthless in the next 5-6 years. The technology develops that quick that it is impossible to predict.

So get the car you like the most, enjoy it and replace it when the time comes

Leaf 40 Kwh should offer 250 and maybe more Km range though at what speed is unknown yet.

I3 Rex is unlimited as long as you got petrol in the small tank. 7 liters I think. It does offer much greater peace of mind motoring and the ability to take it anywhere especially given our poor CCS charging infrastructure and scattered chargers and not to mention if there is someone using a charger or worse, two in front of you which has happened me more than a few occasions at Naas.

On A long trip with cranky screaming kids in the back you don't want to be stopping for 30+ mins if you don't have to, but the extra range of the 40 kwh leaf should prove a lot more useful than the 110-120 Km range of my 24 Kwh Leaf @ 100 Kph.

It's a real shame Nissan didn't take the opportunity to allow it to charge faster if you are plugged into a charger greater than 50 Kw. I guess they want to try play it safe in hot climates with 0 cooling. Which still cook Leaf batteries.

peposhi

Just to add that if I was in the market for a new car in 181 - the new Leaf is offering much better value than any current Zoe, i3, iOniq, eGolf...
A little stretch above your 25k may well set you a nice 181 40kw Leaf with plenty of bits and bobs to be happy about...

Evnoob

thierry14 wrote: »

I do think you could get a bargain on a new old model Leaf though

They are giving 5000 scrappage and pretty sure you could get sales guy down to 20-21k

That would be 15-16k for a 30kwh new EV

No one is going go be buying the old model Leaf with new one due early next year

I would try a few different garages and bargain hard

Scrappage is out for me as the new car will be a company car in my company's name so they won't take my own banger (in my name).

Evnoob

Deleted User wrote: »

I don't think you'll find Leaf 40 kwh as fast as an I3, RWD of the I3 will make a difference and it's lighter, it certainly won't be a match for the I3 S, it's not just the 0-100, it's the 80-120+ that makes the difference.

It will make the Leaf a lot more fun for sure. The handling of the I3 is also really good and the steering has much more feel than the current Leaf so it remains to be seen whether they re tune the chassis and steering.

Yea straight line speed isn't a major thing for me I suppose. I think the current Leaf's pickup would even be fine. But I do like direct steering, good handling, suspension, tight brakes etc.

The I3 doesn't feel that different to the Leaf until about 80 Kph where the I3 would leave the Leaf for dust. It makes a big difference, I over took in situations I would not dare in a Leaf.

Evnoob

Shefwedfan wrote: »

Wrong on Leaf....

Leaf will not hold its value. This is because Nissan constantly drop the price to try and sell off old stock.....even a 30KW will not hold it's value. Expect the price to drop like a rock once the new one comes out....they are selling brand new SVE 24KW for 20k now.....see Thierry14 posts below for all you need to know about Leaf and holding its value

Check the UK for eGolf sales and they are holding value decent....from what I can see VW are holding the price on second hand eGolf where possible....check UK and US and the eGolf is holding its value....I asked about a trade in earlier this year and was surprised at the decent price I got with too much negotiations...that was against a 17 model.....

I haven't had the chance to drive the 17 eGolf yet but the 15 model does not lack any power. I love the drive, the 17 model does have a bigger touch screen etc so must go and take one for a spin....

Deleted User wrote: »

LOL when I asked Joe Duffy about the Leaf and what they'd give me for it they said they wouldn't even have it on the lot because it's a Nissan, they'll sell it to the trade to get rid of it asap.

So the German cars naturally hold their value a lot better, they are more desirable, the Leaf should be judged based on the diesel Pulsar or note. the I3 for instance, so much better quality and much better to drive and people will pay for it.

Interesting. I would have expected a general shift in consumer behaviour over the next while in which new customers getting into EVs will see that the new models have 40Kwh (and soon 60Kwh) batteries and decide that by comparison 22Kwh, 24Kwh are just too far behind the "current tech"? Different ways of looking at it I suppose.

