Why Buy Electric?

Why Buy Electric? The Pros and Cons of Buying an Electric Car

Introduction: The Rise of Electric Vehicles

Electric vehicles (EVs) have grown rapidly in popularity over the past decade. In 2013, EVs made up just 0.2% of new car sales in the UK. By 2023, that number had jumped to 16.5%, with over 315,000 new EVs registered.

The most popular EV brands in the UK include:

• Tesla (Model 3, Model Y)
• Nissan (Leaf – one of the UK’s best-selling EVs)
• Hyundai (Ioniq 5, Kona Electric)
• Volkswagen (ID.3, ID.4)

Pros of Buying an Electric Car

1. Lower Carbon Emissions

EVs emit zero CO₂ while driving. Even accounting for electricity production, an EV produces three times less carbon over its lifetime compared to petrol cars.

2. Cheaper Charging Costs

Charging an EV at home is much cheaper than petrol:

• Home charge (off-peak rate): ~£4.50 for a full charge
• Petrol cost for the same range: ~£40-£50

3. Lower Maintenance Costs

EVs have fewer moving parts, meaning no oil changes, no timing belt replacements, and fewer mechanical failures.

4. Government Incentives and Offers

EV owners benefit from:

• Company car tax savings (just 2% Benefit-in-Kind tax)
• Grants for home chargers (£350 government grant available)
• Favourable energy tariffs when charging with multiple providers

Cons of Buying an Electric Car

1. Higher Upfront Cost

The average EV costs £10,000 more than a petrol car, although used EV prices are coming down.

2. Range Anxiety

Some affordable EVs have limited range:

• Tesla Model 3 LR: ~350 miles
• Nissan Leaf: ~160 miles
• Fiat 500e: ~140 miles

Ranges are also impacted by the speed at which you drive and even the air con usage in the cabin. So I tend to take these ranges with a pinch of salt 

3. Charging Infrastructure Challenges

While public charging is improving, some areas still lack reliable chargers, and home charging isn't always an option for those without driveways.

I'll cover the home chargers on the market in my next post. 

Conclusion: Why EVs Are Still Worth It

Despite challenges, EVs offer long-term savings, environmental benefits, and lower running costs. As charging infrastructure expands and prices drop, switching to electric will become even easier. 

Personally, the entry price coupled with the investment in a home charging point has put me off so far, but free charging offers and favourable energy tarriffs are making it a more attractive offer. By the time I replace my old banger I'll almost certainly swap to an EV.

Always do your research and make sure if you're making the switch, it's the right decision at the right time for you.

What Do You Think?

Are you considering an electric car? What concerns do you have? Leave a comment below!