To answer this question we need to perform a lifecycle analysis on an electric vehicle. This requires studying the entire life of a vehicle from manufacture all the way to its end of life and potentially beyond if certain parts like the battery are repurposed. EV emissions can be broken up into the following categories:

The manufacturing process of electric vehicles, specifically their batteries, contributes to CO2 emissions. Battery production, involving the extraction and processing of materials such as lithium, cobalt, and nickel, is quite energy-intensive. Moreover, the extraction process itself can have significant environmental consequences, including water pollution and habitat destruction. Nevertheless, these 'upfront' emissions are often offset over the lifetime of the EV, particularly when you compare them to the continuous emissions produced by a conventional 

. Electric vehicles produce zero tailpipe emissions (exhaust), which means that once on the road, they are far less polluting than internal combustion engine vehicles. As the EV is driven more, this 'emissions debt' from the production phase gets paid off. Once the break-even point is reached, the EV becomes increasingly beneficial for the climate compared to a conventional car.

The environmental efficiency of an EV is also contingent on the source of the electricity used to charge it. In regions where the grid relies heavily on coal or other fossil fuels, EVs may not represent a drastic reduction in carbon emissions when compared to highly efficient ICE vehicles. On the other hand, as the energy sector continues to shift towards more renewable energy sources, the carbon footprint of charging an EV lessens. Therefore, the impact of EVs will continually improve as we transition towards greener grids.

Currently, recycling electric car batteries presents a considerable challenge. These complex components require advanced recycling techniques to reclaim valuable materials and prevent hazardous waste. Despite these challenges, significant progress is being made in this field, with some companies already demonstrating effective ways to 

 of battery components. These advancements could play a significant role in minimising the demand for new raw materials and mitigating the environmental costs of battery production.

The use of cobalt in EV batteries has been a subject of concern due to the environmental and ethical implications linked to its mining, predominantly in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Recognizing this issue, many manufacturers are now aiming to decrease or even entirely eliminate the use of cobalt in their batteries, developing new technologies to make this possible. It’s important to remember that mining of rocks and metals is something that we’ve done for decades to support the production of fuels for petrol and diesel cars.

The rising adoption of electric vehicles is largely driven by their potential for reducing our carbon emissions. However, the question remains, how green are EVs truly?

Are EVs green?

The Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) of electric vehicles (EVs) in the UK varies significantly depending on the model and make of the car, the type of financing, and individual usage. However, despite higher initial purchase prices, when factoring in costs over the lifetime of the vehicle, EVs can present a more economical alternative to traditional 

 The upfront cost of new EVs tends to be higher than their ICE counterparts due to the cost of the battery technology. A brand new entry-level EV can cost around £25,000. However, various financing methods like leases, loans, and 

Personal Contract Purchase (PCP)

 The cost to charge an EV depends on several factors, including the cost of electricity and the battery capacity. On average, charging an EV at home with a standard electricity rate could cost about 32p per 

. Therefore, charging a 60kWh battery (common in many EV models) would cost around £19. Public charging stations, while more expensive, still often come out cheaper than the cost of petrol or diesel.

Kilowatt-Hour (kWh)

 EVs typically have lower maintenance costs than ICE vehicles. They have fewer moving parts and do not require oil changes, which significantly reduces the frequency of maintenance. It is estimated that an EV could save an owner up to 70% on maintenance costs over its lifetime.

 Initially, insurance for EVs was more expensive due to the higher purchase price and the specialized repairs needed. However, as EVs become more common and repair networks more established, insurance costs are gradually decreasing. As of July 2023, the difference in insurance cost between an EV and a comparable ICE vehicle was minimal.

In conclusion, while the upfront cost of EVs can be higher, the lower running, maintenance, and potentially insurance costs can result in a lower total cost of ownership over the lifetime of the vehicle.

What about the residual (future) value of used EVs?

The residual value, or the future value of a car after a specific period, is another critical component of the Total Cost of Ownership for EVs. The residual value can be heavily influenced by factors like vehicle reliability, demand, media coverage, technology advancements, and government incentives.

Historically, EVs suffered from faster depreciation rates than ICE vehicles, partly due to concerns over battery life and technology obsolescence. However, this trend is changing rapidly as EV technology improves, and consumer confidence grows.

In recent years, as more consumers and businesses are adopting EVs, demand for used electric cars has been rising in the UK, leading to stronger residual values. Additionally, advancements in battery technology and longer range capabilities are improving the longevity and thus the residual value of EVs.

