First of all it’s a Golf. Second, it’s an e-Golf. And that’s a good thing. VW have built a main stream car that also happens to be fully electric. So for the most part, it looks like a normal Golf (save for the Astana Alloys, which scream electric car but are like that for aerodynamic reasons). You can also get your hands on the e-Golf executive edition which benefits from premium styling and handsome 17″ Madrid alloys. The e-Golf starts at €35,995 and the Executive Edition comes in at €39,495. Both prices are after the Government grants are applied.
The interior is a standard Golf interior. The options added to this e-Golf include the sumptuous Vienna Leather pack, covering all 4 seats and are supremely comfortable. It also includes the Tech upgrade pack with park distance (no camera) control, light package, folding mirrors and surround lighting. The Metallic paint is also part of the upgraded spec which brings the total to €3,299 of optional extras.
Now to the business of getting the most range from the battery. From what I could tell, full charge gives 277km, the manufacturers guide is 300km. Charging is easy using the two cables provided. Charging at home costs as little as 2 cent per km: Typical overnight electricity rate of 11 cent per kWh. Charging a VW e-Golf therefore costs only 2 cent per km. Based on an average 32 km daily commute, this equates to around 46 cent per day.
There’s a good case made for businesses to run EV’s. With government incentives of over €10,000, 0% Benefit-in-Kind tax, up to €7,000 grant for EV’s used as Taxi’s and further savings for sole traders, companies and farmers strangely enough, under the Accelerated Capital Allowance scheme (ACA).
For the home user you can avail of up to €500 reduced tolls (on selected roads of course), an SEAI grant of €600 towards the installation of a home charging point all on top of the SEAI and VRT rebate of €5k each.
Special mention : The fact that it looks like a main stream hatch is a very good thing. The Golf is one of the most successful hatchbacks out there. It’s a perfect match to put an electric battery/motor into.
Needs work : The manufacturers guide is 300km range, I once saw 277km range but was charging again when it reached 100km left in the ‘tank’. Electric cars are a perfect second addition to a household for frequent, smaller trips. It can do longer distances but it takes planning and waiting at charging stations.
Specs:
| Max Power 136bhp | 100kW Single Speed Auto |
| 0-100 km/h in 9.6s | Road Tax € 120.00 |
| E-Golf price starts at €36,125 (with grants applied) | Boot Space 341 litres / 1,231 litres |