Shefwedfan

Evnoob wrote: »

Interesting. I would have expected a general shift in consumer behaviour over the next while in which new customers getting into EVs will see that the new models have 40Kwh (and soon 60Kwh) batteries and decide that by comparison 22Kwh, 24Kwh are just too far behind the "current tech"? Different ways of looking at it I suppose.

I have said it many many times, the issue in Ireland is not range, it is lack of education of buyers/seller.

I have a longer commute than most into my office as I live outside of Dublin in another county but right on border. But I still can go work, visit a few customers, get home and still have plenty in tank if I need to collect kids etc

Why would I buy a buy a lesser car for a few extra KM's and then hate driving the thing.....I love the eGolf and it has more than enough range for anything I need.....even the weekend spins to parents which is circa 100km away I now do in eGolf and leave the diesel at home

Evnoob

peposhi wrote: »

If you had driven the Leaf before the i3, you would been lees critical towards it Leaf is a workhorse meant for the mass(Android if you like), i3 is a sleek looking, very sharp boy (like an iPhone?)

Although i3 is a superb car I’d still got for a Leaf - mainly for the great value and reliability it can offer.

Zoe - meh, but that’s just me.

eGolf - excellent, but cost is way above its real value.

I drove iOniq before I made the move to a 30kwh Leaf from a 24kwh Leaf. I have to say - I loved it. It makes the Lead feel outdated. At the end of the day there’s 6 years difference between the models.
I was so impressed with the iOniq that I would have bought it the next day after the day’s test drive, but the figures were ferocious, so decided against it.
Got 1 year old 30kwh SVE Leaf instead for like €10k less than the price of a new.
(I I’d suggest to try an SVE Leaf, it feels so much better compared to the SV).

As for the resale value... anything you buy now would nearly worthless in the next 5-6 years. The technology develops that quick that it is impossible to predict.

So get the car you like the most, enjoy it and replace it when the time comes

Thanks for this. Great comments. Incidentally, the order of the drives was Leaf, Golf, i3 and then Zoe!

I'm really torn between the eGolf and Leaf at the moment. I have to drive the 2015 model eGolf and probably a Tekna spec Leaf to do a proper, fair comparison. I'm now thinking that I want to get the purchase price down to between 15 and 20K so second hand Leaf as opposed to new. I'm looking at autotrader and the classifieds on the UK speakev forum to try to get a feel what for what "good value" looks like for those models. The lack of eGolfs available makes it difficult to do.

Evnoob

Shefwedfan wrote: »

I have said it many many times, the issue in Ireland is not range, it is lack of education of buyers/seller.

I have a longer commute than most into my office as I live outside of Dublin in another county but right on border. But I still can go work, visit a few customers, get home and still have plenty in tank if I need to collect kids etc

Why would I buy a buy a lesser car for a few extra KM's and then hate driving the thing.....I love the eGolf and it has more than enough range for anything I need.....even the weekend spins to parents which is circa 100km away I now do in eGolf and leave the diesel at home

Yea my commute is tiny so range unimportant as I've said. Incidentally, how do you handle those weekend trips? My folks are about 60Km away. Do you use the public charge network? Whats the charging speed like? Am I right in thinking that the eGolf only has the one option for on board charger, 3.3Kw?

Evnoob

Deleted User wrote: »

The I3 doesn't feel that different to the Leaf until about 80 Kph where the I3 would leave the Leaf for dust. It makes a big difference, I over took in situations I would not dare in a Leaf.

I didn't drive any of them on a motorway so good to have some info on higher end speed. Thanks for this.

I am trying to ease off on my driving to be honest though. I'm still a bit too aggressive and its time I started copping on I reckon. Tonnes of power available at high speed would only encourage me!

I would have great craic with the i3 on a track though.

I wasn't going above about 110 Km/h on the Motorway in the I3 but there are times I put the foot down to get into the fast lane, yes it makes a big difference but in particular back roads where there is 1-3 cars in front doing 60-80, this in my opinion is far more important than bragging about 0-100 times.

