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Grassland increases market share, revenues up again in multiple markets and in spare parts Despite a multitude of global challenges in the agricultural machinery industry, Pöttinger Landtechnik GmbH in Grieskirchen (Upper Austria) delivered a solid result in the financial year 2024/25 (reporting date 31 July). Unprecedented economic, political, and environmental factors made business planning more difficult, although the planned level of revenue was in fact achieved. What is particularly pleasing is the increase in market share in the grassland segment.  Years of extreme growth (2021/22 up 25 percent to around EUR 506 million, 2022/23 up 27 percent to around EUR 641 million) were followed by a period of reluctance to purchase due to full warehouses at dealerships and other investments being brought forward. Following up from EUR 491 million in the previous year, revenue in the financial year 2024/25 is around EUR 461 million (down 6 percent). Key sales markets such as Germany and France are slowly beginning to stabilise, with some countries showing significant growth in sales in many segments.  A leading global agricultural machinery brand Around 57 percent of machinery sales is achieved in Germany, France, Austria, Poland, Ukraine, and Switzerland. The export ratio has remained stable for many years at around 90 percent. The ability to supply spare parts quickly is a decisive success factor for farming businesses of all sizes. That is why the ORIGINAL PARTS division is so important for Pöttinger. With 15 of its own service centres and countless service partners, Pöttinger reliably supplies customers on five continents with spare parts, service support, and training.  Sustainable and appreciative cooperation The strong fluctuations in demand over recent years have made production scheduling a challenge. As in the previous year, the period of low manufacturing utilisation in the summer was also bridged in financial year 2024/2025 by short, temporary leave for employees in production. Thanks to these and other human resources measures, such as not filling positions that became vacant due to natural fluctuation and reducing the amount of accrued vacation time, Pöttinger has been able to retain most of its permanent employees. The workforce currently consists of around 2,100 employees from 36 nations. Around 1,200 work in Austria, around 400 in the Czech Republic, around 200 in Germany, around 80 in Italy, and the remaining 200 work at Pöttinger subsidiaries around the world.  The company's principles of partnership and sustainability are also reflected in the average length of employment of 11.7 years, which is well above the Austrian average.  In terms of the economy and the environment, the company is also committed to sustainability and maintaining its responsibility. Recent years have seen significant investments in conserving resources and the environment. As a family business, Pöttinger has been deeply rooted in its local surroundings since 1871. Partnership and authenticity Pöttinger manufactures state-of-the-art agricultural machinery at five production sites and, as a result, makes an important contribution to ensuring food security for the world's population. Two manufacturing sites are located in Austria (Grieskirchen and St. Georgen bei Grieskirchen), one is in Germany (Bernburg), one is in the Czech Republic (Vodňany), and one is in Italy (San Vito al Tagliamento). Pöttinger's innovative machines are sold worldwide through agricultural machinery dealerships. Employees, dealers, and suppliers act as a team, working together to achieve success together. Agricultural technology for successful farming Pöttinger is a pioneer of digital agricultural technology and manufactures intelligent, networked machines for efficient, successful farming. Grassland technology is still the most important segment, accounting for around 55 percent of total sales. The JUMBO 5000 is a powerful high-performance loader wagon that Pöttinger launched on the market during the last financial year. The new HIT V ALPIN tedder is ideal for working on steep ground. With the TOP VT 6820 S and the TOP VT 12540 C, Pöttinger has developed a reliable twin-rotor rake and a compactly designed four-rotor rake. Among the mowers, the NOVACAT F OPTICURVE turned heads. The automatic, arc-path side shift won Pöttinger the AgrarTech Gold award.  In the tillage and seed segment, the AEROSEM VT and AEROSEM FDD are innovations in seed drill technology. While the SERVO 2000 and SERVO 4000 are two new ploughs that have been launched on the market. The new FOX 3000 D disc harrow and the new LION V 6040 6-metre-wide power harrow are the latest seedbed preparation machines. The PLANO VT 6060 sees Pöttinger enter the shallow cultivator segment. In sowing technology, the development of precision seed drills is progressing with innovations on board the AEROSEM series of pneumatic seed drills. With its extensive product portfolio and the promise of "the best working results", Pöttinger remains a strong partner for successful farming. "The past financial year, with its crises and uncertainties, has asked everybody at Pöttinger to go above and beyond. That is why each success counts all the more: Together as a strong team, we have been able to meet our target, and in the grassland segment we have managed to increase our market share in the face of tough competition. You can really see that our innovative strength, partnership, a sense of responsibility, and sustainable business practices are paying off," says Gregor Dietachmayr, Speaker of the Executive Board, satisfied with the result of financial year 2024/2025, despite the general downturn in revenues.

