Full charge The costs and savings for EV motorists

Urban car owner who drives occasionally Drivers of urban electric vehicles could save straight away if they regularly drive through emission charging zones, such as London’s ultra-low emission zone (Ulez). It is likely more towns and cities will bring in zones in the coming years. Electric vehicles are exempt from paying any Ulez or congestion charges, potentially saving motorists up to £24 a day. However, people living in urban areas are less likely to have a driveway and may need to rely on lamppost chargers, or on trailing a cable from their home to a car parked on the street. Charge points at supermarkets and service stations offer an alternative and, while more expensive than charging at home, are still cheaper than petrol or diesel.

Rural commuter who uses the car every day

Drivers in this category would be able to rely on home charge points, though they can cost up to £1,000 up front, according to EDF, the energy firm. Grants from the Office for Low

Emission Vehicles can reduce the cost by up to £350. Charging from home will also inevitably lead to an increase in energy bills. According to Pod Point, the charge point provider, a full charge costs about £8.40, though this will vary depending on the vehicle type and energy tariff. Switching to a cheaper tariff, or one that is designed with electric vehicle charging in mind, could reduce the cost.

A long-distance salesman who drives for work Drivers who regularly travel long distances for work will most likely rely on overnight charging at home, though this may not always be available. Those who often stay overnight in hotels in different parts of the country may have to rely on charging points at supermarkets or motorway service stations. According to EDF, Pod Point rapid chargers at supermarkets cost around 24p per kwh, which equates to £6-7 for 30 minutes of charging, or roughly 100 miles of range depending on the vehicle.