“NFDA is continuing to make progress in Northern Ireland to address some of the key barriers hindering mass EV adoption. Recently, NFDA-NI met with several MPs and Members of the Legislative Assembly (MLA) to try to address the dire state of the electric vehicle charging infrastructure. The impact of which is diminishing consumer confidence in EVs and damaging Northern Ireland’s ability to reach its climate commitments. Regular dealer steering groups is part of our long-term strategy to unite the industry and overcome said challenges,” said Sue Robinson, Chief Executive of the National Franchised Dealer Association (NFDA) which represents car and commercial retailers across the UK and Northern Ireland.
On Thursday 29 June 2023, NFDA’s Northern Ireland Division held a meeting in Belfast with its franchised dealer members and other stakeholder groups to discuss the overall market, the pertinent issues affecting the EV charging infrastructure, the ongoing issues with the MOT system, manufacturer dealer relationships and the best course of action to confront these challenges.
William Downey, Auto Trader Account Director, attended the meeting and offered a comprehensive overview of the new and used EV market, consumer confidence, and the wider impact of the economic climate on finance.
A section was also dedicated to an update on the ongoing MOT crisis in NI. Pat Delaney, Driver & Vehicle Agency (DVA) Director of Operations, attended and provided members with an update on DVA’s plans for the future and address capacity issues across its network of test centres.
Sue Robinson continued: “We will build on the momentum that we have managed to generate in Northern Ireland. NFDA-NI has established strong connections with relevant Parliamentarians and MLAs. Going forward we will continue to liaise with these individuals so that we can determine the best possible outcome for our retailer members and ensure their voice is heard.”
ENDS -
NOTES TO EDITORS -
Adam Weeks, NFDA Communications Officer
Direct: 020 7307 3413
Mobile: 0788 003 9897
Email: adam.weeks@rmif.co.uk