Choosing the right family car is one of the most important purchases many people make. Safety will always come first of course. Alongside this however families need space for buggies, bikes, babies and more. Then there’s costs to contend with. Not just the up-front cost of a vehicle, but the ongoing maintenance and fuel costs need to be factored into stretched monthly budgets too.  So, when it comes to choosing the right vehicle, there’s no one-size-fits-all solution. Different families will have different needs based on their own circumstances. Maybe you live in the city and need something small that can zip around town or perhaps something a bit sturdier for getting out into the Irish countryside? Do you need a car for ferrying toddlers or teens? Do you need space for a furry friend in the back? All these questions and more will be important when choosing the right car for your family.  Thankfully, there is a growing range of options available. A more diverse financial services landscape in Ireland means a greater range of vehicles are now within reach of Irish families, despite a challenging few years where inflation has put pressure on family budgets.  Check out our virtual showroom on DoneDeal  today where you can find the ideal car and finance solution for your family. Apply for finance directly from the car advert and receive a decision in less than 30 minutes, sometimes seconds*. To give you some inspiration, here are some of our favourite family cars!   The Skoda Octavia is a good value car with plenty of space for the whole clan. There’s also plenty of storage for family paraphernalia and this is a safe, comfortable drive.  The Kia Sportage likewise boasts plenty of space, safety and high-tech driving. Not only that but this is a good value vehicle and some models come with dedicated child seat features.  With seating for five, child seats and plenty of boot space, the Hyundai Tucson is another great choice for both family road trips and more everyday tasks like the grocery run! The infotainment system is also great for keeping the kids in the back entertained!  *Terms and conditions apply

Kverneland Smart Search – the intelligent spare parts search tool helping users quickly identify and order the correct components across Kverneland machines. Efficient identification and ordering of Kverneland Genuine spare parts thanks to innovative image recognition technology Smart Search - saving time and reducing errors in the ordering process. With the new Smart Search feature, Kverneland enhances the digital experience for dealers, service technicians, and end-customers looking for Genuine spare parts. Integrated into the existing Online Parts Catalogue and Customer Platform MyKverneland, Smart Search provides intelligent suggestions. Using the latest image recognition technology, Smart Search enables fast and accurate identification of required spare parts, minimising downtime and optimising operations. Quick spare parts ordering by photo The search for the right spare part can often be time-consuming and complicated. Smart Search significantly simplifies this process: users simply take a photo of the defective or worn spare part and upload it via the application. Based on image analysis, the system identifies the relevant spare part and guides the user directly to the ordering option. Maximum efficiency for agricultural operations Smart Search helps to reduce downtime to a minimum. Especially at harvest time, when every minute counts, this solution offers farmers and contractors a significant advantage. “Our dealers and customers need fast, reliable answers when ordering spare parts. Smart Search makes this possible, even if the exact part number isn’t known” says Madiha Bisch, Director Commercial Strategy and Sales Operations, After-Sales. “It’s about making machine maintenance more efficient and intuitive.” Compatibility and ease of use Smart Search is available via both mobile devices and desktop applications and requires no special software installation. This means that farmers can access the application flexibly from anywhere - whether directly in the field or in the workshop. With this digital innovation, Kverneland is once again underlining its commitment to actively driving technological progress in agriculture and supporting farmers with innovative digital solutions. More information about Smart Search: Kverneland Smart Search

