Electric vehicles (EVs) are becoming more mainstream in the UK, thanks to advances in technology, improved infrastructure, and growing environmental awareness. But the question still remains: How much does it cost to run an electric car?
While EVs often have a higher purchase price than petrol or diesel cars, their lower running costs can make them a more economical option over time.
Here's a breakdown of the key cost considerations for running an electric car in 2025.
The average price of an electric car in the UK remains higher than that of a petrol or diesel car.
While this upfront cost can seem expensive, the lower running costs help to make EVs cost-effective over their lifetime.
If the upfront cost is a concern, leasing options can help to reduce the initial outlay.
The cost of charging an electric car depends on where and when you charge. Below is a snapshot of costs for 2025:
Charging at home is the most cost-effective option, typically costing between 2p and 8p per mile, depending on your tariff. In comparison, a petrol car costs between 12p and 21p per mile to run.
You can further reduce your home charging costs by:
It’s worth noting that the Electric Vehicle Homecharge Scheme offers a £350 grant to help with home charger installation for eligible renters, flat owners, and those with on-street parking. A grant is also available towards the cost of installing charge points at workplaces.
If you're buying or leasing a new electric car, you may find that home charging installation is heavily discounted or even included in the cost of the car.
Public chargers, found at motorway services, petrol stations, and car parks, are more expensive than home charging, costing between 15p and 23p per mile.
While faster chargers cost more, they’re essential for long-distance travel and convenience.
An electric car battery is one of the most expensive components of an EV.
Designed to last between 10 and 20 years, a new lithium-ion electric car battery in 2025 can cost between £5,000 and £9,000, depending on size.
Battery technology is improving rapidly, and prices are expected to fall further due to advances in chemistry, recycling, and demand.
The UK government offers a range of electric car tax incentives and grants, which include:
From April 2025, EVs will no longer be exempt from Vehicle Excise Duty (road tax). New and existing electric vehicles will pay a nominal £10 in the first year, then the standard annual rate thereafter.
Estimates state that insuring an electric vehicle can be 10–20% higher than a petrol equivalent.
However, as with petrol and diesel cars, electric car insurance costs in the UK depend on the vehicle’s price and power, and the driver’s age and experience. Costs can vary depending on the parts and repair costs of EVs with more complex electric systems, so it’s worth comparing insurance quotes before choosing a particular make and model.
Servicing an electric car is generally less expensive than servicing a petrol or diesel vehicle. This is largely because EVs have fewer moving parts, no oil systems, spark plugs, or exhausts, which reduces the number of items that require regular inspection or replacement.
With no internal combustion engine, clutch, gearbox, or exhaust system, there are fewer components that can go wrong, making maintenance of EVs both easier and cheaper.
In general, the total lifetime maintenance costs of an EV are lower than those of petrol or diesel vehicles, which is one of the biggest financial benefits of switching to electric.
Historically, concern over battery degradation in electric cars made EVs lose value faster. However, with the advancement of batteries, the market has stabilised and electric cars now tend to hold their value as well as petrol cars.
Foray Motor Group specialises in Ford electric vehicles, offering a wide range of EVs for private and commercial customers. Our team is on hand to guide you through the costs of owning an EV and arrange a test drive. Contact us today!
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