Pure electric vehicles rely on being powered solely by on-board batteries. Recent advances in battery technology means that the new generation of electric cars are showing ranges of 80 to 100+ miles on a full charge, allowing them to be used for commuting. A full battery charge takes from 6 to 8 hours, although batteries can be recharged to 80% capacity in 30 minutes with high-powered three phase fast chargers.

Advantages

• extremely quiet
• zero emissions when driving
• gearbox free
• easy and fun to drive
• cheap to run
• lower maintenance cost
• tax efficient

Disadvantages

• expensive to buy
• limited range, especially in cold conditions
• poor charging infrastructure
• battery life concerns
• embedded energy used in battery manufacturing
• not really zero emissions
• resale value uncertainty

See cost per mile calculations

Compare the annual running costs of pure battery electric vehicles to conventional diesel and petrol cars.

Grants

As of June 2022, grants for private electric vehicles have disappeared, although you can still apply for help with electric vans, taxis, and motorcycles. The UK Government is now focusing on funding to improve the charging infrastructure. The tax advantages for company car drivers are still in place.