​Your electric car questions answered - the ultimate EV FAQ guide

Few aspects of the automotive industry have ever progressed as quickly as the move to electric cars. Fully electric cars and electric vans no longer represent an interesting niche; they’re now firmly part of the mainstream motoring landscape. 

It’s not hard to see why, either. The need to lower harmful emissions from road transport sources has been enshrined in legislation, both in the UK and across Europe. The 2035 ban on the sale of new petrol and diesel cars is supported by the Zero Emissions Vehicle (ZEV) Mandate that will effectively taper sales of internal combustion cars down well before that point. 

Car manufacturers have responded like their livelihoods depend on it (they do), rapidly expanding the range and capability of the electric cars on offer. We think switching to an EV has never been easier for consumers and high high numbers of them seem to agree: there are now over 1.1m pure electric cars on UK roads, up from just over 205,000 in 2020.  

These figures will continue to grow, too. Manufacturers are fully invested in the process of switching to pure electric power, while pressure on governments to combat climate change and clean up local air pollution will only increase. Electric cars are set to become cheaper and more capable with longer ranges and faster charging times and it’s likely to happen a lot faster than most people think.

An electric car might not suit your lifestyle right now but with the landscape changing so quickly, it’s likely that one soon will. Of course, it’s a completely unfamiliar technology to many people and as electric cars become more relevant, there are more questions that consumers need answering.

Is the time right for you to make the switch to electric? Will an electric car save you money? Are electric cars really more environmentally friendly? Can the UK’s electric car charging network make your EV ownership a seamless experience? This page is packed with answers to all these questions and more from our team of electric car experts. Read each of the concise answers below and click the links for the full in-depth explanations.       

Click the links below and we’ll answer all your electric car questions for you…

Should i buy an electric car? 

The big question for motorists in the modern era; should i buy an electric car? The simple answer is, it depends. The switch to EV power will come to almost all of us eventually but the situation today is that EVs aren’t for everyone, even if they are becoming more suitable for more people and more different use cases all the time. The key thing in deciding if you’re ready for an EV is to weigh-up the pros and cons of owning one, together with what you need your car to do. Read more about how to decide whether to buy an electric car…

What are the advantages of EVs?

Owning an electric car today is much easier than it used to be – and the good news is that things are only going to get better. 

Improvements in the battery range of EVs, lower prices and the expansion of the country’s charging network mean that an EV is as easy for many people to own as a petrol car. Perhaps even easier if you don’t cover a huge mileage
and have access to home charging.

If you can top up at home, then an EV makes a lot of sense. It’s common for an EV to be charged overnight ready for a day’s use, so you will be using electricity at a lower rate than during the day. It’s far cheaper than petrol or diesel. 

Electric cars are also far cheaper to tax than ICE models (they’re free at the moment, but will no longer be so after April 2025), while pure EVs are exempt from the London Congestion Charge and similar schemes. Servicing costs are much lower on EVs, too, chiefly because there is no engine to maintain. 

There are also enormous cost advantages for companies and company car drivers. The government aims to encourage EV ownership and so has made them extremely tax efficient. Driving an EV rather than a petrol or diesel can save drivers thousands in tax alone, every year.

But there is more to their appeal than just running costs. The nature of an EV powertrain means you get instant torque from the electric motors, unlike ICE cars where pulling power is delivered at varying engine speeds. That makes them impressively quick off the mark, while the electric motors also deliver excellent refinement. 

What are the disadvantages of EVs?

While range anxiety is no longer the issue it once was and the charging infrastructure has improved, electric cars are still not perfect for everyone. Public charging remains quite expensive, so if you have on-street or communal parking, you may be better off going down the hybrid route – for now, at least. 

The charging network is improving, but demand is increasing, too. Recharging on a journey requires patience and planning, as opposed to just pulling up at the pumps and filling the tank. 

Another factor that will stop some people from driving a pure EV is range anxiety – the fear that you either won’t get to your destination without having to charge your car up, or that you won’t be able to charge your car when you get there. It’s less of an issue than it once was, though, because the current crop of EVs can cover a range almost double that of their predecessors. They’re only going to get better, too. 

Cheaper electric cars are coming onto the market, but most are still relatively expensive compared with petrol and hybrid versions, and this will be a big factor for many buyers. However, if you keep an electric vehicle long enough, you may get the extra cost back in reduced running expenses, although the initial investment may put you off.

