Nevo Research show EVs now cheaper, SIMI April 2026 Numbers, Hyundai IONIQ 3 Launch, VW ID.Polo Launch, Merc CLA Irish Launch, New e408 Driven and Nevo Driving Experience Waterford May 24th 2026

SIMI is the Society of the Irish Motor Industry, which publishes industry statistics such as vehicle sales and registrations. In this episode, the hosts reference SIMI’s April 2026 numbers to discuss how EVs are tracking in Ireland.

This refers to a cost comparison showing that, on average, electric vehicles (EVs) can be cheaper to run than petrol or diesel cars. The “top 10 versus top 10” framing suggests they’re comparing the best-value EVs against the best-value internal-combustion options.

The Volkswagen ID. Buzz is an electric version of the classic Buzz/Bus concept, built as a people-moving van-style vehicle. It’s discussed in EV news because it brings a familiar, practical layout into the electric-car category. In your excerpt, it’s mentioned in the same breath as other EV-related items, suggesting it’s part of the broader lineup being covered.

The Peugeot E408 is Peugeot’s electric fastback model, and the hosts say they were driving an “updated” version in the South of France. That implies changes such as revised specs, software, or efficiency improvements that matter to EV buyers.

Registration numbers refer to how many vehicles were newly registered in a given period. In EV reporting, these are commonly used as a proxy for market demand and consumer uptake.

PHEV stands for plug-in hybrid electric vehicle. It uses both an electric motor and a gasoline engine, and it can be charged from a plug like a battery-electric car.

A plug socket indicates the car is designed to be charged externally. In registration data, this helps distinguish cars that can be plugged in (like BEVs and PHEVs) from hybrids that can’t be charged from the grid.

The Volkswagen ID4 is a battery-electric SUV in the ID family. It’s listed here as the second-best-selling model by registrations for April 2026.

The Toyota C-HR is a compact crossover SUV known for its practical size and mainstream appeal. In your excerpt, it’s referenced as a ranked entry, which suggests the discussion is about which models performed best in a particular comparison. That’s why it’s being mentioned alongside other popular vehicles.

Leasing contract hire is a type of vehicle acquisition where a customer pays to use a car for a set term, rather than buying it outright. In registration breakdowns, it helps separate private purchases from business/contract arrangements.

“Private customer” refers to registrations made by individual consumers rather than companies or fleet operators. This matters because EV adoption can look different when you separate retail buyers from business purchases.

SUV stands for “sport utility vehicle,” a body style known for higher ride height and a more upright seating position. The segment notes SUV as the most popular “form factor” in the registrations.

The “fuel crisis” refers to a period when fuel prices (especially gasoline and diesel) rise sharply or become volatile. That kind of shock can change consumer behavior and push more people toward EVs because electricity may feel cheaper or more predictable than fuel.

The “green premium” is the extra amount buyers typically pay for an environmentally friendly option (like an EV) compared with a similar petrol/diesel car. The speaker claims that premium is no longer present, meaning EVs are cheaper to buy on average.

Total cost of ownership (TCO) is the overall cost to run and maintain a vehicle over time, not just the purchase price. Here, the hosts argue EVs are cheaper in TCO because electricity, servicing, and related costs are lower than for petrol/diesel cars.

In EV talk, “range” is how far the car can drive on a full charge (or how much distance you can expect before needing to recharge). The speaker says the main hesitation is based on what people *think* they need versus what they actually drive daily.

SAE AI is referenced as the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland, which publishes energy and fuel-related data. In this segment, they’re using SAE AI’s fuel price information to estimate the cost of driving 100 km for different powertrains.

The hosts use “100 kilometers” as a standardized distance to compare driving costs across EVs, petrol, and diesel. This is a common way to make cost-per-distance comparisons easier and more apples-to-apples.

The Hyundai IONIQ 3 is an upcoming EV launch discussed in this segment, including its design preview and first global reveal of the non-inline version. The hosts also cover key specs like battery sizes, WLTP range, charging speed, and interior tech.

The Kia EV2 is referenced as a comparison point for the IONIQ 3’s platform dimensions, specifically sharing the same wheelbase. Wheelbase affects interior space and ride/handling balance, so it’s a meaningful spec when comparing EVs.

