In today’s world, electric vehicles (EVs) are a viable alternative to diesel and petrol cars. The UK government has vowed to completely ban the production of petrol and diesel engines by 2035. So, electric vehicles are clearly going to be the predominant vehicle on our roads in the coming years. EVs have become more popular in the last few years as range and practicality improves.
But for consumers making the switch to harmful petrol and diesel engines to EVs, a lot of concern is about cost. Saving money on fuel at the pumps is all well and good, but is it possible to get a cheap energy deal? In this guide we will tell you about EVs and where to find the cheapest tariff possible.
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Learning about the different types of EVs is crucial before making the switch, Here we will explain the two most common types:
These are known as battery-only EVs, fully electric vehicles or all-electric vehicles. They also have a 100% battery-powered motor. Typically, a battery-only vehicle can travel between 100-200 miles on a single charge. Popular BEV models include the Kia e-Niro, Nissan Leaf and Renault Zoe.
PHEVs run on a battery-powered motor with an additional fuel-powered engine. PHEVs can run for up to 70 miles, with the fuel-powered engine providing back-up power for extra range. Popular PHEVs include the Mitsubishi Outlander, Volvo XC90 and Volvo XC60.
Various grants and exemptions exist to encourage people to buy an EV. Running costs are also cheaper for EVs. EDF Energy found that electric vehicle owners could save £41,000 on fuel over their lifetime, compared to the cost of charging their car.
Saving on purchasing and fuel is great, but how much does it cost to charge an EV? Electric Nation Smart Charging Trial data in 2018 found that 87% of electric car charging is done at home using a home charging point. The cost of charging your EV depends on two things:
Charging your EV at home is included in your regular electricity bill, so getting the cheapest energy deal and doing an energy comparison based on your personal needs is essential. Next, we will guide you through some of the best EV tariffs.
Many energy suppliers have EV tariffs specifically for households with EVs. These involve utilising off-peak charging times, for example at night when the grid is less in demand. All of the EV tariffs below are calculated by UK average unit electricity cost (p/kWh) and will help you find the most suitable EV energy deal for you. Note that prices may vary depending on where in the country you live, among other factors.
Good Energy – EV Driver 4
Off-peak: 12.2p/kWh
Good Energy knows that EV drivers tend to do most of their charging at home, not on the road. They created a tariff designed to make charging your EV more affordable. Their tariff can save you £20-£36 per year when compared to their Default tariff. Compared to their Standard Variable Tariff you could save over £80 a year.
OVO Energy – OVO Drive
From 13.5p/kWh
OVO’s Drive tariff offers a 12-month fixed price, with power from 13.5p per kWh day and night. The electricity you get is generated from 100% renewable sources and OVO will plant one tree a year in your time while you’re on the tariff. You also earn a 3-5% reward if your account stays in credit.
EDF Energy – GoElectric Nov 21
Off-peak: 8p/kWh
EDF have more off-peak hours than any EV tariff. The GoElectric tariff is designed to support EV drivers. Even if you don’t have a smart meter you are still entitled to half price off-peak charging. With 100% renewable electricity, you’ll drive with zero carbon emissions, improving local and nationwide air quality.
British Gas – Electric Drivers Nov 2021
Off-peak: 4.7p/kWh
British Gas will install a free smart meter if you haven’t got one already. This EV tariff is one of the cheapest energy deals but only provides 5 hours of off-peak lower priced electricity.
Tonik – Home & Smart EV
Off-peak: 4.17p/kWh
If you want 7 hours of cheap overnight energy, every day, then all you need to do is sign up for a Tonik home tariff. You’ll get your first 8,000 miles for only £80 with the UK’s lowest fixed overnight EV rate.