New innovations on the Kverneland Field Sprayer range for sustainable agriculture By reason of the increasingly strict environmental regulations and the growing demand for sustainable agricultural solutions, Kverneland introduces three innovative technologies on its field sprayer range: a Closed Transfer System (CTS), iXflow-Pulse (Pulse Width Modulation) and the advanced DAT Ecopatch patch spraying system. These innovations set a new standard in precision spraying, providing increased safety and environmental protection. The chemical inductors of the Kverneland sprayer range are adapted to integrate CTS equipment directly at the filling station. CTS allows plant protection products to be transferred from the container to the sprayer tank in a completely closed system. This eliminates almost all user exposure and prevents environmental emissions during filling. Key benefits of the Kverneland Closed Transfer System include: no direct contact with plant protection products, significant reduction of point source contamination into air, soil or surface water by limiting the risk of product leakage during filling operation. The Kverneland iXflow-Pulse (PWM system) takes care of stable spraying pressure over a wide speed range during variation in application rate. It ensures consistent droplet size andKverneland Group Ireland, Hebron Industrial Estate, Kilkenny, Ireland coverage, regardless of speed and field conditions. With iXflow-Pulse with iXcurve there is a different output from the inner to the outer boom side, dependent on the boom speed, resulting in an equal application rate in every boom segment. iXflow-Pulse with iXcurve – equal application rate in every boom segment The DAT Ecopatch, all-in-one AI-vision system identifies weed patches and sprays Green- on-Brown and Green-on-Green in real time, at the push of a button, and is fully integrated on the Kverneland sprayers. The DAT Ecopatch system recognises and categorises weeds in fields with wheat, cereals and oil seed rape. When weeds are recognised by the camera, a signal is sent to the Kverneland field sprayer and the appropriate nozzles are activated. This results in optimisation of plant protection with minimal product usage. With the Closed Transfer System (CTS), iXflow-Pulse and DAT Ecopatch system, Kverneland proves that innovative technology and sustainability go hand in hand. These solutions support farmers in meeting strict regulations, increasing operational efficiency and contributing to a future-oriented agriculture.

Kverneland has introduced the new Saterra drill – a cultivator-mounted seed drill that’s all about practicality, efficiency, and delivering a reliable finish in one pass. Farmers across Ireland know the pressure that comes with tight weather windows, and the Saterra is built to take that pressure off. Replacing the well-known DA and s-drill models, the Saterra marks a new generation in Kverneland’s mounted seeding technology. It’s already generating plenty of interest thanks to its straightforward design, excellent build quality, and smart features that help get the job done without unnecessary fuss. Flexible, Practical Design Available in 3m and 4m working widths, the Saterra combines seedbed preparation, consolidation, and precise seed placement into a single pass – saving time, diesel, and labour. And with the ability to mount on existing Kverneland power harrows or other soil preparation tools, it’s a versatile machine that won’t need you to overhaul your whole setup. At the heart of the drill are Kverneland’s trusted CX-II coulters. These are well-proven on Irish ground, delivering consistent seed depth and good soil penetration, even in tougher conditions. For farmers working with lighter soils, the Saterra can also be specced with CX-II coulters without the press wheels, which helps keep weight down while still ensuring a clean job. One standout feature is the ability to adjust row spacing to suit different cropping systems. Whether you’re working with 12.5cm or 25cm row widths, the Saterra’s flexible coulter brackets make it simple to change. Easy Filling, Simple Operation Hopper sizes are available in 750 or 1,000 litres, and they’re easy to fill whether using a loader, big bags, or auger. The cover keeps dust and moisture out, and a mechanical metering system allows for a wide range of seed types and rates – from 2kg/ha right up to 380kg/ha. Another handy touch is that you can lift the coulter bar without removing the seeder, which is useful if you want to run the power harrow on its own in certain areas like headlands. There’s also a range of add-ons available like following harrows and pre-emergence markers, so you can tailor the machine to how you work. While the DA and s-drill have served farmers well since the early 1980s, the Saterra takes that proven reliability and wraps it up in a more modern, user-friendly package. It’s ideal for medium to large farms looking for a cost-effective mounted drill that’s quick to set up, easy to maintain, and tough enough for Irish ground. See It For Yourself If you’re heading to the National Ploughing Championships this year, make sure to stop by the Kverneland stand and see the Saterra in person – it’ll be its first Irish show appearance since launching. The Kverneland team will be there to talk you through it and answer any questions. For more information in the meantime, click here for more info on the Saterra  or speak to your local Kverneland dealer . You can also contact Kverneland directly: Leonard Hovenden: Product Manager Arable & Cropcare – +353 87 147 5137  Allan Hetherington: Area North – +44 7826 544 630  Greg Tennyson: Area South - +353 87 700 9689

