Introduction
Thinking about making the switch to an electric vehicle? Let’s break down the real costs—clearly, simply, and with real-world numbers.
Thinking about making the switch to an electric vehicle?
Let’s break down the real costs—clearly, simply, and with real-world numbers.
Charging Options and Costs
Where you charge has the biggest impact on cost.
- Home Charging
- Cheapest long-term option
- Costs 7p–30p per kWh depending on tariff
- Full charge (60kWh EV): £4.50–£18
- Smart EV tariffs (like Octopus Go) can drop this under £10
- Workplace Charging
- Many employers offer free or subsidised charging
- Often powered by solar or low-rate electricity
- Typical workplace rate: 10p–20p per kWh
- Some offer flat monthly fees (e.g., £20 for unlimited charging)
Workplace charging can be a major cost-saver if it’s available.
Do you park at the office all day? Use that time to charge for less—or even free.
- Public Charging
- Rapid chargers cost 55p–79p per kWh
- £30–£45 per full charge
- Great for long trips, but costly as a main source
Cost Comparison by Charging Location (60kWh EV)
| Charging Type | Typical Cost per Full Charge | Cost per Mile (200-mile range) |
| Home (smart tariff) | £4.50 | 2.25p |
| Workplace (subsidised) | £6–£12 | 3p–6p |
| Public (rapid) | £35 | 17.5p |
Charging mostly at work or home? You cut running costs by over 70% compared to public charging.
Total 5-Year Cost Comparison
| Cost Area | EV (Home + Workplace) | EV (Public) | Petrol Car |
| Fuel | £500/year | £1,400/year | £1,500+/year |
| Maintenance | £300/year | £300/year | £600/year |
| Road Tax | £0 | £0 | £165/year |
| Insurance | £700/year | £700/year | £600/year |
| Charger (home) | One-off £1,000 | £0 | £0 |
Over 5 years:
- EV with home/workplace charging saves over £4,000
- EV with public charging saves only about £1,000
Do you have access to workplace charging? If yes, you can reduce your EV running costs dramatically.
Real Example: Office Commuter
Emma drives 25 miles each way to her office in Manchester.
- Charges 4 days a week at work (10p/kWh)
- Tops up at home on weekends (Octopus Go: 7.5p/kWh)
- Monthly charging cost: £22–£25
- Previous petrol cost: £110/month
Her savings? Over £1,000 per year.
Why Workplace Charging Matters
- Reliable daytime charging
- Removes the need for home charger for some drivers
- Makes EV ownership easier for apartment dwellers
If your employer doesn’t offer it, ask them. EV charger grants are available to businesses.
Final Tips
- Mix home and work charging for best value
- Avoid relying on public rapid chargers
- Choose a smart home charger to cut costs
- Compare insurance quotes tailored to EVs
Still wondering if an EV is worth it?
Check where you charge. That’s where the real savings are.
Future-proof your commute. Install the right EV charger at work or at home.
