The UK grants for electric cars are always changing. Find out about the latest changes in our live-updating guide here.
In this guide…
The UK’s attitude towards introducing people to electric cars seems to have changed. As countries like France and Germany set substantial incentives for electric vehicles (EVs) with grants up to €10,000 (£8,500) and €9,000 (£7,700) respectively, the UK’s approach seems to have lagged behind since the cessation of its original EV grant scheme in the summer of 2022. However, the landscape of electric car grants in the UK isn’t barren. There are other grants concerning electric cars available, including a charge point scheme that could cut your fuel costs by over £700 per year if you go from petrol to electric.
What Electric Car Grants are Available in the UK in 2024?
The justification provided was the significant uptick in EV registrations and the narrowing price gap between electric vehicles and their petrol or diesel counterparts. In short, the government felt that the grant had served its purpose, but there are still many who are looking to make the switch. Although direct government subsidies have dwindled, the shift has paved the way for alternative incentives.
What Other Options Are There to Save Money on EVs?
With the official grant scheme a thing of the past, the spotlight turns to private enterprises stepping up to encourage EV adoption. For instance, in 2023, Fiat introduced the Fiat E-Grant, offering £3,000 off the new Fiat 500e and 500e Convertible models. Such initiatives underscore the evolving nature of market-driven support for electric vehicles, often leading to competitive benefits for drivers.
Current Status of the Electric Vehicle Homecharge Scheme (EVHS)
The Electric Vehicle Homecharge Scheme, now rebranded as the EV Charge Point Grant, has expanded its reach. Originally exclusive to homeowners, the revamped grant now extends to tenants and flat owners, reflecting a broader commitment to accessible electric vehicle infrastructure. The convenience of home charging stations can’t be overstated—they allow for overnight charging and provide the most straightforward way to manage an EV’s power needs.
Eligible participants could see up to 75% of the installation costs of a smart charge point covered, with a cap of £350 for those with dedicated off-street parking. The process is streamlined, with installers claiming the government subsidy directly, leaving consumers to pay only the discounted rate. The financial benefits include savings of around £447 annually compared to public charging costs.
Qualifying for the EV Charge Point Grant requires:
- Ownership or tenancy in a flat with dedicated off-street parking
- Installation plans for an EV charger for one of the 254 vehicles listed as eligible
- Being the primary owner of the vehicle
- Proof of vehicle eligibility, either already owned or to be delivered within four months of the charge point installation
- While the direct government grants for purchasing electric vehicles have been phased out, the continued support for infrastructure, like home charging, indicates a strategic pivot towards sustainable vehicle ownership. Understanding these changes and the available options can significantly ease the financial burden and enhance the practicality of owning and operating an electric vehicle in the UK.
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