The ‘perfect balance of innovation and ergonomics,’ the critically acclaimed McCormick Clever Cab was launched today (Thursday, July 17, 2025) at Gurteen Agricultural College in Ballingarry, North Tipperary.  McCormick’s new office in first class Designed primarily with the operator in mind, the Clever Cab offers superior comfort with its semi-active suspension system and air-conditioned driver’s seat. Its intuitive controls and the DSM Plus display provide a user-friendly experience. McCormick’s digital solutions allow your tractor fleet and farm operations to be managed remotely, improving performance while increasing efficiency, safety and productivity.    Available in the X7 model, and providing 8cm of additional headroom above industry standards, the Clever Cab’s  groundbreaking four-post configuration enhances all-round visibility while maintaining full compliance with ROPS (Roll-Over Protective Structures) and, optionally, FOPS (Falling Object Protective Structures) standards.  Speaking at the launch, Kevin Phelan , General Manager, Argo Tractors Ireland said: “In recent decades, the tractor cabin has experienced a significant evolution, having transitioned from a structure which primarily protects drivers from the weather to a fully functional and more highly customised operator environment. And through the design and roll-out of the Clever Cab , Argo Tractors  has delivered a facility which provides a more comfortable space for today’s tractor operator.”  Kevin continued: “The modern tractor cabin is, effectively, the operator’s work station. It’s where many of our customers spend their entire working day for weeks and indeed months at a time. The climate-controlled Clever Cab  sits on top of power units that are engineered for the most demanding of on-farm and transport tasks, which is why comfort and functionality are equally significant in McCormick’s latest design innovation.”  With cabin glass supplied by Saint-Gobain, the Clever Cab’s  innovative spirit extends beyond physical comfort: it’s also a hub of digital efficiency. Its standard 12” DSM Plus (Data Screen Manager Plus) touchscreen monitor, paired with a second 12” digital dashboard with encoder control, offers a seamless user interface. This duo integrates McCormick’s full suite of management software for in-field operations and remote diagnostics. The roof includes a transparent hatch to monitor high front-loader movements without straining, while the rear window opens up to 75°, which provides greater visibility of towed implements. A high-efficiency carbon filter system ensures operator safety against solid, liquid, or gaseous contaminants, which has earned the McCormick Clever Cab a  Class 2 filtration rating. The McCormick Clever Cab’s  four-speaker Alpine audio system, which is also compatible with Apple Car Play and Android Auto, completes the picture. Valerio Morra, President of Argo Tractors , said the McCormick Clever Cab  incorporates “the best features of comfort and practicality, due to passionately crafted details and decades of manufacturing experience, guaranteeing excellent performance”. For more on the Clever Cab, visit www.mccormick.it/clever-cab/

Irish hedgerows and verges demand serious kit. Whether you're a local authority, contractor, or farmer, you need a hedgecutter that’s reliable, easy to use, and tough enough to handle heavy growth season after season. That’s why so many in Ireland choose McConnel Power Arms. With over 80 years of expertise and models proven in Irish conditions, McConnel’s range offers options for everyone – from farm use to full-time contract work – all backed by the Kverneland Group Ireland dealer network. The McConnel Power Arm Range McConnel offers one of the most comprehensive hedgecutter ranges on the market, with arm reaches from 5 m (16 ft 5 in) to over 9 m (31 ft 2 in) and power requirements from 55 hp to 85 hp. Whether you’re cutting in tight lanes, maintaining embankments, or clearing long runs of dense hedgerow, there’s a Power Arm to suit. 55-Series  – Compact and versatile, ideal for farmers, councils and lighter work. 67-Series  – Mid-range machines for general contracting, with options up to 23 ft reach. 