Benefits, Savings and Incentives Explained

Electric vehicles (EVs) used to be a thing of the future, but now they’re now a real option for many drivers in the UK. In 2021, 2.3% of UK drivers had an EV, but by the end of 2024, this figure rose to 6.2% [1]. Improvements in battery technology, concerns about fossil fuels and government EV schemes mean owning an EV could now be more appealing than ever. But is now the best time to switch to an electric vehicle? Here we go through the benefits, savings and financial incentives.

1. Cost Savings

One of the benefits of owning an EV is the potential for cost savings. While the initial purchase price of an EV can be higher than that of a traditional petrol or diesel vehicle, the long-term savings can be substantial. EVs have lower operating costs due to cheaper electricity compared to fossil fuels. Charging an EV at home, especially during off-peak hours, can save you a considerable amount on fuel costs.

Additionally, EVs can require less maintenance as they usually have fewer moving parts and no need for oil changes. Components like brakes can also last longer due to regenerative braking systems[2].

2. Environmental Benefits

Switching to an EV is an easy way to reduce your carbon footprint. EVs produce zero exhaust emissions, which means they don’t contribute to air pollution from fossil fuels. This can be particularly appealing in cities, where air quality is a major concern.

UK has set a goal to achieve net zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050 in response to global warming and climate change. This means they want to ban the sale of petrol and diesel vehicles by 2030 and have all new cars and vans produce zero emission at the tailpipe by 2035.[3] So driving an EV can contribute to this goal.

Using renewable energy sources and green energy companies to charge your EV can also reduce your lifetime emissions even further.

While there are some concerns about the environmental impact of lithium batteries, EV manufacturers are developing their methods. The aim is to be able to reuse and recycle the lithium-ion batteries in EVs to enhance their environmental sustainability.[4].

3. Performance and Driving Experience

Many drivers find electric vehicles (EVs) more enjoyable to drive than conventional cars for the following reasons:

• The electric motor provides a quieter, almost silent ride.
• The powerful motors can deliver instant acceleration.
• Additionally, the battery’s placement in the car’s floor ensures a low centre of gravity, enhancing stability.
• Regenerative braking can also contribute to the driving experience by converting excess energy into power to recharge the battery when you ease off the accelerator or brake[5].

4. Financial Incentives

• EV’s are exempt from Clean Air Zone charges in certain cities including Bath, Birmingham, Bradford, Bristol, Greater Manchester, Portsmouth, Sheffield and Tyneside[6].
• EV’s are currently exempt from the London Congestion Charge, however this exemption ends December 25^th, 2025. [7]
• Up until 1^st April 2025, registered keeps of electric, zero or low emission cars, vans and motorcycles don’t have to pay any vehicle tax. From this date a sliding scale will then be implemented. [8]
• Government grants towards EV charging points are available until the 31^st March 2025[9].

5. Convenience of Home Charging

One of the most convenient aspects of owning an EV is the ability to charge it at home. No more trips to the petrol station; simply plug in your car overnight and wake up to a fully charged vehicle. Many utilities offer discounted rates for overnight charging, further reducing your costs.[10]

Is Now the Right Time to Switch?

Given the benefits of owning an EV, you might be wondering if now is the right time to make the switch. The EV market is rapidly evolving, with more models available than ever before. Advances in battery technology has increased the mileage of EVs, meaning the fear of running out of power mid journey is greatly reduced. [6].

Charging infrastructure is currently expanding, making it easier than ever to find charging stations on the go. As of January 2025, there were 74,611 EV charging stations across the UK. An increase of 35% on January 2024.

In conclusion, the benefits of owning an EV are clear: cost savings, environmental impact and superior performance features. And remember, here at GoSkippy we offer an EV insurance package that gives you exclusive access to EV benefits powered by Zoom EV.

Still unsure about Electric Vehicles? Check out our blog on the Myths Surrounding Electric Vehicles.

Looking for EV Insurance? Get a quote today with GoSkippy

• If you have one of our EV policies, don’t forget to activate and use your benefits:

As part of your EV car insurance policy with GoSkippy, you get exclusive access to EV Benefits for 12 months from your GoSkippy EV dashboard powered by Zoom EV! This includes EV parking money-saving, access discounts on home energy tariffs and FREE kWhs charging perks.

• If you are approaching renewal and have an EV, or have an additional EV car, take a look at the benefits of our GoSkippy EV tier of insurance.

As part of your EV car insurance policy with GoSkippy, you get exclusive access to EV Benefits for 12 months from your GoSkippy EV dashboard powered by Zoom EV! GoSkippy EV cover is 5* Defaqto rated and our EV cover has all the benefits of our standard policy but also includes:

• Osprey rapid charging, charging credit with Octopus Electroverse and save 68% on BP charging Pulse subscription, the first month free and £15 charging credit on your BP Pulse account. Plus enter prize draws to win free charging and charging credit from your Zoom EV dashboard!
  
  
• Home Energy Credit: Get £25 credit with Octopus Energy when you join Octopus Energy. Quote and switch directly from your Zoom EV dashboard.
  
  
• With an EV you’ll want to park where you can also charge. Access 20% off pre-booked parking with Q Park, when you book through your Zoom EV dashboard.

For full details, read Zoom’s terms and conditions.

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[1] How many EVs are there in the UK – EV market statistics 2024 – Zapmap

[2] The costs of running an electric car | RAC Drive

[3] https://commonslibrary.parliament.uk/research-briefings/cbp-9888/

[4] Are Electric Cars Really Better for the Environment?

[5] Benefits & Advantages of Driving Electric Cars | GoCompare

[6] Clean air zones – GOV.UK

[7] Electric vehicles & charge points – Transport for London

[8] Vehicle tax for electric, zero or low emission vehicles – GOV.UK

[9] Electric vehicle chargepoint grant for renters and flat owners – GOV-UK Find a grant

[10] The Cost of Charging an Electric Car | Compare the Market