Electric Vehicle FAQs

How much does charging an Electric Vehicle (EV) cost and where can I charge it?

The cost of charging an EV is different depending on if you are charging at home, work or public charging.

  • Charging at home: Depending on your charger, this will cost around £3.64 for a full charge.
  • Charging at work: Some employers install workplace charging points and may even offer free access for employees.
  • Charging at public stations: Public charging points at supermarkets or car parks are often free to use for the duration of your stay.
  • Rapid charging stations: Rapid charging points are found at motorway service stations and typically cost £6.50 for a 30-minute charge.

How can I charge my EV at home?

You can purchase a home charging point to charge your EV at home. The government offers an OLEV Grant for those customers who purchase an eligible electric or plug-in hybrid vehicle from 1st October onwards. This grant entitles you for a grant of up to £500 to purchase and install a home charger.

Having a home charging point means:

  • You can charge your vehicle overnight, meaning you can take advantage of the cheap night-time electricity rates and drive for as little as 2p per mile.
  • Overnight charging also ensures that the car’s battery is full each morning.

Make sure you select the charging point that is compatible with your car; there are Type 1 and Type 2 plug points.

Are there many public charging stations?

There are free websites and downloadable apps such as Zap Map that can locate the nearest charging station to you.

Will an EV last for the length of a long journey?

The median range for electric vehicles is continually increasing, with most electric vehicles now being able to make 114 miles on one full charge. Some vehicles are even able to reach as many as 335 miles.

Are EVs more expensive than Petrol or Diesel Vehicles?

Although electric vehicles may tend to be more expensive than some new Petrol or Diesel Vehicles, there are many other factors that bring the overall cost down.

  • The OLEV Grant entitles most* Electric Car owners to a grant of up to £3,500 towards their EV.
  • A full charge in an EV will give a typical range of 100 miles and will cost £2 to £4 depending on battery size. Driving 100 miles in a petrol or diesel car will cost around £13 to £16 in fuel, which is around four times the cost of the electric car.
  • There are fewer mechanical components in an electric vehicle when compared with conventional vehicles, which often results in lower servicing and maintenance costs.
  • EV drivers do not have to pay the London Congestion Charge and also benefit from free parking in many Pay & Display spots.

*not all EV models qualify for the grant, to find out what specific models the grant is applicable for, click here.​

How quickly does an EV charge?

  • For an EV using a standard UK home socket, a full charge would take between 6-8 hours.
  • Rapid charging points are also available in public areas such as service stations and can top up the battery to an 80% capacity in around 30 minutes.

Are EVs as reliable and practical as standard vehicles?

  • Electric cars can work in all kinds of weather including snow and blazing heat. A helpful tip is to make sure that in sub-zero temperatures you are still plugging in and charging your EV, otherwise it could get damaged.
  • With models such as the Nissan LEAF offering room for five passengers and a spacious boot, EVs are growing to become even more viable as an alternative to petrol and diesel vehicles.

Are EVs as safe as Petrol and Diesel Vehicles?

  • EVs are just as safe as Petrol and Diesel models.
  • Many EVs, including the Nissan LEAF have been awarded top five-star Euro NCAP Ratings.

What is the difference between a Hybrid and an EV?

  • Plug In Hybrids (PHEV) have a larger battery that you can charge using mains electricity, meaning you can drive further at higher speeds on pure electric power before the engine starts.
  • There is also the Extended Range of Electric Vehicles (E-REV), such as the Vauxhall Ampera, which can go further on electric only power, before the engine kicks in.
  • Then there are pure Electric Vehicles, such as the Renault Zoe Dynamique and the Nissan LEAF, which rely solely on charging.

 

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Transport For London

Cars need to meet minimum emission standards when travelling in the Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ) or the daily charge must be paid.

Minimum emission standards

Petrol: Euro 4
Diesel: Euro 6

The ULEZ will be enforced based on the declared emissions of the vehicle rather than the age. However:

Information from Transport For London

Check this car on the TFL website before purchasing: https://tfl.gov.uk/modes/driving/check-your-vehicle/

All our vehicles are subject to an Admin Fee. Our Admin Fee covers any additional administration needed during your transaction, including a thorough provenance check (HPI Check). The admin fee also includes the cost to fully valet, register and, if necessary, MOT your vehicle (if less than 6 months left of current MOT).

Our administration fee is a variable fee which covers the additional administration needed when transacting with different categories of customers as specified. Retail Customers £199.00 - (Private buyers - NOT an owner, partner or director of a new/used vehicle sales company). Retail Customers using a finance broker outside our official panel of lenders paying funds direct to Wilsons Epsom - £399.00. All fees are inclusive of VAT.