72- and 77-Series  – Professional-grade with high-hour spec and options for VFR and telescopic arms. 82- and 85-Series  – Heavy-duty Power Arms for demanding contractors needing maximum reach and strength. Each series includes a variety of arm geometries and control options so you can match your machine to your workload. Built for Irish Conditions McConnel’s Power Arms aren’t just designed for neat hedges – they’re engineered for Ireland’s tough, stony, often overgrown boundaries. Robust build with Strenx high-strength steel on top-end models. Cast-iron pumps and motors for durability. Quick-change blades for less downtime. Parallel arm geometry for simple, precise verge work. They’re designed for ease of operation and maintenance – with excellent access, clever storage options, and neat, balanced folding for transport. Advanced Floatation and Control Systems Operator comfort and finish quality matter. That’s why McConnel offers industry-leading floatation systems like Lift Float, Advanced Float, and the award-winning EDS (Easy Drive System). These systems reduce scalping and operator fatigue, automatically adapting to ground contours even at higher working speeds – up to 18 km/h with EDS. For professional contractors, these systems deliver faster work rates and cleaner results on even the most challenging ground. Dealer Support Across Ireland McConnel Power Arms are sold and supported exclusively in Ireland through the Kverneland Group Ireland dealer network. Expert advice on choosing the right model Genuine parts and service nationwide Back-up you can rely on When you buy from your local McConnel dealer, you’re investing in long-term support from people who understand Irish conditions. Special Finance Offer – For a Limited Time To make upgrading easier, McConnel Ireland is offering: 1 + 4 Annuals at 2% on 100% of the VAT inclusive selling price Available only  through official Kverneland Group Ireland dealers in the Republic of Ireland Offer valid until 15th August 2025 It’s the perfect time to secure the right machine for your farm or contracting business. Talk to Your Local Dealer Ready to learn more about the McConnel Power Arm range or get a quote on this finance offer? Find your local McConnel dealer here and talk to the team today - https://www.mcconnel.ie/dealer-locator/

Inform Nutrition’s KERVA is an innovative cost-effective alkaline grain treatment system for storing and preserving home-grown grain, either at harvest or dormant grain post-harvest. Adding KERVA to a grain treatment system nutritionally enhances the grain for feeding to ruminant animals and reduces your input costs by increasing the amount of protein typically by 4 units. The high associated costs involved in maintaining stable rumen health in beef and dairy herds whilst they are consuming large amounts of rapidly fermentable grain starch is a huge problem for farmers, particularly in high performance indoor systems. The high pH level associated with KERVA grain allows for the inclusion of higher levels of cereals in the diet. With improved feed and fibre digestion this results in an increase in animal productivity and performance. KERVA provides a buffer which allows the rumen to combat excess acidity from rapidly fermentable starches and sugars in the diet which has been proven to result in better finishing performance and milk production and reduces digestive upsets and lameness. Due to this alkaline pH, grain can be safely fed at much higher levels than conventionally treated grain and dietary fibre constraints can therefore be reduced. KERVA has been formulated with the following key benefits: Preserving grain & reducing storage losses due to moulds and heating issues Proving a nutritionally enhanced concentrate that is safer to feed Reduced ration costs Improved animal health & wellbeing KERVA treated grain is the most cost-effective solution for feeding your winter milk stock and finishing beef diets this winter. Click here to find out more KERVA for Grain Enhanced Feed | Inform Nutrition