Moreover, the UK government’s commitment to ban the sale of new petrol and diesel cars by 2030 is expected to have a significant positive effect on the future value of EVs. As this deadline approaches, the demand for electric cars, both new and used, is expected to increase, which should help retain and potentially even increase their value over time.

That said, the residual value of EVs can still vary significantly depending on the specific model and make of the car. For example, premium EV models from brands like Tesla tend to retain their value better than some lower-cost models, which can significantly impact the total cost of ownership.

To conclude, while there's a positive trend for the value of used EVs, consumers should carefully consider this factor, along with the initial purchase price, charging costs, maintenance costs, and insurance costs, to gain a comprehensive understanding of the total cost of owning an EV.

The Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) is an important calculation to ensure that vehicle costs are being considered over the medium/ long-term and include all of the elements of running, fuelling and maintaining the car.

Total Cost of Ownership

The UK has been witnessing an unprecedented surge in electric car adoption, recently 

 in the number of registrations. This momentum prompted the government to revise its policies with a notable change in the scheduled termination of the road tax exemption for electric vehicles (EVs) from April 1st, 2025. Here, we explain what it means to electric car owners and prospective buyers in the UK.

Understanding Road Tax (Vehicle Excise Duty)

Let’s hit the road with basics, Road tax, officially Vehicle Excise Duty (VED), is an annual payment levied on motor vehicle owners who use or park on public roads across the UK with the intention of generating revenue for the maintenance and improvement of the country’s roads.


Calculation of the individual road tax relies on the carbon emission of the vehicle. In simple terms, this incentivises cleaner and more sustainable transportation by writing the check based on how much the car pollutes the environment.

In line with these goals, fully electric cars have been exempt from the road tax (VED). To be eligible for this exclusion, the EV must draw electricity from specific sources, including home charging and external charging points. This exemption will continue until April 1st, 2025 meaning EV owners will not pay road tax until then.

Upcoming changes to Road Tax in April 2025

 said that the policy had been successful in bringing more EVs onto the roads and noted the need to make taxation “fairer”. Hence, the government announced the termination of the VED (or Road Tax) exemption for electric cars, effectively coming into effect on April 1st, 2025 applying to both new and existing electric cars.

The change in the policy direction is also reflected in the earlier announcement about the end of the expensive car supplement for vehicles exceeding £40,000 in value, again in April 2025.


Financial implications - how much will you pay?

Under the updated system, effective from April 1st, 2025, zero-emission vehicles will be subject to what is currently the first band rate of the road tax. This means new EV owners then will pay a reduced rate of £10 in their first year, followed by the standard rate of £180 annually from their second year onwards, with current rates.


For those who purchased their electric cars between April 1st, 2017, and March 31st, 2025, they will transition directly to the standard rate of £180 per year, bypassing the reduced first-year rate.

Furthermore, with the end of the expensive car supplement exemption for EVs, new owners of electric cars valued over £40,000, with current policy, will face an additional charge. Starting in their second year of ownership, they will contribute to the VED with an extra £390 annually for five years, based on the current rates. This might affect the long-term calculations for higher-value EVs.

More broadly, the Office for Budget Responsibility (OBR) estimates that the VED alone will generate 

 in the current financial year, a significant portion of the 

 spent on local and national road infrastructure last year. With the policy change in April 2025, the OBR anticipates an additional 

 in tax revenues for the fiscal year 2025-26.

The ending of the road tax exemption for EVs is a significant change to policy, but the government suggests that it’s a necessary step towards a more balanced transportation strategy in the UK. It will introduce additional costs for current and prospective EV owners - sometimes £600 a year in the case of some premium EVs, bringing EV road tax into parity with ICE vehicles.

Despite these changes, the government remains compliant with supporting the EV transition commitments. Various tax incentives, favouring Company Car Tax rates and charging point support schemes, underscore this commitment.

The upcoming end of road tax exemption for EVs on April 1st, 2025 has financial implications for EV owners and prospective buyers. This article aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the changes and their impact on the adoption of cleaner transportation options.


Road tax (Vehicle Excise Duty)

Here's an overview of important aspects related to insuring EVs:

EV owners can typically choose from similar coverage options as traditional car owners, including liability, collision, comprehensive, and personal injury protection (PIP). It's crucial to understand the specific coverage offered by insurance companies and tailor it to your needs.