Read more about how to buy an electric car here…

Should I choose a hybrid, plug-in hybrid or electric car?

The age of the electrified car is now definitely upon us, and the prominence of hybrid, plug-in hybrid and electric cars is only going to grow in the coming years. 

But many of us remain concerned about which powertrain to go for. Fully electric cars don’t work for everyone and that’s where hybrids come in – with plug-in hybrids sitting in the middle ground. 

Hybrid cars are the easiest in terms of familiarity, because you don’t need to plug them in. If you’ve no means to charge an electric car (EV) at home, a hybrid could be the perfect solution. Hybrids also tend to cost less than plug-in or electric cars to buy, too.

Plug-in Hybrids (PHEVs) have a battery that will allow you to drive on electric power only for a number of miles. If you run out of power, you’ve got an internal-combustion engine to fall back on. PHEVs make most sense for those who mostly do shorter journeys, but who occasionally need the flexibility to do a longer trip. 

Fully electric cars (EVs) are the best in terms of exhaust emissions – they emit nothing – and these vehicles are improving all the time. A couple of years ago 150 miles per charge was deemed good, whereas these days the best EVs will cover 400 miles on a charge, rivalling a tank of petrol for overall range. Read more about how to choose between hybrid, plug-in hybrid or electric power…

Should I buy a used electric car?

A few years ago, a used electric car was a brave pill to swallow, because unknown factors such as battery life, residual values and whether the charging infrastructure would be good enough, put a lot of people off.
In addition, a lot of early EVs had a limited electric range, while others had a separate leasing agreement for the battery packs.

Today, things are a bit different. In February 2024, fully electric cars accounted for almost 15 per cent of new cars sales and that ratio is only going to increase. What was once only the domain of ‘early adopters’ has become commonplace, and used electric cars are obviously much more popular as a result. Therefore, if you’ve already established that an electric car will work for you as a new purchase, then a used one should also do the job perfectly well, and at a much lower cost. Just be aware, however, that older models don’t have as big a range as the latest generation of EVs. 

If short urban trips take up most of your driving, then an EV is ideal, because stop-start traffic will help limit battery depletion, and in some cars frequent braking will even replenish the battery while you’re on the move. Read more about buying a used electric car here…

Why can’t I still get a grant for an electric car?

The Government’s Plug-in Car Grant (PiCG) offered a saving of up to £5,000 against a new EV up until 2022, but this was removed once electric models accounted for more than 15 per cent of new-car sales. 

There are some exceptions, though. If you need a wheelchair-accessible vehicle, for instance, then grants of up to £2,500 are still on offer, as are similar incentives for people buying small vans for commercial purposes, or purpose-built taxis. Motorcyclists can still save at the moment, too, with electric bikes qualifying for a grant of up to £500. Read more about the plug-in car grant here…
 

How is electric car range measured – and is it realistic?

You may have noticed that the battery range of electric cars quoted by makers has changed in some cases in recent years, and not always for the better. This is especially true of some plug-in models that were often rated as capable of 150mpg-plus, which was unrealistic and unattainable. 

This is because the fuel economy of cars was previously tested via a type- approval system called the New European Driving Cycle (NEDC), which was designed in the eighties. This was replaced in 2018 by the Worldwide harmonised Light vehicle Test Procedure (WLTP) and Real Driving Emissions (RDE). These testing regimes have brought in tougher and more realistic laboratory criteria for fuel economy, CO2 and NOx assessments.

WLTP has a more realistic drive cycle than NEDC, which lasted for just 20 minutes and a total of 11km (6.8 miles) with strict speed, gear and even temperature controls. Testers cover over twice the distance on the WLTP test to get an official economy figure, while the average speed of the test has risen to 29mph (from 21mph), with a maximum of 81mph attained (up from 75mph).

All new cars on sale now have their fuel economy and CO2 emissions or their battery range tested via WLTP, meaning drivers are more likely to be able to achieve their car’s stated figures. Bear in mind, though, that WLTP range figures for EVs are still often greater than what you’ll achieve in real life, where congestion, driving style and ambient temperatures also play a big part. Read more about the WLTP range and efficiency tests here… 

How much does it cost to charge an electric car?

The cost of charging your electric car boils down to the cost of electricity. If you’re charging at home, you’ll be aware of the price you’re paying per kilowatt hour on your electricity bill with the UK average being around 24p as of June 2024. Electric car tariffs with cheaper electricity during the off-peak hours can lower this considerably though.