The Hyundai IONIQ 5 is mentioned as part of the comparison set for Hyundai’s EV lineup. It’s used to frame how the IONIQ 3 fits alongside other Hyundai EVs in terms of strategy and product relationships.

The Hyundai Ioniq 9 is referenced in your excerpt as part of an EV comparison set that includes models like the EV9, Ioniq 5, and Kia EV6. That context suggests it’s being discussed as a larger or more feature-complete Ioniq option relative to other Hyundai EVs. It’s brought up because listeners are comparing what each vehicle offers in the same general EV “shopping list.”

The IAA show refers to the Internationale Automobil-Ausstellung, a major international auto show in Germany where new concepts and vehicles are often unveiled. Here, it’s used to say the IONIQ 3 concept was previously shown publicly at that event.

A 400-volt architecture describes the EV’s electrical system voltage level used for power electronics and charging. Voltage affects how efficiently the car can handle high-power charging and how the battery and inverter are designed.

Vehicle to load (V2L) is a feature that lets an EV supply power from its battery to external devices, like appliances or tools, through an outlet. It’s essentially the car acting like a portable power source.

A torsion beam rear suspension is a simpler, lower-cost suspension design commonly used on many mainstream cars. The hosts connect it to packaging benefits—here, they say it helps create a larger boot space.

The “play-offs connect system” appears to refer to a connected-infotainment or phone-integration system shown in the IONIQ 3 interior. The hosts emphasize it as the first time viewers got a proper look at it beyond a static studio display.

This describes a multifunction interior storage feature—specifically a cup holder that can be repurposed to hold other items. It’s a design detail that affects daily usability and how flexible the cabin storage is.

Over-the-air (OTA) updates let the car receive software updates wirelessly, without visiting a service center. This can add features, improve performance, or fix bugs after you’ve bought the vehicle.

The Renault 5 is referenced as an example of a vehicle with a similar multifunction storage idea (like a cup-holder/holder concept). It’s a nod to the car’s “retro” design language and practical interior touches.

A 14.6-inch touchscreen is a key user interface element in modern EVs, typically used for navigation, media, climate controls, and vehicle settings. Screen size can affect usability and how much is controlled digitally.

The Volkswagen ID Polo is discussed as an upcoming entry electric vehicle for Ireland. The hosts cover pricing expectations, grants/VRT relief impact, and key specs like battery options and range.

Front-wheel drive (FWD) means the power is sent to the front wheels. In EVs, this often simplifies packaging and can help keep costs down compared with all-wheel-drive layouts.

VRT relief refers to a reduction/waiver of Ireland’s Vehicle Registration Tax for qualifying vehicles. It can significantly lower the purchase price for eligible EVs.

The ID Polo is said to come with two battery options, which typically changes range and sometimes performance. Bigger batteries usually provide more driving distance but can cost more.

“Power outputs” refers to how much electrical power the EV’s motor(s) can deliver, which directly affects acceleration feel and overall performance. EVs are often offered in multiple power levels so buyers can choose between efficiency and stronger drive.

A kilowatt-hour (kWh) is a unit of energy used to describe EV battery capacity. More kWh generally means the battery can store more energy, which often translates to longer driving range (though real range also depends on efficiency and driving conditions).

“Pure positive design language” is Volkswagen’s branding term for a consistent design direction across its newer electric vehicles. It’s essentially a design philosophy—how the shapes, surfaces, and visual cues are meant to look and feel as part of the ID family.

A “refresh update” is a mid-cycle update to an existing model, typically involving styling tweaks, software/infotainment changes, and sometimes efficiency improvements. It’s usually less drastic than a full redesign or new generation.

Right-hand drive (RHD) means the steering wheel is on the right side of the car, which is required in countries that drive on the left. The segment notes they only got RHD “last year,” implying the update is arriving quickly after the market-specific rollout.

In EV context, “efficiency” refers to how effectively the vehicle converts stored electrical energy into motion. Higher efficiency generally helps extend real-world range and reduces energy consumption per mile/km.

A plug-in hybrid is a hybrid car that can run on an electric motor using a battery that you charge from an external power source. It also has an internal-combustion engine for longer trips or when the battery is depleted.

