What to consider before switching to an electric vehicle

Electric vehicles (EVs) are rapidly growing in popularity, with more than 1,550,000 fully electric cars on the road in the UK, which is almost 5% of the total vehicles on the road*. With lower running costs and reduced emissions appealing to many new and current drivers, it’s worth exploring what the switch would mean for you, especially if sustainability, savings and convenience are priorities.

Image is of a row of terraced homes at Heritage Grange with EV chargers

What you need to know before switching

Charging
Charging your car is something that you need to think about before anything. Do you have off-street parking or access to a dedicated charging point at home? If not, you could explore local public charging networks or, like many homeowners, install a home charging point. Remember, you will need to pay for the EV charger and installation, so shop around for the best quote in your area.

Running Costs
Many EVs now comfortably manage daily journeys on a single charge, with lower maintenance costs thanks to fewer moving parts. Comparing electricity prices and running expenses versus petrol or diesel is worthwhile, as over time, switching to electric can offer both cost savings and a smaller carbon footprint.
There may even be some incentives available, such as discounts on charging units or cheaper energy tariffs for EV owners, which can help you make the transition.

Lifestyle
Lastly, think about whether an electric car fits your lifestyle. For shorter commutes or errand runs around town, EVs are ideal. If you often travel longer distances, a bit more planning is needed to ensure you are able to get where you need to go.

Ultimately, switching to an electric car is a positive step for the environment and your pocket, but it’s important to choose what works for you.