The value of an EV tends to be higher compared to a gasoline-powered car due to advanced technology and battery systems. Ensure your insurance policy covers the replacement cost or the agreed value of your electric vehicle in case of damage or total loss.

The battery is a critical and expensive component of an EV. Some insurance providers offer separate coverage for the battery, protecting against damage or degradation. Consider exploring policies that include battery coverage or evaluating separate warranty options.

EV insurance may also cover your home charging equipment, including charging stations and cables. Check with your insurance provider if such coverage is included or available as an add-on.

EVs have specific maintenance and repair requirements. Ensure your policy covers these aspects, including specialized repairs for electric drivetrain components and battery systems.

Some insurance companies offer discounts or incentives for EV owners due to their environmentally friendly nature. These may include reduced premiums, incentives for using public charging infrastructure, or discounts for installing home charging stations.

Insurance premiums for EVs can be influenced by various factors, such as the make and model of the vehicle, driving history, annual mileage, and location. It's advisable to compare quotes from multiple insurance providers to find the best coverage at a competitive price.

Remember, this overview is a general guide, and it's always a good idea to consult with insurance professionals or directly contact insurance companies for specific details and options tailored to your EV and personal circumstances.

Is it more expensive to insure an electric car?

At the moment, insurance premiums for electric vehicles tend to be greater than for petrol or diesel cars. The main reason for this is the more specialized nature of servicing and parts replacement for electric vehicles.

Electric vehicles pose certain unique challenges for insurance providers. These include:

The necessity for repairs conducted by specialist mechanics.

Currently, these factors contribute to making insurance policies for electric cars a bit more costly than those for comparable ICE vehicles. However, as the prevalence of electric vehicles increases, and with the forthcoming ban on new petrol and diesel cars slated for 2030, it's expected that the insurance costs for electric cars will decrease. Eventually, these prices are likely to become more affordable than those for their ICE counterparts.

Do most motor insurance companies insure electric cars?

Pioneers in the insurance industry such as 

 have successfully incorporated electric vehicles into their quote generation processes.

This development is beneficial for motorists, simplifying the task of obtaining insurance for electric cars, making it as easy as getting coverage for petrol or diesel-fueled vehicles.

Furthermore, some car makers offer insurance packages to their customers, following a model similar to that of conventional internal combustion engine vehicles.

If general insurers fail to meet your needs in terms of policy or service, there are specialized insurance providers catering to electric cars, with bespoke policies designed for low-emission vehicles.

With the wealth of options available now, securing insurance for electric cars has become more accessible than in the early days of electric motoring. For best results, you can browse comparison websites like MoneySuperMarket or Compare The Market to find the most suitable insurance for your electric vehicle, comparing prices from multiple providers.

What platforms can I use for comparing insurance policies for EVs?

The most common platforms for comparing car insurance are:

Insuring electric vehicles (EVs) is similar to insuring conventional cars, but there are a few key considerations to keep in mind.

Insurance

Running out of power in an electric vehicle (EV) on the road is similar to running out of fuel in a conventional vehicle - it's something you'd want to avoid. However, if it does happen, here's what you can do in the UK.

 If you're a member of a breakdown service like the 

, you can call them for assistance. Some of these services have small, mobile charging units that can provide enough charge to get you to the nearest charging station.

 Some regions in the UK have emergency roadside chargers, but these are not common everywhere.

 If no other option is available, you may need to request a tow to the nearest charging station.

 Most modern electric cars have a range of over 100 miles, and many new models can go over 200 miles on a full charge. Plan your journey ahead of time, taking into account the range of your vehicle and the locations of charging stations along your route. Take a look at 

 There are several smartphone apps and websites that can help you locate charging stations. Some of these, like 

 Just as you would keep an eye on your fuel gauge in a conventional vehicle, it's important to monitor your EV's battery level while driving.

It happens far less often than you might think, but even so this topic fills a lot of people with understandable dread.

Running out of Power

Here's a detailed rundown of the latest initiatives available in the UK:

 Up until April 2025, all electric vehicles are exempt from the annual VED, sometimes referred to as 

. This can save owners of electric vehicles several hundred pounds per year, especially when compared to owners of high-emission vehicles.