If you’re using public charging facilities the price will be higher. How much higher depends on the charging network and the charger speed. As a rough guide, you’re looking at around 85p per kilowatt hour for rapid charging (over 50kW speeds) and around 55p for fast charging (under 50kW speeds).  Read more about the cost of charging an electric car here…  

How much do electric cars cost to run?

Electric car running costs stack up extremely well next to those of equivalent petrol and diesel cars. The sums will vary according to how you use the car but EVs charged at home tend to be significantly cheaper to fuel than cars with internal combustion engines (ICE) and even if you charge exclusively using the fastest public rapid chargers, fuel costs are similar. 

Insurance can be expensive on some EVs for various reasons - including the cost of the battery, the lack of EV-trained technicians in UK workshops and the powerful performance - but other models are very reasonable. Electric cars also offer significant tax savings - especially for company car users - low maintenance costs and depreciation, once an issue for EVs, is starting to level out. Generally speaking, EVs are still more expensive to buy, but they should be significantly cheaper to run than an ICE equivalent, for most people. Read more about electric car running costs here…

How much is company car tax on electric cars?

Company car tax on electric cars is significantly cheaper than for cars with internal combustion engines. Currently EVs are all in the 2% tax band for Benefit-in-Kind company car tax but this will increase to 3% in April 2025. Read more about electric car company car tax here…

Are electric cars reliable?

Look at it this way: when things go wrong with petrol or diesel cars, the majority of expensive problems usually relate to the engine and gearbox. Electric cars don’t have either – they have electric motors that directly drive the wheels, so there are no expensive cambelts, clutches, oil pumps or cooling systems to worry about. In short, there’s less to go wrong so reliability is generally very good and servicing is often cheaper, too. 

Aside from the powertrain, everything else is pretty familiar. EVs’ brakes, steering, tyres and suspension aren’t really any different to other cars’, so while you’ll need to replace wear-and-tear items, you don’t need to worry about oil-change services or changing filters. 

The big question is EV battery degradation, however. There is clearly evidence of some loss of capacity after a lot of miles and charges, but it is not nearly as bad as some people predicted.  Read more about the most reliable cars here...

How long will electric car batteries last?

The biggest issue with electric cars, and particularly used EVs, is how well the batteries keep their charge. In the rare event you purchase a car that has trouble maintaining battery energy, then you’ll need to consider the cost of replacing the pack. This can be astronomical, although manufacturers now offer generous battery warranties, which should cover any issues.

This usually runs for longer than the car’s warranty. There was an industry-standard eight-year warranty on many models, although some earlier cars have a shorter five-year term. Either way, this should give you added peace of mind that the battery will keep its charge. Some brands even stipulate the acceptable capacity after eight years (often around 70 per cent), and will replace or refurbish the battery if it falls below this level.

The most common type of electric car battery is lithium-ion, which is the same as the packs in smartphones and computers. And, as with all batteries, these have a finite lifespan. Capacity is lost with every full charge and, in a car, this means the range decreases. However, you’ll have to do a lot of miles before you’ll see a significant drop in battery performance.

Batteries also suffer if they are exposed to very cold or very hot temperatures, or if the battery’s own temperature rises. Overcharging is stopped by software, but ‘deep discharge’ – using the battery’s maximum capacity repeatedly – is still a concern. That’s why charging to 80 per cent is recommended. Read more about how long electric car batteries last here…

What happens to old electric car batteries?

Even when the battery’s capacity is less than 70 per cent of the original, it still has plenty of life left in it. So, makers are converting them for domestic or commercial use, when they can store energy generated from solar panels. These second-life batteries are also used in various electronic items and appliances. Ten years from now, you may well find that part of your mobile phone began life as part of a Nissan LEAF.

Once they have finished being used in their second life, the batteries will be recycled to retrieve the precious metals. Recycling is one of the biggest challenges and areas of research for manufacturers of electric vehicles at the moment, especially with the very earliest EVs starting to reach the end of their service lives. Read more about electric car battery recycling here…

What is a heat pump on an electric car? 

Heat pumps are an efficient means of moving heat from one place to another. On electric cars they help use heat from the car’s battery to warm the cabin and can also work to maintain the battery’s temperature at optimum levels for longevity and effective charging. In short, they improve an electric car’s range and efficiency. They’re standard on some EVs and an optional extra on others. Read more about heat pumps on electric cars here… 

What are fast charging and rapid charging?

