Are electric cars cheaper to maintain than petrol or diesel cars?

Yes, EVs are generally cheaper to maintain due to fewer moving parts and no need for oil changes, exhaust repairs, or complex engine servicing. Regenerative braking also reduces wear on brake pads, lowering overall maintenance costs.

What are the most common maintenance costs for electric cars?

The main costs include tyre replacements, brake fluid changes, air conditioning servicing, and occasional battery coolant top-ups. Software updates and 12V battery replacements may also be needed, though many EVs cover these needs through automatic over-the-air (OTA) updates.

How much does it cost to replace an electric car battery in the UK?

Battery replacement costs vary depending on the model but typically range from £5,000 to £10,000. However, most EV batteries last well beyond 10 years, and many manufacturers offer warranties covering at least eight years or 100,000 miles.

Do electric cars need regular servicing?

Yes, but servicing is generally less frequent and cheaper than for traditional ICE models. Routine checks include tyres, brakes, suspension, and battery health, but there’s no need for oil or exhaust system maintenance.

Are tyres for electric cars more expensive?

Yes, EV tyres can be slightly more expensive due to their need for stronger construction and better grip to handle the car’s additional weight and instant torque.

Do I have to pay road tax on my electric car?

Yes, from April 2025, all EVs will be required to pay the standard rate of road tax after a reduced first-year payment.

How much road tax will I pay for a plug-in hybrid?

Plug-in hybrids typically pay a reduced rate of road tax, depending on their CO2 emissions and the list price of the car’s model. From April 2025, EVs emitting 1-50g/km of CO2 and costing under £40,000 will pay £10 for the first year and then £195 annually.

Will road tax for electric cars increase in the future?

Yes, starting from April 2025, electric cars will no longer be exempt from road tax, and will be subject to the same rates as other vehicles - with the exception of the first year road tax rate, where substantial savings can still be made when picking an EV over an ICE vehicle.

Can I take my EV abroad?

Yes, you can take your EV abroad, including to Europe via the Channel Tunnel. Before you travel, be sure to check your car’s range, plan for ample charging stops, and ensure you have the right charging apps for the country you're visiting.

Is it easy to travel with an EV in Europe?

Yes, travelling with an EV in Europe is becoming increasingly easy. Many European countries have a well-developed charging infrastructure, particularly France, Germany, and the Netherlands. Planning ahead is key for a smooth journey, so be sure to use Europe-friendly route-planning apps like PlugShare or A Better Route Planner (ABRP) to locate public charging points along your route.

How do I find charging stations abroad?

There are several effective ways to find EV charging stations while travelling in Europe, including: EV apps: Use apps such as PlugShare, ChargeMap, or ABRP to locate chargers. Manufacturer navigation: Some EVs have built-in route planners that highlight available charging points. Hotel and accommodation sites: Some platforms like Booking.com and Airbnb often indicate if accommodation offers EV charging.