 The BIK tax, which applies to company car users, is significantly lower for electric vehicles than for petrol or diesel cars. From 2020/2021, the BIK tax rate for fully electric vehicles is 0%, increasing to 1% in 2021/2022 and 2% in 2022/2023. A salary sacrifice/ company car scheme lets employees pay for an electric car each month from their gross salary - that's before tax and other contributions are deducted. It's the same as other salary sacrifice schemes, such as childcare, cycle to work schemes, or pension contributions.

 This grant provides funding of up to 75% towards the cost of installing electric vehicle smart charge points at domestic properties across the UK. It replaced the Electric Vehicle Homecharge Scheme (EVHS) on 1 April 2022. You can only apply for the grant if you own or manage flats, houses, apartment blocks or business premises.

 This scheme is a voucher-based system that provides support towards the upfront costs of the purchase and installation of electric vehicle charge-points for eligible businesses, charities and public sector organisations. It provides £350 per socket, for up to 40 sockets.

Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ) and Congestion Charge Exemption:

 Electric vehicles that meet the required emission standards are exempt from the London Congestion Charge. They also don't have to pay the ULEZ charge.

The green number plates not only give recognition to the EV owners' contribution to reducing emissions but may also come with benefits such as cheaper parking and cost-free entry into zero-emission zones.

 In Scotland, interest-free loans of up £30,000 are being offered to help people buy 

 electric vehicles. These loans must be repaid over a five-year period.

These incentives and grants aim to encourage the uptake of electric vehicles in the UK, and to support the government's commitment to reduce carbon emissions and air pollution.

An EV salary sacrifice scheme is an agreement between an employee and their employer, where the employee agrees to give up a portion of their salary in exchange for a non-cash benefit, such as an electric vehicle (EV). The employer then leases an electric vehicle on behalf of the employee, and the cost of the lease, including maintenance and insurance, is deducted from the employee's gross salary.

The relation of this scheme to Benefit-in-Kind (BIK) tax comes from the fact that the non-cash benefits, such as company cars, are considered as income and are therefore taxable. However, the BIK tax rate for electric vehicles is significantly lower compared to vehicles powered by traditional fuels.

This lower BIK tax rate makes electric vehicles an attractive option for both employees and employers. For employees, it can be a more cost-effective way to own an EV, as the cost of the lease is deducted from their gross salary, and it reduces the amount of tax they have to pay. For employers, offering EVs as part of a salary sacrifice scheme can help to reduce their National Insurance contributions, as these are based on the employee's reduced gross salary.

Below is a list of some of the companies out there currently offering salary sacrifice schemes:

 off the purchase of new low-emission vehicles which cost less than £35,000. As of 14 June 2022, this grant is no longer available to new EV drivers. There are currently no future plans to bring this grant back into play.

Keeping up with the ever changing grants and incentives for EV owners and businesses can be an overwhelming task so we’ve put together a detailed rundown of the latest initiatives available in the UK.

Grants and incentives

The UK has been experiencing a surge in electric car adoption, with 

 expected to hit the roads in 2024. However, despite the growing popularity of EVs, misconceptions and concerns still linger in the minds of many. Range anxiety and fears about rapid battery degradation continue to influence public perceptions, even prompting 

 to debunk myths around ‘batteries needing replacement after 5 years’.

The electric car industry has come up with many innovations and technologies to reduce the effects of battery degradation. However, the rate of degradation is directly linked to the treatment of the car throughout its lifetime, meaning that outliers do exist. To help you identify these bad apples, we’ve developed a self-service mobile app that provides an 

. It efficiently detects electric cars with atypical battery performance, ensuring swift resolution.

Recently, we found out that one of our customer’s electric car’s batteries had degraded faster than expected due to regular rapid charging and high speed driving. The customer was left confused about the options available to them for repairing the battery, believing their vehicle’s warranty had expired. Upon further investigation, we found that while the manufacturer’s warranty for the EV had lapsed, the battery warrant was, in fact, still valid.


Inspired by the long pages of documents and contracts that we all sign without paying attention to the small print, we wanted to delve into the differences between manufacturer and battery warranties to ensure customers understand the fine print for both. In the meantime, join our growing 

 to test the battery performance of your car.

The factory warranty, also referred to as the manufacturer or vehicle warranty, is the most comprehensive coverage of protection during the initial period of your purchase. Designed to ensure that the car meets quality standards, the producer guarantees to replace or repair almost any component where you face a defect in your electric car. These issues mostly arise from issues with craftsmanship or the material itself.

