As we emerge into a world of electric mobility, you may not be aware that the UK Government has incentives to support all manufacturers in selling their brand new low-emission vehicles. Cars, motorcycles, mopeds, small vans, large vans, taxis and trucks are all eligible, however within each category there are different criteria. Visit the UK Government's website for further updates.
To be eligible for a grant, the chosen brand car must cost less than £35,000 (this is the Recommended Retail Price (RRP) and includes VAT And delivery costs). With this, the current grant on an electric car is set to pay 35% of the purchase price, up to a maximum of £2,500.
This has been live and actionable from the Government since April 2021, with a former structure offering £3,000 against the purchase of a vehicle with a value of £40,000. Right now there is no indication that the current criteria will change, and with the UK Government's recent Net Zero strategy announcement including funding of £620m to support both vehicle grants and EV infrastructure, you should take advantage of the grant now, if the vehicle is sufficient for you and your mobility needs.
Moving to electric will require a huge consideration of all the pros and cons. One of the challenges is the cost, and with the support of the grant, we’ve pulled together our guide to what we consider to be the best cars that currently benefit from this £2,500 grant support.
Volkswagen
The ID range is well and truly here. With two models on the road already, the ID.3 and the ID.4, both continue to be our, and the UK’s, staple cars of the future. Three of the ID.3 models, and one of the ID.4's meet the Government's criteria to reach the discounted rate, as well as the Volkswagen Up! All models offer around 150 miles per charge, up to 250 miles per charge.
Skoda
The first EV in the Skoda range, the Enyaq, has absolutely shot out in front. A combination of being both practical and nippy, the 62kwh Skoda Enyaq in both the Loft and Lodge trims meet the criteria, offering up to 256 miles per charge.
Renault
Since 2012, the Zoe has been a staple within the EV space. Now with a new generation, it offers close to 250 miles of range per charge, and all Zoe specs are eligible for the grant.
Kia
What feels like another staple in the electric space, is the Kia e-Niro. A practical model, which offers a great discount on the level 2 and level 3.
Nissan
A car big enough for the family with a brand new design launched last year, the new Leaf is a direct competitor of the Volkswagen ID.3 and the Renault Zoe. All models within the range do meet the criteria for the Government grant.
Mini
Offering the same feel as the globally recognised Mini Cooper, the 3dr Mini Electric offers 130 miles of electric range. With all three Levels eligible for the Government grant, it’s time to design your ideal Mini EV!
Fiat 500
The iconic Italian model has been completely remodelled into an EV. Starting at just £23,500, and offering you around 199 miles per charge, this is one worth considering.
Summary
Our ultimate goal at Pike + Bambridge is to provide a simple, easy and enjoyable process when it comes to acquiring your new car, and we hope we've shared the “sweet spot” for when you might be moving to electric. The £2,500 grant towards your new EV can often make the decision between staying with a combustion engine, and/or making a greener move.
