70% of drivers in the dark about new rule that could mean higher prices for NI car buyers
Over two-thirds of drivers are unaware of a major rule change that could see some popular new cars disappear from dealership forecourts across Northern Ireland. Due to post-Brexit trading rules, from the start of 2026 all new vehicles sold here need to meet EU approval standards, while those sold in the rest of the UK only require GB type approval. The new regulations are as a result of conditions set out in the Windsor Framework regarding the movement of goods between Great Britain, Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland.
While car manufacturers can choose to apply for both types of approval, allowing them to sell a vehicle in any part of the UK, many companies have opted for only GB certification. As a result, new car buyers here will likely face less choice and higher prices than those in England, Scotland and Wales.
Disabled drivers will also be impacted by the changes, with the Motability Scheme confirming that some of its vehicles may no longer be available to customers in Northern Ireland. However, it said it would still offer a wide range of alternative vehicles.
While sales of new cars are growing in Britain, there has been a marked decline in Northern Ireland sales. One of the starkest examples of this trend is with Vauxhall which saw a 16% rise in retail sales in GB last year – but a 59% drop in Northern Ireland.
Industry bodies have warned that the new car market here could shrink dramatically as a result of the rule change, impacting not only customers but also dealers as they face potential job losses and fears over future long-term viability.
The UK government is aware that some manufacturers are not dual-marking certain GB-only approved vehicles with the EU approval number. This prevents them from being sold in Northern Ireland, and is considering legislation in the absence of voluntary action. Consultation on the matter concluded last week.
Despite the significance of these new regulations and what they mean for the local car industry, research by ‘CompareNI.com’ has highlighted a lack of awareness among consumers.
In a new survey of 700 Northern Ireland drivers, just 30% of respondents said they were aware of the new rules, while a further 79% said they were confused by what the changes mean and how they would impact drivers.
When asked what their biggest concern would be regarding the updated regulations, 64% cited higher vehicle costs or tax increases, while 18% were most worried about having fewer new car options available to buy.
Ian Wilson, car insurance expert and Managing Director at ‘CompareNI.com’ said, “These regulations around new car sales in Northern Ireland represent an unprecedented challenge for the industry here and have the potential to cause serious disruption for both consumers and dealers alike.
“Under these rules, anyone looking to buy a new car in 2026 could face reduced choice, with certain models no longer available, or find themselves paying higher costs compared to buyers across the water.
Worryingly, our research indicates that many drivers here remain uninformed about these changes and how they will affect them, which could lead to confusion and disappointment when shopping for a new car.”