Guide To Electric Cars In 2015

The Rise of Electric Vehicles in the UK: A Growing Trend

In recent years, the UK has witnessed a dramatic increase in the number of electric cars on its roads. From a modest 3,500 electric vehicles (EVs) in 2013, the number soared to nearly 40,000 by 2015. This significant rise in EV adoption highlights a fundamental shift in both consumer attitudes and the automotive market, driven by several key factors that are shaping the future of transportation in the country.

Factors Driving the Increase in Electric Car Adoption

The rapid growth of electric vehicle ownership in the UK can be attributed to a variety of interrelated factors. First and foremost, there has been a noticeable change in public perception towards electric vehicles. As awareness about climate change and the environmental impact of fossil fuel consumption has increased, more consumers are choosing to make the switch to cleaner, greener options.

In addition, the UK’s infrastructure has seen significant improvements in terms of the availability of recharging stations. The expansion of public recharging points has made owning an electric vehicle much more practical, as drivers now have better access to convenient charging options. This improvement in infrastructure, coupled with the increased availability of different types of electric vehicles on the market, has made EVs a more attractive choice for consumers.

Considerations Before Making the Switch to an Electric Vehicle

While the rise of electric vehicles offers an exciting opportunity for many, there are a few practical considerations to keep in mind before fully committing to owning one. For instance, it’s important to take your daily driving habits into account. Currently, most electric cars are best suited for journeys of up to 100 miles per day. This is largely due to their range limitations, which, although improving, may not be sufficient for those with long daily commutes or who frequently travel long distances.

When choosing an electric vehicle, it’s also advisable to consider the type of journey you typically make. For example, electric cars are ideal for daily trips on familiar routes where potential traffic hazards or detours can be anticipated. Additionally, having access to a reliable means of recharging the car is crucial. Most electric vehicle owners benefit from off-street parking with the ability to recharge their vehicles overnight, ensuring the car is fully charged and ready for the next day.

Recharging Infrastructure: A Key Element

If off-street parking is not available, however, the government has implemented a scheme that enables householders to apply for public on-street charging points in their local area. This initiative, aimed at supporting electric vehicle owners without access to private parking spaces, helps to address one of the biggest challenges of electric vehicle ownership—ensuring convenient access to charging facilities.

Cost Considerations: Price, Incentives, and Savings

While the benefits of electric vehicles are clear, it’s important to acknowledge that they come with a higher upfront cost compared to traditional petrol or diesel-powered cars. At the time of writing in 2015, electric cars were generally more expensive than their internal combustion engine (ICE) counterparts. However, there are financial incentives available to make the transition more affordable.

In 2011, the UK government introduced a grant scheme to help reduce the cost of purchasing electric vehicles. Under this scheme, eligible vehicles could receive a subsidy of up to 25% off the purchase price, with a maximum grant of £5,000 for cars and £8,000 for vans. The grant is applied at the point of sale, with the dealer handling all the necessary paperwork, ensuring a seamless process for the buyer.

Long-Term Savings: Electricity vs. Petrol and Diesel

Despite the higher initial cost, electric vehicles offer significant long-term savings. For example, the cost of charging an electric vehicle is far cheaper than refueling a petrol or diesel vehicle. Drivers can save around £700 or more annually on a mileage of 10,000 miles, thanks to the much lower cost of electricity. Additionally, electric vehicles are exempt from car tax, which can save around £145 a year. These savings, combined with the environmental benefits, make electric vehicles an increasingly attractive option for consumers.

EV Chargers

As the adoption of electric vehicles continued to rise, the demand for EV chargers is expected to increase significantly. With more people making the switch to electric vehicles, the need for a robust and accessible network of charging stations became critical. Public charging points, along with home charging solutions, were predicted to become increasingly commonplace, making it easier and more convenient for drivers to keep their vehicles powered up. As electric vehicle sales grew, so too would the infrastructure supporting them, leading to widespread availability of EV chargers and contributing to the overall mainstream acceptance of electric vehicles in the years to come.

Conclusion: The Future of Electric Vehicles in the UK

The rise in electric vehicles in the UK represents a promising shift towards a more sustainable and eco-friendly future for transportation. While there are still challenges to overcome, such as cost and range limitations, the advantages of electric vehicles are clear. With government incentives, improvements in infrastructure, and growing consumer awareness, electric vehicles are poised to become a mainstream option for drivers across the country. As the technology continues to evolve, we can expect even more benefits, making the transition to electric vehicles an exciting prospect for both the environment and the economy.