Why You Should Consider Owning an Electric Vehicle (EV)

As the world becomes increasingly aware of the need to reduce carbon emissions and combat climate change, electric vehicles (EVs) have emerged as a viable and attractive alternative to traditional petrol and diesel cars. In the UK, the government has set ambitious targets to phase out the sale of new petrol and diesel vehicles by 2030, making the switch to EVs more crucial than ever. In this article, we'll explore the compelling reasons why you should consider owning an EV.

1. Environmental Benefits

One of the most significant advantages of owning an EV is its environmental friendliness. EVs produce zero tailpipe emissions, meaning they do not contribute to air pollution or greenhouse gas emissions. By driving an EV, you can significantly reduce your carbon footprint and help mitigate the effects of climate change. Even when considering the emissions associated with electricity generation, EVs still have a lower overall environmental impact compared to petrol or diesel vehicles.

2. Lower Running Costs

Another compelling reason to switch to an EV is the potential for lower running costs. Electricity is generally cheaper than petrol or diesel, resulting in significant savings on fuel expenses. According to the Energy Saving Trust, charging an EV at home could cost as little as 2p per mile, compared to 10-15p per mile for a petrol or diesel car. Additionally, EVs have fewer moving parts than internal combustion engine vehicles, which means lower maintenance costs and fewer visits to the mechanic.

It's important to note that the VED rates for electric and low-emission cars depend on the registration date :-

• New electric and low-emission cars registered on or after 1 April 2025 will pay just £10 for the first year, and then the standard VED rate (currently £190) from year two.
• EVs and low-emission cars registered between 1 April 2017 and 31 March 2025 will have to pay the full VED rate (currently £190) from the beginning.
• Electric and low-emission cars registered between 1 March 2001 and 31 March 2017 will move to the first band that has a VED value (currently £20).

These rates are subject to change for 2025, but no revision has been made yet. Overall, these incentives not only make EVs more attractive from a financial perspective but also demonstrate the government's commitment to promoting sustainable transportation.

5. Which UK towns are the most EV-friendly?

Dudley, West Midlands, has been crowned the best town in the UK to switch to electric vehicles, earning an impressive EV readiness score of 8.11 out of ten. Despite having only 83 EV chargers, which equates to 2,398 people per charger, Dudley stands out for its cost-effectiveness and efficiency. An astounding 98% of the town's charging points are free to use, allowing residents to save money on charging costs. Moreover, Dudley boasts some of the fastest charging points in the UK, with an average charging time of just 2 hours and 29 minutes, making it an attractive option for EV owners.

Following closely behind is Nottingham, securing the second spot with a final score of 7.85 out of ten. Additionally, Nottingham residents can take advantage of 98% of charging points being free to use, further enhancing its appeal for EV adoption.

Slough secures the third position as the best city for EV ownership, with a score of 7.67 out of ten. Despite its lower charger availability, with 2,824 people per charger, Slough makes up for it with its high percentage of free charging points at 95%. 

Interestingly, while London has the highest number of EV charging points in the UK, it falls short in terms of cost-effectiveness, with 79% of its chargers requiring payment. Similarly, Liverpool has an even higher percentage of paid EV chargers at 81%.

4. Improved Driving Experience

Driving an EV offers a unique and enjoyable experience. Electric motors provide instant torque, resulting in smooth and responsive acceleration. The absence of a traditional engine also means that EVs are incredibly quiet, creating a more peaceful and relaxing driving environment. Additionally, many EVs come equipped with advanced technology features, such as regenerative braking, which allows the vehicle to recover energy during deceleration and extend its range.

5. Expanding Charging Infrastructure

One of the historical barriers to EV adoption has been the availability of charging infrastructure. However, the UK has made significant strides in expanding its network of charging points. As of 2021, there are over 42,000 charging connectors across the country, with plans to install more in the coming years. Many workplaces, shopping centres, and public car parks now offer on-site charging, making it easier than ever to charge your EV on the go.

6. Future-Proofing Your Investment

As the UK moves towards a more sustainable future, owning an EV can be seen as a way to future-proof your investment. With the government's plan to phase out petrol and diesel vehicles, the resale value of EVs is likely to increase in the coming years. By investing in an EV now, you can position yourself ahead of the curve and benefit from the long-term advantages of owning a zero-emission vehicle.

7. Variety of Models

In the past, the selection of EVs was limited, but today, there is a wide variety of models available to suit different needs and preferences. From city cars to spacious family SUVs, there is an EV for every lifestyle. Many major car manufacturers, such as Tesla, Nissan, Volkswagen, and BMW have developed impressive EV lineups, offering cutting-edge technology with impressive range and futuristic stylish designs.

Owning an electric vehicle is no longer just a novelty; it is a smart and responsible choice for the future. With compelling environmental benefits, lower running costs, government incentives, an improved driving experience, and an expanding charging infrastructure, the case for switching to an EV has never been stronger. As the UK continues to prioritize sustainable transportation, embracing EVs is a way to contribute to a greener future while enjoying the numerous advantages they offer. So, if you're considering a new vehicle purchase, it's time to seriously consider going electric.

At Warranty First, we're committed to supporting the transition to eco-friendly transportation. That's why we offer comprehensive warranty cover for electric vehicles (EVs) and hybrids. We believe in leading by example, which is why our entire fleet of 26 vehicles consists solely of EVs and hybrids, demonstrating our dedication to sustainability.