Some drivers are taking drastic measures. Battery cars accounted for one in eight new models last month, compared to one in 10 in April.
The number of electric models purchased last month rose to 15,448, a jump of 20 units from the previous month. It was an increase of 17.7% compared to the same month in 2021.
The rise of electric vehicles is accelerating as carmakers struggle with the shortage of parts supply and rationing, favoring electric cars. Car dealers reported their worst bargain in May in three decades, except in 2020 when showrooms were forced to close.
Total car sales fell 20.6%, or 32,000, in May to 124,000 from the same month last year, according to the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Dealers (SMMT).
Williams said he expected fuel prices to get worse, with the average liter of petrol expected to rise above 180p this week and diesel to move further to 190p.
Brent crude reached $ 120 a barrel on Monday morning amid doubts that production-growth targets among major producers would help ease tight supply.
The limited refining capacity increases the pressure on the prices of refined products, while exchange rates also play a role, as refined fuel is sold in US dollars. Ireland, which has no refinement capacity, is considering ordering people to work from home under coronavirus-blocking style emergency plans.
The Irish government discussed limiting car travel, lowering the speed limit on motorways and fuel rationing, as well as the order to stay home for non-essential workers.
Dublin lifted the rules that enforced work from home in January this year, but the government and state agencies discussed recovering the rule during an emergency planning exercise.