Precision tine harrow for mechanical weed control The new TINECARE V 12050 MASTER from Pöttinger is a perfectly balanced precision tine harrow for row-independent crop care. It is designed to control weeds and promote crop plant growth. The TINECARE V 12050 MASTER is suitable for weeding every type of standard arable crop, regardless of whether it has been planted following primary or minimum tillage. Even in well-developed stands, this machine delivers outstanding results.  Its strong frame ensures optimum weight distribution over the full working width to deliver the best working results right up to the outermost tine. The folding tine harrow is equipped with a unique compression spring system and large jockey wheels. Thanks to the long travel path of the springs, the tines adapt perfectly to uneven ground contours.  Giving the crop a decisive head start The TINECARE covers the weeds with soil or deposits them on the surface, where they reliably dry out. Processing as early as possible gives the crop the necessary growth advantage over weeds in the competition for light, water and nutrients. With its working width of 12 m, the new Pöttinger tine harrow delivers an impressive output. It is highly cost-effective and ideal for high-yield, modern arable farming.  For easy transport and space-saving storage, the frame can be folded into 5 sections, resulting in a transport width of just 2.95 metres. With its 6-gang configuration and a large inter-gang spacing of 360 mm, the TINECARE provides plenty of clearance for large volumes of organic matter. If required, the tines can be cleared of matter by simply retracting them. As a result, the Pöttinger TINECARE V 12050 MASTER precision tine harrow is suitable for processing mulch-drilled crops. Full flexibility and low maintenance The tines are indirectly sprung and mounted on wide bearings. This ensures constant tine pressure on uneven ground as well as straight line tracking, which is the key to success in full-surface weed control. The tine pressure can be infinitely adjusted hydraulically between 500 g and 6,000 g at any time without leaving the cab. The tine angle and underframe clearance can also be adapted to match the conditions in each field. The effect of the tines can be set to gentle or aggressive, depending on the stage of development of the plants and the soil conditions. The basic version of the TINECARE V 12050 MASTER has 400 tines. If required, six additional tines can be fitted to ensure a smooth overlap between passes. These are necessary, for example, if the machine is used without GNSS guidance. The tine tips have an extra-long wear length of 125 mm. DURASTAR PLUS carbide tines with a much longer service life are available as an option.  The large tyres feature a grooved tread as standard, and tyres with lugs are available as an option. Steerable jockey wheels at the back of the frame increase ground tracking accuracy in the direction of travel and further contribute to the smooth operation of the machine as a result. For increased versatility, including in row crops, the position of all the jockey wheels can be conveniently adjusted to match all standard planting configurations.  The machine can also be equipped with a track harrow. This prevents uprooted weeds from being pressed into the soil again by the rear jockey wheels.  The TINECARE V 12050 MASTER from Pöttinger delivers a consistently high level of excellent working results right up to the outermost tine for successful crop care in both organic and conventional arable farming. The new Pöttinger precision tine harrow is available from September 2025.

Following the successful launch of the all-electric Škoda Elroq, Škoda Ireland is advancing its electrification strategy with the introduction of the new Enyaq – the larger sibling to the recently launched Elroq. The refreshed Škoda Enyaq and Škoda Enyaq Coupé are further enhanced with the brand’s striking new Modern Solid design language. Updates include an extended driving range, improved aerodynamics, greater use of sustainable materials, and an expanded list of standard equipment. Enhanced digital capabilities and the latest in driver assistance technologies also feature prominently. The new Enyaq family offers two battery sizes and three powertrain options. Customers can choose from the rear-wheel drive Enyaq 60 with 430 kilometres of driving range, or the Enyaq 85 with an extended range of up to 575 kilometres. The Enyaq 85x features all-wheel drive with dual motors  for added traction in all conditions. A key innovation is the introduction of bidirectional charging, enabling Enyaq models to act as supplementary energy storage units for homes. Due to strong demand across continental Europe and the UK, Enyaq availability was limited in Ireland throughout 2024. However, Škoda Ireland is pleased to confirm significantly improved supply for the remainder of 2025. John Donegan, Brand Director of Škoda Ireland, commented: "The new Enyaq facelift is now available to test drive at Škoda showrooms nationwide. We’re excited to offer an even more attractive entry price point with the Enyaq 60, from only €43,060. Starting from €45,250, the Enyaq 85 is expected to be our