Shefwedfan

Shefwedfan wrote: »

I have said it many many times, the issue in Ireland is not range, it is lack of education of buyers/seller.

I have a longer commute than most into my office as I live outside of Dublin in another county but right on border. But I still can go work, visit a few customers, get home and still have plenty in tank if I need to collect kids etc

Why would I buy a buy a lesser car for a few extra KM's and then hate driving the thing.....I love the eGolf and it has more than enough range for anything I need.....even the weekend spins to parents which is circa 100km away I now do in eGolf and leave the diesel at home

I've driven the Leaf 3 years and work has 12 EV spaces, and in this time there are only 2 EV and 2 plug in drivers despite me also having one of the longer commutes.

Range and time to charge are huge concerns for people.

peposhi

Evnoob wrote: »

Thanks for this. Great comments. Incidentally, the order of the drives was Leaf, Golf, i3 and then Zoe!

I'm really torn between the eGolf and Leaf at the moment. I have to drive the 2015 model eGolf and probably a Tekna spec Leaf to do a proper, fair comparison. I'm now thinking that I want to get the purchase price down to between 15 and 20K so second hand Leaf as opposed to new. I'm looking at autotrader and the classifieds on the UK speakev forum to try to get a feel what for what "good value" looks like for those models. The lack of eGolfs available makes it difficult to do.

If you are going for a €15-20k car (not sure if I said it to you before), go to Phil Fitzgerald in Naas. A true gent who will look after you properly. Tell him what you want, give him a few weeks and he’ll source and deliver the right car. The price bracket you mentioned would definitely get you a 30kwh SVE, 6.6kw Leaf with a low mileage.
Phil had mine delivered at 8 in the evening and registered directly on my name the very next morning, plus got sorted cables (10m “ICE Breaker”), granny cable, would have and is still willing to contribute towards exchanging my home charger.
Shefwedfan got his eGolf from him. I think it was the first or the second eGolf in the country if I remember correctly... could be wrong here.
From your daily driving routine description - both 1 or 2 years old eGolf and a Leaf would be perfect for you.

I’d leave you to try my SVE if you were in Laois area. I never liked leather saloon - until I got one, never liked the heated seats - until I got them, the SVE headlights are miles better than the SV one, 4 cameras... love 💕 it ...

I emailed Glendalough National Park back in 2015 and they said they'd forward my email to their Senior Architect who looks after the Visitor Centre car park.

The Upper Lake car park is owned by Wicklow County Council.

And 3 years later..........

Evnoob

peposhi wrote: »

Evnoob wrote: »

Thanks for this. Great comments. Incidentally, the order of the drives was Leaf, Golf, i3 and then Zoe!

I'm really torn between the eGolf and Leaf at the moment. I have to drive the 2015 model eGolf and probably a Tekna spec Leaf to do a proper, fair comparison. I'm now thinking that I want to get the purchase price down to between 15 and 20K so second hand Leaf as opposed to new. I'm looking at autotrader and the classifieds on the UK speakev forum to try to get a feel what for what "good value" looks like for those models. The lack of eGolfs available makes it difficult to do.

If you are going for a €15-20k car (not sure if I said it to you before), go to Phil Fitzgerald in Naas. A true gent who will look after you properly. Tell him what you want, give him a few weeks and he’ll source and deliver the right car. The price bracket you mentioned would definitely get you a 30kwh SVE, 6.6kw Leaf with a low mileage.
Phil had mine delivered at 8 in the evening and registered directly on my name the very next morning, plus got sorted cables (10m “ICE Breaker”), granny cable, would have and is still willing to contribute towards exchanging my home charger.
Shefwedfan got his eGolf from him. I think it was the first or the second eGolf in the country if I remember correctly... could be wrong here.
From your daily driving routine description - both 1 or 2 years old eGolf and a Leaf would be perfect for you.

I’d leave you to try my SVE if you were in Laois area. I never liked leather saloon - until I got one, never liked the heated seats - until I got them, the SVE headlights are miles better than the SV one, 4 cameras... love 💕 it ...

