True cost of owning an electric car in the UK (2026)
Electric cars cost less to fuel but more to insure and depreciate faster than most petrol equivalents. With EVs now paying VED from April 2025, the picture has shifted again — this calculator gives you the honest 2026 number.
Frequently asked questions
How much does it cost to charge an electric car at home?
On a typical UK tariff at 28p/kWh, a 60kWh EV costs around £17 for a full charge — roughly 4–5p per mile. Overnight EV-only tariffs can cut this to under 2p/mile.
What about public rapid charging?
Rapid chargers in motorway service areas now charge 65–85p/kWh, which works out at around 18–25p per mile — comparable to or higher than petrol on long trips.
Do EVs really need less servicing?
Yes — no oil changes, no spark plugs, no exhaust system. Annual servicing is typically £150–£300, but tyres wear faster due to extra weight and instant torque.
Are there still government grants for EVs?
The plug-in car grant ended in 2022 for new cars but the chargepoint grant for renters and flat-owners remains. Check gov.uk for the latest schemes.