Generally, the manufacturer warranty will last between 3 years/36,000 miles and 5 years/60,000 miles. This means that, for example, the warranty would be valid for either 3 years or up to 36,000 miles, whichever is exceeded first. The exact duration and transferability of this warranty will depend on the car manufacturer’s policy. Some manufacturers also extend the warranty to their certified pre-owned (CPO) vehicles, so make sure to check before buying.

Manufacturer warranties cover almost all components, providing the most extensive shielding during the initial period of your vehicle ownership. Both mechanical and electrical parts are covered including the motor, battery pack, charging system, suspension, and air conditioning and heating systems.

Separate to the vehicle’s warranty, manufacturers often warrant the performance of the battery. This is because the performance of the battery naturally declines over time.

Manufacturers typically offer battery warranties that last 8 to 10 years or 100,000 miles, whichever comes first.

Unsurprisingly, the battery warranty in electric cars will provide extended protection for the most crucial component of the vehicle - the battery. The repair or replacement will take place mostly when there are manufacturer defects or excessive loss of battery capacity due to the manufacturer’s mishandling during service.

Within the scope of battery warranties, manufacturers will often commit to either repair or replace your electric car battery if its usable energy capacity dips below a certain threshold. The industry standard for this benchmark figure is 70%, although batteries can still be used beyond this point in second life applications.


With that being said, the lifecycle of an electric car battery contains a critical juncture similar to a tipping point, often referred to as the ‘knee point’. Before reaching this stage, the battery’s degradation follows an almost perfect linear pattern. However, once this knee point - which commonly occurs around the 60-70% mark of the battery’s original capacity - is reached, the rate of degradation accelerates significantly.

Be aware that not all car models come with a clearly stated maximum degradation threshold from the manufacturer. Therefore, it's advisable to inquire about this detail before making a purchase. For continuous and precautionary monitoring, download our easy-to-use, self-service 

, which will give you an independent and impartial assessment of your vehicle’s battery performance.

Battery and manufacturer warranties for top 5 most selling Electric cars in the UK


Here are warranty durations for the best selling cars in the UK:

: Tesla provides a warranty of 4 years (or 50,000 miles) for the manufacturer/vehicle warranty and 8 years (or 100,000/120,000 miles - depending on the model) for its battery warranty

: Kia provides its cars with a vehicle and battery warranty of 7 years (or 100,000 miles).

: Volkswagen cars come equipped with a 3 years (or 60,000 miles) manufacturer warranty, in addition to the battery warranty that lasts for 8 years (or 100,000 miles)

: Like Volkswagen, Nissan also provides a 3 years (or 60,000 miles) of manufacturer warranty, and the battery warranty is for 8 years (or 100,000 miles).

: Mini’s 3 years of manufacturer warranty comes with no limit to the mileage, however, the battery warranty will last 8 years (or 100,000 miles) too.

Early detection of battery issues, facilitated by our flagship EV Battery Health Checker app, is crucial for timely warranty claims and extending the lifespan of your car. Join our growing community of testers now to monitor and maintain your electric car’s battery health effectively!

This article delves into electric vehicle (EV) warranties outlining how warranties differ between a vehicle and its battery, one of the key components in an EV. Recognising these differences is essential for making informed purchasing decisions. The discussion is aimed at demystifying warranty terms and conditions, equipping buyers with the knowledge needed to navigate the evolving landscape of electric mobility confidently.

EV Warranties

Do I still have to pay for parking if I’m charging in a car park?

The cost associated with charging your electric vehicle (EV) in a car park can vary greatly depending on the location and the provider of the charging service. Some locations may allow free parking while you are charging, while others might require you to pay for parking in addition to the electricity cost of charging your vehicle.

Some charging networks may include the cost of parking in their charging fees, whereas others may not. It's also worth mentioning that some car parks might have separate parking and charging fees, meaning you would need to pay for the parking space and for the electricity to charge your vehicle.

Given these factors, it's always a good idea to check the specifics of the charging location, the charging provider's policy, and any signage or information provided at the physical location. Keep in mind that these policies and fees can change, so it's always best to check for the most up-to-date information.

Can I get free resident parking if I have an EV?

The UK does not have a national policy that provides free resident parking permits for electric vehicles (EVs). However, some local councils might offer incentives for electric vehicles, including reduced fees for parking permits, free charging in public car parks, or priority parking. You would need to check with your local council to see what incentives they might offer for EV owners.