Peugeot Ireland refers to the local Peugeot distributor/brand organization responsible for how Peugeot models are offered and marketed in Ireland. In this segment, they’re quoted about choosing which powertrains to bring to the Irish market.

A mild hybrid uses a small electric motor and battery to assist the engine, but it typically can’t drive the car purely on electricity for long distances. The system mainly helps with acceleration and reduces fuel use during stop-and-go driving.

“Real world” range is an estimate of how far an EV typically goes in everyday driving conditions, which can differ from official test-cycle ratings. Factors like speed, temperature, terrain, and driving style can reduce or increase the actual distance.

“Boot” is the trunk space measurement, and “536” likely refers to volume (commonly in liters) for cargo capacity. It matters because it indicates how much luggage or gear you can carry compared with other cars.

A “crossover fastback” describes a vehicle style that blends SUV-like proportions (higher seating position, practical packaging) with a fastback roofline (a sloping rear). This affects both appearance and how the car’s shape packages space and aerodynamics.

The Peugeot 408 is a Peugeot model being discussed in this segment, specifically in the context of an interview about the E408. The hosts are focusing on how Peugeot is positioning it for Ireland with an all-electric option rather than a plug-in hybrid.

STLA Medium is a newer Stellantis vehicle architecture intended to standardize how cars are engineered, especially for electrified powertrains. The speaker contrasts it with EMP2, saying STLA Medium wasn’t available when the E408 was designed.

EMP2 is a modular vehicle platform used by Stellantis (Peugeot/Citroën/DS) that supports different powertrains and body styles. In this segment, the hosts use it to explain why the E408 can be engineered for electrification without switching to a newer architecture.

A fastback silhouette is a body shape where the roof slopes smoothly down toward the rear, reducing aerodynamic drag. The speaker ties this shape directly to improved efficiency for the E408.

A wheelbase is the distance between the front and rear axles, and changing it affects interior space, ride tuning, and packaging for components like batteries. The speaker says they used a longer wheelbase module to optimize the E408.

Ground clearance is the height between the road and the lowest part of the car. The speaker notes the E408’s ground clearance is higher than the 308, which can help with rough roads while still targeting efficiency.

“Power chain” here means the full set of components that convert stored electrical energy into motion—battery, power electronics, motor, and drivetrain. The speaker includes it as one of the contributors to overall efficiency.

“A plus tires” refers to tire rolling-resistance ratings, where higher efficiency tires require less energy to roll. The speaker links these tires to the E408’s low energy consumption.

SCx and CX are aerodynamic coefficients used to quantify drag from the vehicle’s shape. The speaker is claiming very low aerodynamic resistance values (O66/SCX and O28/CX) that help the E408 achieve benchmark efficiency.

“Cat ears” refers to small aerodynamic fins/air inlets mounted on the rear of a vehicle (here, on top of the tailgate). They’re used to manage airflow around the rear to improve aerodynamic efficiency and reduce drag.

This is the battery capacity the car can actually use (usable kWh), and “NMC” is the battery chemistry (Nickel Manganese Cobalt). Usable capacity matters because it directly affects how far the car can go on electricity and how much energy is available for charging and power delivery.

DC fast charging is a method that delivers direct current to the battery at high power, allowing quicker charging than standard AC charging. “120 kW” is the peak charging power the car can accept under ideal conditions, though real-world results depend on battery temperature and state of charge.

Charging curves describe how charging power changes over time during a charging session. EVs often start fast, then taper as the battery approaches higher state-of-charge, so the curve shape can matter more than the single peak number.

Battery preconditioning is a strategy that warms or optimizes the battery before fast charging so it can accept higher power more consistently. It’s often triggered by navigation/route information so the battery is ready when you arrive at the charger.

Battery peak conditioning is a control mode that prepares the battery to achieve higher fast-charging power (“peak”) when you plug in. The transcript distinguishes automatic conditioning (linked to navigation/trip planning) from manual conditioning that the driver can enable.

“Powering external devices” refers to using the vehicle’s electrical system to run or charge outside equipment (often via built-in outlets/inverters). In EVs and PHEVs, this is typically managed through the vehicle’s power electronics and can be useful for camping or emergency power.

E-triplanner is the vehicle’s trip-planning/navigation feature used to coordinate charging and battery management. In this context, it’s tied to automatic battery conditioning so the battery is optimized for the first fast-charging stop.

