Electric Vehicles (EVs) are quickly becoming a popular choice among UK car buyers, thanks to their environmental benefits, lower running costs, and advances in technology.
But if you’re considering making the switch to an electric car, there are a few key things you need to know about electric vehicles first.
Here are my five essential tips about buying EVs to help you make an informed decision.
1. The beginner’s guide to EVs
Types of EVs
There are several types of electric vehicles available, each with its own advantages and considerations:
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Battery Electric Vehicles (BEVs)
These cars are fully electric and rely solely on battery power. They produce zero tailpipe emissions and are often cheaper to run.
Examples include the Tesla Model Y, MG4 and the Audi e-tron range. BEVs are ideal for those committed to a fully electric driving experience and have access to reliable charging infrastructure.
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Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicles (PHEVs)
These vehicles combine a petrol or diesel engine with an electric motor and a battery that can be recharged by plugging in. They offer flexibility with a combination of electric range and traditional fuel backup.
Examples include the Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV and BMW 330e. PHEVs are perfect for those who want to dip their toes into the EV world without fully committing to an all-electric vehicle.
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Hybrid Electric Vehicles (HEVs)
HEVs use an electric motor to assist the engine but cannot be plugged in to recharge. The battery is charged through regenerative braking and the engine.
Examples include the Toyota C-HR. HEVs are a great choice for those looking to improve fuel efficiency without the need for external charging.
Charging Infrastructure
One of the most important considerations when buying an EV is understanding the charging infrastructure – unlike being able to stop at any petrol station, you’ll need to know how to charge your electric vehicle.
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Home Charging
Installing a home charging point is convenient and cost-effective. A dedicated home charger can also significantly reduce the time it takes to recharge your EV compared to using a standard three-pin plug.
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Public Charging
There is a growing network of public charging stations across the UK, including rapid chargers that can significantly reduce charging time. Websites and apps like Zap-Map and PlugShare can help you locate chargers, plan your route, and even check the status of charging points in real-time.
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Charging Speeds
Charging speeds vary depending on the charger type. Slow chargers (up to 3kW) are suitable for overnight charging, fast chargers (7-22kW) can charge most EVs in a few hours, and rapid chargers (43-240kW+) can provide an 80% charge in 30-60 minutes.
Understanding these differences will help you plan ahead and ensure you’re never caught off guard. Also, newer EVs may be capable of faster charging speeds than older EVs.
2. Are Electric Vehicles more expensive?
Purchase Price
When new, EVs tend to have a higher upfront cost compared to traditional petrol or diesel cars. However, this gap is closing as technology advances and more models become available. There are a couple of other pricing considerations to know about electric vehicles.
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Used EVs
The UK market is full of used EVs and they are currently much cheaper than brand-new versions. This can make EV ownership much more accessible.
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Tax Benefits
EVs are currently exempt from road tax (Vehicle Excise Duty) and benefit from lower company car tax rates, although, this is likely to change soon. This makes them an attractive option for business users and those looking to reduce their tax burden. You may also be able to use a Salary Sacrifice scheme for the purchase.
Running Costs
One of the biggest advantages of EVs is their lower running costs:
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Fuel Savings
Electricity is cheaper than petrol or diesel but only if you are charging at home, especially during off-peak hours. For instance, many energy providers offer special EV tariffs that provide cheaper rates for overnight charging. Be warned that public chargers are often just as expensive as running a petrol car.
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Maintenance
EVs have fewer moving parts than internal combustion engine vehicles, leading to lower maintenance and repair costs. There are no oil changes, fewer fluids to replace, and brake wear is reduced due to regenerative braking. This can lead to significant savings over the lifetime of the vehicle.
Resale Value
The resale value of EVs is currently very poor but it is improving as they become more mainstream.
Some of the factors affecting resale value include the EV’s battery health, brand reputation, and technological advancements. It’s wise to check the warranty on the battery and whether it is transferable to new owners too.
As the UK government restricts the sale of brand-new combustion engine cars, demand for used EVs is likely to increase, boosting their resale value further.
3. Driving Experience
Performance
EVs are known for their smooth and quiet driving experience, offering instant torque and providing rapid acceleration.
In fact, many drivers find that EVs perform better than traditional cars, especially in urban settings where quick acceleration and deceleration are common.
The low centre of gravity, due to the battery placement, also improves handling and stability, making EVs fun to drive.