best-seller due to its impressive range. We’re also looking forward to the arrival of a new high-performance  Enyaq RS later this year. Until then, customers can choose the dynamic new Sportline variants, with the Enyaq 85 Sportline starting at €52,750, and the  Enyaq 85x Sportline all-wheel-drive version available for an additional €1,500. We currently have excellent Enyaq availability, and to celebrate the launch, 0% hire purchase finance is available for a limited time." The new Enyaq 85 offers significantly improved charging performance, reaching from 10% to 80% battery capacity in just 28 minutes with DC charging at up to 175kW. New features include Remote Park Assist and enhanced functionality through the MyŠkoda app, which now fully integrates "PowerPass" charge card services and billing. The New Škoda Enyaq and Enyaq Coupé - World Premiere Across the range, standard features include heated leather front seats, a heated steering wheel, KESSY Advanced with Open-On-Approach and Walk-Away Locking, 3-zone Climatronic air conditioning, Side Assist, Predictive Adaptive Cruise Control (pACC), and Traffic Jam Assist. Customers can also choose between two luxurious  leather/combination leather Interior Design Selections: Suite Cognac or Suite Black. For drivers who like to stand out, Sportline models feature Matrix LED headlights, 20-inch alloy wheels, and distinctive Sportline design elements in the interior and exterior. Both the Škoda Enyaq and Škoda Elroq are now available to test drive at Škoda dealers. Prices provided include VRT rebate, SEAI grant and estimated dealer delivery. Data figures are based on WLTP values. To request a quote, simply click the button below:

When considering a new vehicle, running costs are a key factor for Irish drivers searching on DoneDeal. To provide a comprehensive perspective, we’re comparing five different vehicle types to include a diesel SUV, a petrol hatchback, a mild hybrid, a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle, and a fully electric vehicle. We’ll look at costs for driving 1,000 km based on fuel consumption, annual motor tax, and main dealer servicing costs to give you a better understanding of the figures. Remember our figures are calculated at the time of writing and may vary slightly. 1. Diesel SUV (Hyundai Tucson) The Hyundai Tucson Diesel is a popular choice here in Ireland for those seeking a versatile family SUV with decent space. Fuel Consumption:  5.5L/100km. At an average diesel price of €1.70 per litre, driving 1,000 km would cost approximately €93.50. Annual Motor Tax:  €280, based on CO2 emissions. Servicing Costs:  Annual servicing at a main dealer typically costs around €300 for a diesel engine. Total Running Cost per 1,000 km:  €93.50 in fuel + €23.33 (monthly motor tax) + €25 (monthly servicing) = €141.83. 2. Petrol Hatchback – Ford Focus 1.0 EcoBoost The Ford Focus 1.0 EcoBoost is a compact hatchback known for its nimble handling and efficient engine. Fuel Consumption:  6.0L/100km. With petrol priced at €1.65 per litre, 1,000 km costs €99. Annual Motor Tax:  €190, given its lower emissions. Servicing Costs:  Approximately €250 annually for a petrol model. Total Running Cost per 1,000 km:  €99 in fuel + €15.83 (monthly motor tax) + €20.83 (monthly servicing) = €135.66. 3. Mild Hybrid – Toyota Corolla Hybrid A mild hybrid offers a balance between petrol efficiency and electric assistance, as seen in the extremely popular Toyota Corolla Hybrid. Fuel Consumption:  4.5L/100km. With petrol at €1.65 per litre, driving 1,000 km costs €74.25. Annual Motor Tax:  €180, due to reduced CO2 emissions. Servicing Costs:  Hybrid systems require slightly higher maintenance, averaging €300 per year. Total Running Cost per 1,000 km:  €74.25 in fuel + €15 (monthly motor tax) + €25 (monthly servicing) = €114.25. 4. PHEV – Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV Plug-in hybrids like the Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV offer electric driving for short trips and petrol for longer journeys. Fuel Consumption:  2.0L/100km for electric driving; 7.5L/100km on petrol. Assuming a 50/50 electric-petrol split, 1,000 km costs €50 for electricity and €61.88 for petrol, totalling €111.88. Annual Motor Tax:  €140, based on emissions. Servicing Costs:  PHEV servicing averages €350 annually. Total Running Cost per 1,000 km:  €111.88 in fuel/electricity + €11.67 (monthly motor tax) + €29.17 (monthly servicing) = €152.72. 