V2L (Vehicle-to-Load) lets an EV power external devices from its battery through an onboard outlet. Here, it’s described as allowing the driver to connect equipment up to 3.6 kW.

A heat pump is an EV efficiency system that moves heat rather than generating it from scratch, helping the cabin stay warm in cold weather. In this segment, it’s credited with improving winter range by about 15% (roughly 30–40 km) versus an EV without a heat pump.

Regenerative braking is how an EV slows down while turning some of its motion back into electricity to recharge the battery. This segment explains that the e-408 offers three regenerative braking levels and discusses whether it feels like one-pedal driving versus a more traditional “ICE-like” brake feel.

One-pedal driving is a driving style where lifting off the accelerator provides enough deceleration that you can slow down and often stop with minimal brake pedal use. The hosts ask whether the e-408’s regenerative braking is tuned to feel like one-pedal driving, or instead like a more familiar internal-combustion (ICE) braking feel.

“ICE-like feel” refers to tuning the EV’s deceleration and pedal response to resemble how a traditional internal-combustion engine car behaves. In this segment, the calibration is described as more “icy or hybrid-like” to avoid surprising the driver and keep the experience familiar.

i-Cockpit is Peugeot’s branded driver interface concept, typically referring to the layout and design of the digital instrument cluster and controls. In this segment, it’s mentioned as the foundation for newer AI/voice features.

Stellantis is the automaker group behind multiple brands, and the segment says AI features are rolling out across the Stellantis range. This matters because it suggests the e-408’s tech may be part of a broader platform strategy.

“Chat GBT” appears to refer to ChatGPT-style generative AI used for conversational interfaces. The segment suggests this kind of AI integration is being rolled out across the Stellantis lineup, including the e-408.

Voice recognition is the system’s ability to understand spoken commands so the driver can control functions hands-free. Here, it’s discussed as being “fully integrated” into the e-408’s AI-enabled interaction.

Trip planning is the navigation feature that builds a route and can account for factors like distance, stops, and driving conditions. The segment highlights AI integration into the e-408’s trip planning system for more intuitive interaction.

Infotainment is the in-car system that combines entertainment and information functions, like the touchscreen, media playback, and vehicle settings. In EVs, it often also handles charging and navigation-related screens.

Natural language refers to the ability to understand and respond to spoken or typed requests in everyday wording. In cars, it enables voice assistants to interpret intent (like “find charging near me”) rather than requiring rigid commands.

A “GPT feature” indicates the car is using a generative AI model (like OpenAI’s GPT-style technology) to produce responses. Here, it’s described as part of connected services to answer questions about vehicle features, charging, and navigation.

A connected services pack is a bundle of features that rely on an internet connection (often via the car’s modem or a paired phone). These services can include remote functions, live traffic, and AI/voice assistance capabilities.

Horsepower is a measure of engine/motor output power. In EV discussions, it’s used to compare how strongly the motor can accelerate the car.

Torque (measured in Newton-meters) is the twisting force the motor produces. EVs often deliver strong torque from low speeds, which affects how quickly the car feels like it responds.

A panhard rod is a suspension link used to control lateral (side-to-side) axle movement. It’s often used in rear axle setups to keep wheel alignment more consistent under load compared with simpler designs.

A twist beam is a rear suspension design where the beam flexes in a way that can allow some axle movement as the car goes over bumps or turns. It’s common on many mainstream cars, but it can behave differently than multi-link or rod-based setups.

“C segment” is a European vehicle class roughly corresponding to compact cars. “Fastback” describes a body shape with a sloping roof that flows into the rear, often improving aerodynamics and giving a sportier silhouette.

The BMW i4 is referenced as a traditional premium sedan-like EV competitor. It’s used to frame who the Peugeot 408 is trying to attract—buyers considering premium EVs from established brands.

The Polestar 2 is cited as an example of a crossover-like EV alternative. The comparison helps position the Peugeot 408’s target customer—whether it’s more “premium sedan” or more “crossover” in how people shop.

The Škoda Octavia is a mainstream family car that’s often used as a benchmark in Europe. In this segment, it’s mentioned as the competitor in the hybrid category, meaning it’s a key alternative shoppers compare against.