Range Anxiety
Range anxiety, the fear of running out of battery before reaching a charging point, is a common concern. However, advancements in battery technology have significantly increased the range of modern EVs.
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Realistic Range
Most modern EVs offer a range of 200-350 miles on a single charge. This is more than enough for daily commuting and typical usage. For example, the Tesla Model 3 Long Range can achieve over 300 miles on a full charge, which also makes it suitable for longer journeys.
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Planning
With apps and in-car navigation systems that show charging station locations, planning longer trips has become easier.
Rapid chargers on major routes can also help tackle range anxiety as you don’t spend the whole journey wondering if you’ll be able to charge your EV. Tools like A Better Routeplanner can help you plan trips, factoring in charging stops to ensure a smooth journey.
Regenerative Braking
Regenerative braking is a feature in EVs that recovers energy during braking and feeds it back into the battery. This not only extends the range but also reduces wear on the braking system.
It can feel different from traditional braking, but most drivers quickly adapt. Some EVs even offer adjustable regenerative braking, allowing you to customise the level of regeneration to suit your driving style.
4. Environmental Impact
Reduced Emissions
EVs produce zero tailpipe emissions, making them a cleaner choice for the environment and helping improve air quality, especially in urban areas.
If you charge them using renewable energy sources, the environmental benefits are even greater and the UK government’s push towards renewable energy means that the electricity grid is becoming cleaner, so EVs are only getting more and more environmentally friendly.
Energy Efficiency
EVs are also more energy-efficient than internal combustion engine vehicles.
They convert a higher percentage of the energy from the battery to power the wheels, reducing overall energy consumption. According to the Energy Saving Trust, electric cars are three times more efficient than conventional vehicles.
Battery Recycling
As EV adoption grows, so does the focus on battery recycling and sustainability. Companies are developing methods to recycle EV batteries, reducing the environmental impact of battery production and disposal.
For example, Nissan repurposes old Leaf batteries for energy storage systems, and Tesla recycles battery materials at its Gigafactories.
EV Production Environmental Impact
It’s not always as straightforward as EV = good. Bear in mind that a lot of rare materials and energy are required to produce an EV.
Experts disagree on how quickly that initial environmental impact is repaid when compared to a combustion engine car. Some believe it can be as quick as 2 years, others feel it is closer to 10.
But it is almost certain that as technology improves, EV production will continue to become more environmentally friendly.
5. Future Proofing
Government Policies
The UK government has set ambitious targets to phase out the sale of brand new petrol and diesel cars over the next few years.
This policy shift is driving the development of EV infrastructure and incentives, making EVs a more attractive option for anyone looking for their next car.
Local authorities are also implementing low-emission zones, which may restrict access to traditional vehicles and encourage the adoption of EVs.
Technological Advancements
The EV market is rapidly evolving with advancements in battery technology, charging solutions, and vehicle connectivity. Investing in an EV now means you are at the forefront of automotive innovation.
Features such as over-the-air software updates, autonomous driving capabilities, and enhanced connectivity are becoming standard in new EV models.
For example, Tesla’s Autopilot system and VW’s ID.3 over-the-air updates ensure your vehicle stays current with the latest features and improvements.
Market Growth
As more manufacturers, many originating in China, enter the EV market, the variety of models and price points is expanding.
This increased competition is driving down prices for new EVs and improving their overall quality.
From compact city cars like the Renault 5 to luxurious SUVs like the Audi e-tron, there’s now an EV to suit every need and preference.
At the same time, the second-hand market for EVs is growing, offering more affordable options for those looking to switch to electric.
Resilience to Fuel Price Fluctuations
When you’re considering the things you need to know about electric vehicles, one often overlooked benefit of EVs is their resilience to fuel price fluctuations.
While petrol and diesel prices can vary significantly due to world events, electricity prices are generally more stable. This stability can help in budgeting for vehicle running costs over the long term.
What you need to know about EVs: the essentials
Switching to an EV is a significant decision, but with if you look at all the information and consider how it fits your lifestyle, it can be a rewarding one.
By understanding the basics, considering costs and the driving experience, acknowledging the environmental benefits, and future-proofing your choice, you’ll be well-prepared to join the growing community of EV drivers in the UK.
For more detailed guidance on buying used cars, including EVs, refer to our comprehensive Used Car Buying Guide. If you need personalised assistance, Palmdale Car Finders is here to help you find the perfect EV with minimal effort. Happy driving! 🚗⚡