*Collaborative post
If you’ve made the call to go electric, choosing your first EV can be tricky. Along with all the usual priorities like size, shape and style, you’ve probably got a few questions on how to pick the right specifications for you.
From sleek saloon cars to powerful SUVs with jaw-dropping torque, there’s a huge selection. In this guide, we’ve offered a few pointers to help you choose an electric car that looks great, feels even better to drive, and helps to save you money on everyday motoring.
4 steps to choosing your first electric car
- Decide what’s best for you
Browse the selection of electric cars on the market near you. With eight in ten new cars set to be emissions-free by 2030, it’s highly likely that your local garage already offers several new electric car models alongside their diesel and petrol offerings.
In the process, you’ll need to be realistic and ask yourself a few important questions. Think about your budget, first and foremost, since this could influence your choice drastically and even discount some brands entirely. Or, if you’re looking for a low-emissions vehicle but you’re not ready to commit to all-electric, a hybrid car could be more suitable.
- Consider charging points
Think about how often you’ll need to use your new car. If you need to commute in your car every day, we strongly recommend making sure that you can access a charging point quickly and easily.
If you own a property or rent privately, you could apply for an electric vehicle charge point grant and get £350 or 75% off the cost of the charging socket and its installation. However, if your property is unsuitable for a charging point or the infrastructure isn’t available yet, you’ll need to make sure that you can charge your new EV nearby – either at work or local facilities.
- Understand the commitment
You should think carefully about your needs and how much you’re willing to spend. Then, you can set a realistic budget that includes long-term costs and servicing.
While electric cars might not demand as much time or money when it comes to maintenance, you’ll still need to meet essential servicing needs. Electric cars are cheaper to service, and their batteries should last at least 10 years. The tyres are the only component that needs replacing frequently, but it’s easy to buy tyres online at great prices and find EV-specific designs.
- Do your research
Finally, an electric car is never going to be a cheap purchase. However, try to focus on the long-term savings and enjoyment rather than the huge upfront cost. It’s worth knowing what you’re looking for and the type of features you’d usually expect to enjoy.
The selection of EVs on the market in the UK is already vast: alongside superminis and city dwellers like the Fiat 500e, you’ve got mid-range hatchbacks like the Volkswagen e-Golf. Or, if you’re pushing for something a little bit luxurious, high-end options like the Porsche Taycan could suit. You’ll need to embrace the technology too, since many EVs come with dedicated apps.
No matter which model you go for, going electric is guaranteed to reduce your carbon footprint, save you money, and make a better choice for the planet.