The Kia EV6 is an electric crossover that’s been a major competitor in the EV market. In the segment, it’s mentioned as the earlier benchmark in the “BV” category before being replaced by a newer Kia model.

The Kia EV4 is a compact electric model, and “fastback” describes its sloping roofline shape. The hosts use it as the current EV competitor, emphasizing how Kia’s design and packaging are aimed at similar customer types.

“All-wheel drive” (AWD) means power is sent to more than one axle to improve traction and stability, especially in poor weather. The transcript likely refers to Mercedes-Benz “4MATIC,” which is the brand name for its AWD system.

“17s to 19s” refers to wheel sizes measured in inches (17-inch to 19-inch wheels). Larger wheels can change ride comfort and steering feel, and they also affect tire cost and availability.

Headroom and knee space are interior packaging metrics that describe how much vertical space occupants have and how much room their knees have in the rear seat. The speaker uses them to argue the car feels roomier than before.

“Shark nose” is a styling description for a more aggressive front-end shape, usually paired with aerodynamic intent. In EVs, front-end shaping helps reduce drag to improve efficiency and range.

The segment is describing the new Mercedes-Benz CLA, focusing on its EV-specific design and efficiency. They mention multiple EV versions and highlight features aimed at improving aerodynamics and range.

Frameless doors use glass that seals without a traditional window frame. This is a design choice that can improve the look and slightly reduce airflow disruption around the side glass.

Flush fitting handles sit close to the body instead of sticking out. That reduces aerodynamic drag and can improve efficiency, which matters for EV range.

A “digital exhaust” is an electronic sound system that simulates exhaust noise for EVs. Since EVs don’t have an engine exhaust note, manufacturers use audio to provide feedback and a more familiar driving experience.

Luggage space is the usable storage volume in the car’s trunk area, typically measured in liters. For EVs, packaging efficiency and battery placement strongly influence how much room you get.

“Bonnet” here refers to the front compartment cover on the car, which in EVs often houses a front trunk (frunk). The speaker ties it to the 101-liter storage space.

A frunk is a front trunk storage compartment in many EVs, created because there’s no traditional engine up front. It’s measured in liters and adds practical storage space.

Battery structural protection refers to reinforced body structures and shielding designed to protect the battery pack in impacts. It’s a key part of EV crash safety because the battery is a large, high-energy component.

Airbags are supplemental restraint devices that inflate rapidly in a crash to help reduce injury. The “full suite” wording suggests multiple airbags across the cabin and front/rear seating areas.

WLTP is the standardized testing method used to estimate fuel economy and EV range. It’s intended to be more realistic than older test cycles, but it still can’t perfectly match every real-world situation.

An 800-volt electrical system allows higher-power charging compared with older 400-volt designs. That typically reduces charging time because the car can accept more power from compatible fast chargers.

The Audi S6 is a performance-oriented executive sedan that’s positioned above the standard A6 in the lineup. It’s typically discussed for its stronger power output and sport-tuned driving characteristics. In your excerpt, it’s mentioned alongside the S5 as part of what was available to see or review.

The Audi S5 is a performance-focused version of the A5 line, typically offered as a sportier coupe or sportback-style car. It’s discussed because it blends everyday usability with a more powerful engine tune and a sport-oriented setup. In the context you provided, it’s mentioned alongside other S models as part of what was available to see or review.

Drive modes are selectable settings that change how a vehicle behaves—typically things like throttle response, steering feel, and traction control calibration. On trucks, they’re often tuned for conditions such as normal driving, snow, sand, or off-road use.

The Chevrolet Colorado is a midsize pickup truck mentioned as handling tough terrain thanks to multiple drive modes. In this segment, it’s being marketed as capable off-road/rough-road equipment.

The Chevrolet Silverado HD is the heavy-duty version of the Silverado line, aimed at higher payload and towing demands. In this segment, it’s grouped with the standard Silverado as offering multiple engine options and towing capability.

Towing is pulling another vehicle or trailer behind the truck. It depends on the truck’s drivetrain, cooling capacity, and towing hardware, and it’s a key metric for pickup buyers.

The Chevrolet Silverado EV is the electric version of the Silverado pickup referenced as being easy to “hitch up” and drive. The segment frames it as combining electric capability with practical truck use.