Electric vehicles in the UK are rapidly becoming a popular choice for those moving to the country, thanks to their cost-saving benefits and eco-friendly nature. If you’re relocating to the UK, understanding how to get around is an essential part of adjusting to your new life. Whether you’re used to driving a petrol or diesel car or are entirely new to the concept of electric vehicles (EVs), this guide will help you navigate the essential aspects of EV ownership in the UK.
From costs and government incentives to charging infrastructure and legal requirements, this comprehensive guide will provide everything you need to know about owning and operating an electric vehicle in the UK, helping to make your relocation process smoother and more environmentally friendly.
Why Choose Electric Vehicles in the UK?
The UK is at the forefront of the electric vehicle revolution, with the government and private sector investing heavily in infrastructure and technology. Here are some reasons why EV ownership is worth considering:
- Cost Savings: EVs are cheaper to run compared to petrol or diesel cars. Charging at home costs around 8p per mile, whereas running a petrol car can cost between 13p and 17p per mile (Electric Cars Report).
- Government Incentives: While the Plug-in Car Grant is no longer available, the UK government continues to offer incentives such as reduced road tax for electric vehicles.
- Eco-Friendly Benefits: Driving an EV helps reduce greenhouse gas emissions and supports the UK’s drive toward net-zero by 2050 (UK Net Zero Strategy).
- Urban Accessibility: With many UK cities introducing Ultra Low Emission Zones (ULEZ), EVs offer unrestricted travel and lower costs for urban driving (ULEZ Checker).
Costs of Electric Vehicles in the UK
Understanding the financial aspects of EV ownership is essential when planning your relocation.
- Purchase Price: As of August 2024, the average price of a new electric car in the UK was £54,324, with options ranging from £14,995 to £333,000 (Electric Car Guide). While there are no longer specific grants for purchasing EVs, tax incentives like lower road tax can still help reduce costs.
- Running Costs: EVs are exempt from road tax and generally have lower servicing costs. Charging at public stations costs around 30p–60p per kWh, while home charging can be even cheaper, averaging £15 for a full charge.
- Charging Installation: For flat owners, the EV Chargepoint Grant can cover up to 75% of the cost of installing a home charging station, with a maximum grant of £350.
Charging Infrastructure in the UK
The UK boasts one of the most advanced charging networks in Europe, making it easy to keep your EV powered.
- Public Charging Points: According to Zapmap, the public network’s charge point installation pace hit all-time highs in 2024. Over 20,000 additional charging stations were added throughout the year, increasing the total number nationwide to 73,699, a 38% increase from the previous year. The government aims to expand this to at least 300,000 by 2030.
- Home Charging: Overnight charging with a 7kW home charger is the most convenient option for most owners, providing a full charge in 6–8 hours.
- Workplace Charging: The Workplace Charging Scheme has funded the installation of over 51,000 sockets in office car parks since 2016, offering additional flexibility for EV users.
- Apps for Finding Chargers: Tools like ZapMap and PlugShare make it easy to locate nearby charging stations, compare prices, and check availability.
Driving Electric Vehicles in the UK
Owning an EV in the UK comes with its own set of legal and practical considerations:
- Driving Licence Requirements: Your foreign licence may be valid for up to 12 months. Beyond that, you’ll need to exchange it for a UK licence. Read our guide about this.
- Ultra Low Emission Zones (ULEZ): Many cities charge vehicles that don’t meet emissions standards. EVs are exempt, offering a significant advantage for city driving.
- Insurance: EV-specific insurance policies are widely available and often include coverage for charging equipment. Comparing providers on platforms like MoneySuperMarket can help you find the best deal.
Government Incentives
The UK government continues to support electric vehicle (EV) ownership through a range of incentives, including significant savings on road tax.
- Reduced Road Tax (Vehicle Excise Duty): Electric vehicles are exempt from paying Vehicle Excise Duty (VED), which is commonly known as road tax. In contrast, traditional petrol and diesel cars pay varying rates based on their CO2 emissions. Since EVs produce zero emissions, they qualify for this exemption.
- Tax Benefits for Company Car Owners: If you are relocating to the UK for work and are offered a company car, choosing an EV can offer additional benefits. Company car tax (Benefit-in-Kind, or BiK) for electric cars is significantly lower than for petrol or diesel vehicles. As of April 2024, the BiK tax rate for EVs is just 2%, compared to rates of up to 37% for traditional cars with high CO2 emissions. This makes EVs a financially attractive option for employees.
- Charging and Workplace Incentives: Beyond road tax, the government also offers the Workplace Charging Scheme (WCS), which provides funding for employers to install charging points at workplaces. This scheme has funded the installation of over 51,000 charging points since its inception.
These incentives, along with the growing number of charging points, make electric vehicles a compelling option for those relocating to the UK, ensuring that you can enjoy both financial savings and environmental benefits.
Overcoming Challenges
While EV ownership is increasingly practical, there are some challenges to consider:
- Range Anxiety: Modern EVs now cover up to 300 miles on a single charge, but planning is necessary for longer trips.
- Rural Charging Access: While charging infrastructure in rural areas is improving, there may still be fewer options compared to urban centres.
- Second-Hand Market: A growing number of second-hand EVs are available, often at significantly reduced prices compared to new models (AutoTrader EV Listings).
The Future of Electric Vehicles in the UK
The UK’s commitment to EVs is backed by ambitious government policies:
- Zero Emission Vehicle (ZEV) Mandate: By 2030, 80% of new cars and 70% of new vans must be zero emissions, rising to 100% by 2035.
- Charging Infrastructure Expansion: Plans to increase public charge points to 300,000 by 2030 reflect the government’s dedication to sustainable transport.
Final Thoughts on Electric Vehicles in the UK
Embracing electric vehicles in the UK is not just an environmentally responsible choice; it also offers practical benefits for those relocating to the country. With comprehensive infrastructure and support systems in place, owning an EV can make your transition to life in the UK both cost-effective and sustainable.
Speak to one of our experts or send a message today and find out how we can add value to your relocation programme.
