Top 15 Benefits of Electric Cars

Electric vehicles are rising in popularity, but not just because the 2030 deadline is looming. Drivers love the benefits that EVs bring. Plus, with more and more manufacturers adding stylish models to the mix, there’s never been a better time to transition to electric.

If you’re thinking about ditching petrol or diesel for a state-of-the-art electric car, explore the benefits below…

1.Save on Fuel Costs

One of the main reasons why people choose an electric car is the savings on fuel. Compared to filling up at the petrol station, electricity significantly decreases the cost per mile. In addition, charging at home is one of the cheapest ways to top up an electric car. Energy companies typically offer tariffs for EV charging, such as off-peak options.

If you’re considering an EV car and want to work out how much it might cost, calculate using the size of the battery (kWh) x pence per kilowatt-hour from your energy supplier.

Other charge points will cost more to use, such as motorway service station rapid charge points. However, the cost compared to filling up your tank is considerably lower overall.

2.Charge Your Car at Home

You’ll never need to visit a fuel station again (ok, unless it’s to use an EV charge point!). But charging from home takes away the need to queue for fuel. Plus, you can plug it in overnight and it’s ready to go the next day. Another bonus is that more employers are installing EV charge points. So, if you commute to work, there’s the option of topping up while you’re working – sometimes for free!

3.Environmentally Friendly Motoring

The UK took a historic step towards a greener future in 2017 after announcing a ban on new petrol/diesel cars. This boost to the EV sector hopes to reduce carbon emissions dramatically in a bid to minimise the impact on the environment. Electric vehicles don’t produce emissions from the exhaust so this helps to improve air quality and lower carbon emissions overall. 

By buying an electric car, you are making an eco-conscious choice, even on a small scale to reduce your carbon footprint. What’s more, by charging your car with renewable energy, you are taking bigger steps towards greener motoring.

4.Lower Maintenance Costs

Unlike petrol or diesel cars, EVs have fewer moving parts and, of course, no engine to maintain. Electric cars will still need an MOT after three years. However, the general cost of maintaining and servicing is said to be around half that of a combustion-powered vehicle.

The areas generally covered by servicing include ensuring the battery and drivetrain are working correctly. Charging cables may be checked and replaced if needed. Battery charge time is another checking point as, just like other batteries, they deteriorate over time.

5.Easy to Drive

The beauty of an electric car is that all models are very similar to automatic vehicles. There are no gears to worry about, and you have instant torque at the pedal. These cars are ideal for inexperienced drivers as it gives you time to concentrate on road awareness and motor control. They are also perfect for drivers who cover many miles, as the driving experience is simple and hassle-free.

Alongside the smooth and comfortable ride, the onboard driver assistance features, such as cruise control, make light work of speed control.

6.Fun to Drive

Electric cars previously had a stereotype of a boring design and driveability. However, recent models have put that misconception straight in the bin. Car manufacturers have showcased a range of stylish and powerful EVs that give petrol and diesel models a run for their money.

These models have instant torque and incredible acceleration. Plus, you only have to check out brands such as Tesla and Porsche to admire the capabilities on offer. Tesla even has a ‘ludicrous’ mode to experience the power in full force.

7.Health Benefits

As mentioned above, electric cars don’t have emissions at the tailpipe. This isn’t just great for the environment - it’s also great for your health. Combustion powered vehicles produce toxic emissions that lead to air pollution, which contributes to health conditions such as respiratory illness.  

Some cities have introduced measures to reduce air pollution, such as London’s Ultra Low and Low Emission Zones. However, the increase in electric vehicles will improve air quality UK-wide.

8.EV Grants

If you’re switching to electric, the government offers numerous grants to make it more affordable. The main grant for help towards purchasing an electric vehicle gives a discount on the price of a new car. This is applied directly through manufacturers or dealerships.

Check out the range of options and eligible vehicles.

9.More Electric Vehicles to Choose From

A decade ago, electric vehicles were the new kid on the block, and models were considerably more expensive than their petrol/diesel counterparts. However, today, car manufacturers are investing in numerous models to bring more choices at lower prices.

The variety of vehicles on offer doesn’t just limit you to compact city cars either. Larger models from brands such as Volvo, BMW and Mercedes Benz have SUVs and saloons perfect for comfortable family motoring. As the 2030 deadline creeps up, we’ll see even more choices on the market with options for all budgets.

10.Safety Features

There’s nothing more important in car manufacturing than ensuring drivers are safe behind the wheel. With innovations in electric car design, most models have state-of-the-art safety systems and driver assistance features to support safe driving. Some of the top safety features include:

• Lane-keep assist
• Traction control
• Driver attention warning
• Airbags
• Blindspot collision warning

11.Less Noise Pollution

Most people are used to the sounds a conventional car makes especially noisier diesel engines. So fortunately, with less moving parts and no clunky engine, the sound of an electric car is significantly quieter.

When electric cars first came onto the market, they were practically silent. However, in 2019, the EU introduced a law that manufacturers must install a sound generator system on new electric and hybrid cars.

This law specifies a noise level when the car is reversing or travelling below 12mph. While this does create some noise, it is not on the same level as a conventional car.

12.Zero Road Tax

Road tax or Vehicle Excise Duty (VED) is a cost every driver must pay if a vehicle produces emissions. So, if you drive an electric car, you don’t have to worry about this extra cost. EVs are exempt from paying road tax currently. Plus, you have the additional benefit of driving through Clean Air Zones without incurring congestion charges.

13.Benefit in Kind (BiK) Savings

If you’re considering leasing a car as a company vehicle, Benefit in Kind (BiK) tax rates apply. However, if you choose an electric car, you’ll benefit from lower BiK rates. In some cases, you can also get 100% VAT back depending on eligibility.

14.Free or Dedicated Parking Spots

There are many benefits of leasing an electric car, plus a few added perks to make the ride sweeter. These include free or dedicated parking spots.

You’ll probably have noticed specific parking for electric cars at your local supermarket or when you pop into town. This dedicated parking is handy if you need a top-up. Plus, some charge points offer free charging while you shop.

15.Improved Resale Opportunities

In addition, second-hand electric cars are an affordable option if you’re thinking about moving to electric. The market is also improving in resale opportunities if you want to sell privately.  

Affordable Cars at Leasing Options

The electric market has plenty of models to fit your lifestyle, and it’s never been a better time to make the switch. A great way to try out the best cars is leasing.

Leasing an electric car provides all the benefits of driving a stylish and innovative model at an affordable monthly cost. Plus, you can choose another fantastic EV once your contract is up.

At Leasing Options, we have a wide range of electric car leasing deals for all budgets. Choose from compact city runarounds to luxury SUVs from top car manufacturers including Nissan, Volkswagen, Vauxhall and Toyota, plus many more.

You can also compare models on range capabilities, monthly cost and trim features to get the best electric vehicle for your needs. For more information, check out our EV lease deals.

Want to Learn More?

Read a comparison of Electric vs Petrol Cars, our Electric Car Charging Connector Guide or a low down on Electric Vehicle Ownership. We also have a Beginner’s Guide to Electric Cars if you want to delve deeper into the different types of EVs. 

If you need any additional information on leasing deals and costs, contact our team on 0161 826 9716 or email info@leasingoptions.co.uk.