The number of people switching to electric cars has rapidly increased in the last year. This is likely to continue given the Scottish government’s target of banning the sale of all new petrol and diesel vehicles by 2032 or even earlier. However many people are still apprehensive about making the switch, particularly because it usually involves installing an EV charging point at home.
What are the main benefits of switching to an electric vehicle (EV)?
- The environmental benefits of moving away from fossil fuels such as petrol and diesel are well known. Reducing carbon emissions and toxic gases is better for the planet and for our health.
- According to the Energy Saving Trust, the running costs are cheaper. Travelling a distance of 100 miles in an EV (electric vehicle) will cost roughly £4-£6 if charging at home. The same distance will cost around£13-£16 for petrol.
- Electric cars are exempt from road tax.
BUT
1. Isn’t it more expensive to buy an electric car?
Yes, unfortunately, new electric cars are still more expensive than traditional petrol ones. However, prices are definitely coming down and the number of new models to choose from has increased. In addition, to offset the higher cost the government has introduced a grant of £3000 off the cost of a new electric car – on cars costing less than £50,000. There has also been a surge in available second-hand electric cars. Leasing an electric car is another popular alternative if buying a new one is too expensive.
2. Isn’t installing an EV charging point at home a hassle and very expensive?
In fact, EV home charger installation has never been easier. EV charging points are usually attached to an exterior wall or garage at your home. The job usually takes a professional installer just one day to complete. There is also currently a grant available under the Electric Vehicle Homecharge Scheme (EVHS) to help towards the cost of installation. However, to access this grant it is essential that you use an EV installer that is accredited by OLEV (Office for Low Emissions). An OLEV installer will have a unique EVHS Installer number (ours is EVHS3241) and you should find them listed on the EVHS authorised installer site.
3. What about my ‘EV range’ anxiety?
EV range anxiety is a very common fear that many people have. It is a fear that their electric vehicle battery will run out of charge before they have reached their destination. Early models of electric cars certainly had this reputation but technology has moved on a lot since then. Now, many light-duty EV’s can cover 200-300 miles on a single charge. If you charge up at home you will only need to top up at public charging stations for very long journeys. Even in this scenario, there is no need to be apprehensive. The charging point network in the UK has grown rapidly in recent years. In fact, there are now more EV charging locations (9,300) than there are petrol stations (8,400) and the number continues to grow.
If you have no experience of owning an electric car the move might still seem a bit daunting. Our advice is to take your time and do your research to find the right EV for your needs. If you do decide to go ahead we would also strongly recommend choosing an accredited EV charger installer for your home charging point installation. They will be able to offer advice on the latest installation grants available and help you with the application process.
Capital City Electrical is an established, trusted electricians in Edinburgh. We are also OZEV accredited EV Charger Installers for customers in Edinburgh and throughout Scotland. Get in touch or give us a call on 0131 235 2608 to find out more about our services.