Thanks a million for this. Both the recommendation and the offer of a test drive. Very decent of you.

Shefwedfan

Evnoob wrote: »

Yea my commute is tiny so range unimportant as I've said. Incidentally, how do you handle those weekend trips? My folks are about 60Km away. Do you use the public charge network? Whats the charging speed like? Am I right in thinking that the eGolf only has the one option for on board charger, 3.3Kw?

They are about 100km door to door away. Majority is on motorway and then down the N road. I stick to 110km on motorway and then 100km on the N road. I get to location with at least 20-30km left is not more.....that is on a cold wet day

On a nice warm day you can zoom along at 120km no issue.....the eGolf in terms of range loves warm weather.....maybe why so many in California buy them :P

I don't use the public network at all, since buying in March I have used a total of 2-3 times. I charge at home, then I have granny cable in boot so when I get to any other location I just plug it in.....

I think it only has 3.3kw, standard charger at home I am not sure exactly how long it takes, just I set it up so it is ready in morning....

On public charging it took 20 mins to get above 80% with only about 30km left in it but that is very high level as I dont use the public charging

Granny cable from 2km to full takes 9hrs......

thierry14

Evnoob wrote: »

Scrappage is out for me as the new car will be a company car in my company's name so they won't take my own banger (in my name).

Ahh

Deal they are offering is 17.5k after scrappage of 5k for 30kWh SV model

Thought would get it cheaper with new model out soon, not bad though

Evnoob

Shefwedfan wrote: »

Evnoob wrote: »

Yea my commute is tiny so range unimportant as I've said. Incidentally, how do you handle those weekend trips? My folks are about 60Km away. Do you use the public charge network? Whats the charging speed like? Am I right in thinking that the eGolf only has the one option for on board charger, 3.3Kw?

They are about 100km door to door away. Majority is on motorway and then down the N road. I stick to 110km on motorway and then 100km on the N road. I get to location with at least 20-30km left is not more.....that is on a cold wet day

On a nice warm day you can zoom along at 120km no issue.....the eGolf in terms of range loves warm weather.....maybe why so many in California buy them :P

I don't use the public network at all, since buying in March I have used a total of 2-3 times. I charge at home, then I have granny cable in boot so when I get to any other location I just plug it in.....

I think it only has 3.3kw, standard charger at home I am not sure exactly how long it takes, just I set it up so it is ready in morning....

On public charging it took 20 mins to get above 80% with only about 30km left in it but that is very high level as I dont use the public charging

Granny cable from 2km to full takes 9hrs......

Thanks for this. Great to hear. I'm not long on the forum but from what I can see, you're the only eGolf owner.

Would you be willing to lay out the details? When you bought with what spec and mileage for what price. What you were offered for trade in if you are willing to share? Pm me if you don't want to share in public. Or tell me to f off for being nosey if you would rather keep it to yourself!

Shefwedfan

Evnoob wrote: »

Thanks for this. Great to hear. I'm not long on the forum but from what I can see, you're the only eGolf owner.

Would you be willing to lay out the details? When you bought with what spec and mileage for what price. What you were offered for trade in if you are willing to share? Pm me if you don't want to share in public. Or tell me to f off for being nosey if you would rather keep it to yourself!

Most of the info on here, have a read and anything else give me a shout
https://www.boards.ie/vbulletin/showthread.php?t=2057723422

Evnoob

Great read. Thanks for this. Could you share mileage? And recent trade in price offered as you mentioned that you had investigated this in a recent post?

gally74

Evnoob wrote: »

Yea my commute is tiny so range unimportant as I've said. Incidentally, how do you handle those weekend trips? My folks are about 60Km away. Do you use the public charge network? Whats the charging speed like? Am I right in thinking that the eGolf only has the one option for on board charger, 3.3Kw?

Why not try a Smurf. I'm very impressed with mine...

Shefwedfan

Evnoob wrote: »

Great read. Thanks for this. Could you share mileage? And recent trade in price offered as you mentioned that you had investigated this in a recent post?

Will PM you later on today