5. Electric – Hyundai Kona Electric The award winning Hyundai Kona Electric is a compact SUV offering low running costs and zero tailpipe emissions. It’s very popular with Irish drivers including Taxi usage. Electricity Consumption:  15 kWh/100 km. At an average rate of €0.25 per kWh, 1,000 km costs €37.50. Annual Motor Tax:  €120, as an EV. Servicing Costs:  EVs typically have fewer components requiring maintenance, averaging €150 annually. Total Running Cost per 1,000 km:  €37.50 in electricity + €10 (monthly motor tax) + €12.50 (monthly servicing) = €60. DoneDeal Thoughts When it comes to running costs, electric vehicles clearly lead the pack with significantly lower fuel and maintenance expenses. However, PHEVs offer a compelling middle ground for those who aren’t ready to go fully electric, while mild hybrids provide a fuel-efficient option with lower servicing costs. Diesel and petrol vehicles still have their advantages, particularly for long-distance driving and towing, but the cost gap is closing rapidly as electricity rates remain lower than fuel prices here in Ireland. It’s all about what best suits your needs! We wish you happy hunting on www.donedeal.ie

Written by Justin Delaney, an Independent Reviewer, Journalist ,  and Motor expert. What You Need to Know When Trading Your Car So you are considering trading in your current car for a new one? This can be an exciting step but if you’ve ever felt confused by dealership jargon, you’re not alone. Terms like trade price , straight sale , cost to change , and realistic value  can be a little overwhelming if you’re not used to the process. Here’s is the simple DoneDeal guide to understanding the key phrases so you can walk into your next dealership with confidence. Trade Price / Trade-In Value This is the amount the dealer offers for your current vehicle when you’re buying another one from them. It’s usually lower than what you might get from a private sale, but trading in is far more convenient and less time-consuming. The trade price takes into account: Your car’s age, mileage, condition, and service history Market demand for the make and model Upcoming costs for the dealer to prepare it for resale (valeting, minor repairs, warranty, etc.) DoneDeal   Tip:  A full service history, two keys, valid NCT, and good presentation can help maximise your trade-in value. Straight Sale A straight sale  is when a dealership buys your car from you without you purchasing another car in return. This is less common, but some dealers do offer this service, especially for popular, clean, or nearly-new vehicles. You’ll likely be offered a little less than the trade-in value because there's no other deal being made but it can still be a useful and fast option. DoneDeal Tip:  If you're selling your car outright, get multiple offers to ensure you're getting a fair price. Value vs Price It’s easy to confuse the value  of your current car with the price  of the car you want to buy, but these are separate numbers in a trade-in discussion. A dealer might offer a great price on the new car but less for your trade-in or vice versa. That’s why the most important figure is usually how much it cost to change. This is the figure that really matters. Cost to change  is the difference between the price of the new car and the value of your trade-in. For example: New car price: €35,000 Trade-in offer for your car: €15,000 Cost to change = €20,000 No matter how the numbers are dressed up, this is the final amount you’ll be paying (either as a lump sum, financed, or through another method like PCP). Always ask for this number when comparing deals as it helps cuts through the noise. DoneDeal Tip:  Don’t be swayed by a “high” trade-in price if the new car is also priced high. Focus on the cost to change. Realistic Expectations It’s perfectly natural to hope for the best price when trading in, but it’s equally important to be realistic. Remember, dealerships need to factor in reconditioning, a margin for resale, warranty obligations, and admin costs. What you see online as a “retail price” is rarely what a car is worth in a trade-in context. Additionally, websites showing private sale values might not reflect what a dealer can reasonably offer. If your car has high mileage, cosmetic issues, or missing service history, be prepared for that to be reflected in the trade-in offer. DoneDeal Tip:  Consider getting a professional appraisal, or use the valuation tool powered by Allianz on DoneDeal.ie  for a ballpark figure. Final Thoughts Understanding the key terms in the trade-in process can help you make smarter choices and avoid confusion. Always compare the cost to change, not just the trade-in figure or new car price. Come to the dealership with service history, your NCT cert, and your best negotiation hat on but also an open mind about what’s realistic. With the right knowledge and a practical approach, trading in your car can be smooth, fair, and even enjoyable!