You will hear a lot of different terms used for different speeds of electric car charger but generally fast chargers are electric car chargers that deliver power at speeds of under 50kW in a Direct Current (DC) format. Rapid chargers are those that are usually above 50kW and use AC, or Alternating Current. The speed your car actually charges at when connected to a charger will also depend on the charging speeds it is able to accept and the amount of power available at that particular charger at that time. Read more about fast charging and rapid charging here…

Should i get a home electric car charger?

Charging your electric car at home is the most convenient and cost effective way to run an EV for most people but charging from a standard 3kW 3-pin plug will take a very long time. You need a home electric car charger or ‘wallbox charger’ to really get the full benefit of an electric car and these typically offer charging speeds of 7.4kW, although up to 22kW is available in some properties with a better electricity supply. 

Government incentives for homeowners installing wallboxes for home charging have been discontinued – but with some exceptions. The grant continues to be offered to those living in flats and to renters, where occupants can claim up to 75 per cent of the installation cost, deducted from the invoice by the installer. To apply for the grant you need to find an installer approved by the Office for Zero-Emission Vehicles (OZEV), who will complete the application process for you at the point of sale. Read more about getting a home electric car charger here… 
 

Can you tow with an electric car?

When electric cars were first emerging onto the market in serious numbers many had very limited towing capacities or were not rated for towing at all. This has changed now and there are no shortage of EVs that can tow a decent sized caravan. The ample torque you get with an electric motor is ideal for pulling heavy loads but what this does to the range figure is another question. Find out more about towing with an electric car here…

Is wireless EV charging the future?

Plugging in an electric car can be a faff – especially if you don’t have off-street parking – and the lack of infrastructure remains the biggest barrier to a lot of potential buyers. 

But will it always be this way? Electric cars, taxis and buses charging their batteries without a cable in public came a step closer recently when a trial of wireless-charging technology for taxis was announced in Nottingham. The move came following the announcement of Government plans to invest £40million into dedicated wireless charging research in the UK.

The research and development programme sees £20million dedicated to funding projects that investigate charging solutions for residential streets where electric-vehicle owners have no off-street parking. Both wired and wireless solutions will be considered. Some companies, including BMW, already offer static wireless charging systems, which use pads that replenish a car’s batteries when parked over them. The main issue with such set-ups is ensuring they are safe and efficient, because there are big losses of energy compared with wired connections.

A further £20 million is being earmarked for static and semi-dynamic wireless charging solutions for commercial vehicles. These would see taxis wirelessly charging their batteries when at ranks, for example, or delivery vehicles topping up their batteries at depots. In Cardiff, electric buses are on trial that feature “pantograph’ charging, where an overhead charger essentially ‘zaps’ the vehicle at each stop. This keeps the battery charged up and saves it from ever needing to be plugged in. 

The proposals were contained within the Government’s recently published Road to Zero strategy, which sets out how new cars sold in the UK from 2040 will “effectively” be zero emission. Ultimately, there’s a vision of dynamic wireless charging, where chargers in the road network replenish your car battery as you drive along. It all sounds a bit sci-fi and highly futuristic – until you look how far we’ve come in the past 20 years. Read more about wireless EV charging here…

What’s the history of electric cars?

Electric cars have been around for a lot longer than you might think. The first production electric car was launched in 1884 and numerous vehicles followed in the early years of the motor car until mass production techniques and falling oil prices made combustion engined cars cheaper. That dominance of petrol and diesel fuel pervaded until the present day but, better late than never, the electric car is back with a bang. Read more about the history of the electric car here…  

What's the future of electric cars?

Electric cars are the future and the technologies behind them are developing at a frightening rate. Ultra-fast chargers, wireless charging, solid state batteries, recyclable materials, clean energy, EVs are only going to get better and more environmentally friendly. Find out more about the future of the electric car here… 

Your electric car questions answered

• Should i buy an electric car?
• What’s the best way to buy an electric car?
• Is a hybrid, plug-in hybrid or electric car right for me?
• Should i buy a used electric car? 
• Can i get a plug-in car grant?
• How is electric car range calculated?
• How much do electric cars cost to charge? 
• How much do electric cars cost to run?
• How long do electric car batteries last?
• What happens to old electric car batteries?
• Should i get a heat pump on my electric car?
• What are fast charging and rapid charging?
• Should i get a home electric car charger?
• Can i tow with an electric car?
• Is wireless electric car charging the future?
• What’s the history of the electric car?
• What’s the future of the electric car?