The cost associated with charging your electric vehicle (EV) in a car park can vary greatly depending on the location and the charging service provider. 

Parking

What options do I have for charging at home?

 You can use a standard UK three-pin plug with an Electric Vehicle Supply Cable. This method is often referred to as "trickle charging" because it delivers electricity at a slower rate. It's a convenient option because it doesn't require special equipment installation, but it's also the slowest way to charge. If your car's battery is nearly empty, it could take more than 24 hours to fully charge it using a standard plug. This might be suitable if you use your car infrequently or usually only for short trips.

Using a Home Charging Station (Wall Box):

 A home charging station, also known as a wall box, is a device that's installed in your home (usually on an exterior wall or in your garage) and is connected to your home's electricity supply. This is a much faster way to charge your electric vehicle than using a standard plug. Depending on the power of the charging station and the specific electric vehicle, it could take as little as 3-4 hours to fully charge your car's battery from nearly empty. Most people find this the most convenient way to charge, as they can simply plug their car in overnight and it will be fully charged in the morning.

Both methods are safe and come with inbuilt safety features. However, because of the significantly faster charging times, many people find it worthwhile to have a home charging station installed if they use their electric vehicle regularly.

The time it takes to fully charge your electric vehicle (EV) at home using a home charging station, also known as a wall box, can vary depending on several factors:

 Different EVs have different battery sizes, measured in 

. The larger the battery, the longer it will take to charge.

 If your battery is nearly empty, it will take longer to charge than if it's half full. Most of the time, you'll be topping up rather than charging from empty.

 Home charging stations in the UK typically deliver power at 3.6 

, 7 kW, or 22 kW. Most home chargers are either 3.6 kW or 7 kW. The higher the power, the faster your car will charge. Note that not all cars can accept 22 kW, and those that can may require a three-phase power supply, which is not available in all homes.

Kilowatts (kW)

A 7 kW home charging station can charge a typical electric car with a 60 kWh battery (e.g. Nissan Leaf Plus) from empty to full in about 8-9 hours.

A 3.6 kW home charging station would take about 16-17 hours to do the same.

Most people plug in their EV when they get home and let it charge overnight, so it's ready to go in the morning. If your daily driving distance is less than your car's 

, your car will spend much less time charging each night.

Range

How long does it take to get a charging station installed?

The installation of a home charging station, or wall box, for an electric vehicle (EV) typically takes between 2 to 4 hours, but it can sometimes take longer depending on the specific circumstances of your property.

Here's a general overview of the process:

: Before the installation, the company might conduct a survey of your property, either virtually or in person. They will check your electrical panel to make sure it can handle the extra load and find a suitable location for the charger. This could be in your garage, on an exterior wall, or somewhere else convenient where your car will be parked.

: On the day of the installation, the installer will mount the charging station in the chosen location, run a cable from it to your electrical panel, and connect it to the electrical system. They will then test it to make sure it's working properly.

: After the installation, you should receive certification that the installation has been done correctly and meets all the necessary standards.

 Typically, the process which includes an initial survey (which might be done virtually), scheduling the installation, and then the installation itself can be completed within a few weeks, but this is highly variable.

Remember, it's important to use a qualified and experienced installer to ensure that the work is done safely and correctly. In the UK, you might be able to get a grant from the government to help cover the cost of the installation. The installer can usually help you with the process of applying for this.

The cost of a home charging station (also known as a wall box) and the cost of installation can vary based on several factors, including the brand and model of the charging station, local labour rates, and the specifics of your home's electrical system.

: At the time of writing, a typical 7 kW home charging station in the UK would cost between £400 and £800. However, more advanced models with additional features like smart charging capabilities, which allow you to control the charging via a smartphone app, may cost more.

The EV chargepoint grant provides funding of up to 75% towards the cost of installing electric vehicle smart charge points at domestic properties across the UK. It replaced the Electric Vehicle Homecharge Scheme (EVHS) on 1 April 2022. The grant is available for people who live in a rented property or own a flat with dedicated off-street parking. For full eligibility criteria you can find more information 

: Installation costs can also vary widely. On average, you might expect to pay between £200 and £500 for a standard installation. However, if your home requires upgrades to its electrical system, or if the charger needs to be installed a long distance from your electrical panel, the installation could cost more.

Below is a list of some but not all UK charge point providers:

: BP Chargemaster is one of the largest providers of electric vehicle charging infrastructure in the UK and offers a range of home charging points.

 Pod Point is another well-known provider of home charging solutions in the UK. They offer smart chargers that can be managed through a mobile app.

: EO Charging provides simple, smart home chargers that are small and compact.

: Rolec EV is one of the world's leading manufacturers of electric vehicle charging points and offers a variety of options for home charging.

: Andersen EV offers high-end, stylish charging points that can be customised to blend in with your home exterior.

: In addition to its Supercharger network, Tesla also provides home charging solutions, but these are specifically designed for Tesla vehicles.

Remember, when choosing a charging point provider, consider not just the upfront cost of the charger, but also factors like its power output, whether it has smart charging features (which can allow you to take advantage of 

), the length of the warranty, and reviews from other users.

Off-peak Electricity Rates

In short, smart charging gives you more control over your EV charging, can help save you money, and can be better for the environment by making more efficient use of renewable energy and reducing peak demand on the electrical grid.


: With smart charging, you can set your EV to charge at certain times, like during off-peak hours when electricity may be cheaper. This can save you money and also helps to balance demand on the electrical grid.

 If you have a home renewable energy system, like solar panels, smart charging can coordinate charging with times of high solar production, helping you to maximise the use of your renewable energy.

 Smart charging can also manage the power demand of your home. For instance, if you're using a lot of electricity for other things, the system might slow down charging to avoid overloading your home's electrical system.

: Smart chargers usually come with a mobile app, which allows you to control and monitor your charging remotely. This can be handy for managing your charging schedule, checking on your charging status, and keeping track of your electricity usage.

: Smart chargers can often receive software updates over the internet, which can provide new features or improvements over time.

The cost to charge an electric vehicle (EV) at home will depend on a few factors:

 The cost of electricity varies based on your location and your electricity provider's rates. In the UK, at the time of writing, the average cost of electricity is 32-34 pence per kWh (kilowatt-hour). This value changes regularly and can be influenced by events going on around the world as well as government policy.

 The battery capacity of your EV is measured in kWh. An EV with a larger battery will use more electricity to charge from empty to full.

: Not all of the electricity that you use to charge your EV gets stored in the battery. Some of it is lost in the charging process, especially when the battery is nearly full. On average, you might expect about 85% of the electricity you use to go into the battery, but this can vary based on the vehicle and the charger.

As an example, let's say you have an electric vehicle with a 60 kWh battery. If you charge it from completely empty to full, and the cost of electricity is 32 pence per kWh, it would cost 60 kWh * 32 p/kWh = £19.20.

This is just a rough estimate. Your actual costs can vary based on the factors I mentioned above. Also, you typically won't drain your battery completely before charging, so often your actual costs will be less.

Some EV owners also take advantage of lower off-peak electricity rates by charging their vehicles overnight, which can further reduce the cost. If your charging station has smart charging features, it can automatically schedule charging to take advantage of these lower rates.

Remember to check with your local utility company for the most accurate and current electricity rates.


While having a home charger is not absolutely necessary for owning an electric vehicle (EV), it can make the charging process significantly more convenient. Here are some considerations:

 Charging at home is typically done overnight, just like charging your mobile phone. You wake up to a fully charged vehicle, ready for the day ahead. This eliminates the need to wait at public charging stations.

 Charging at home is usually cheaper than public charging, especially if you have a home energy tariff that offers cheaper electricity rates during off-peak hours.

: You don't have to rely on the availability of public charging stations or worry about them being out of service or occupied.

That said, if you can't install a home charger due to living in an apartment, rented accommodation, or not having off-street parking, there are alternatives:

	If you have a home charger but do not have off-street parking or a driveway, services like 

 can install pavement cable gullies allowing you to connect your EV to your home charger.

 There are an increasing number of public charging stations at places like shopping centres, car parks, and on streets.

: Some employers provide charging stations for employees. This can be a very convenient way to charge your car whilst at work.

: Hotels, restaurants, and similar businesses are increasingly offering charging for customers.

Knowledge Hub

Going electric

Are EVs green?

Total Cost of Ownership

Road tax (Vehicle Excise Duty)

Insurance

Running out of Power

Grants and incentives

EV Warranties

Charging

Parking

Home charging

Public charging

kW vs kWh

AC vs DC charging

Connectors / tech specs

Car

Maximising electric car range

Experience of driving an EV

Understanding range

EV Heat Pumps

How does an EV work?

Battery degradation in EVs

Getting an EV