Electric vehicles (EVs) are popping up on UK roads more and more, with the likes of Tesla and Polestar leading the way, while other traditional petrol- or diesel-powered brands like Volkswagen and Renault following suit. With their increasing popularity, you would think it would be obvious the pros of buying an electric car in 2025 outweigh the cons. However, each driver is unique, and some might not have a full understanding of what owning and driving an EV entails.
We’re going to cover both the pros and cons of buying and driving an electric vehicle in 2025, helping you make an informed decision.
5 Pros of Buying an Electric Car in 2025
1. Lower Running Costs
Compared to a car with an internal combustion engine (ICE), EVs have far fewer moving parts under the bonnet. This means maintenance, like the driving experience, is like a gentle breeze as the risk of parts breaking is significantly lower with an EV.
But what about fuel, or in this case, charging costs? Fuel costs in the UK have recently skyrocketed, and while they’ve slowly crept down in price a little bit, the population can all agree petrol and diesel are costing more than they should. With an EV, you can save on fuel and benefit from reasonable charging costs. There are many electricity tariffs for EV owners which can help you save further, as well as choosing to charge at public points during off-peak hours for cheaper charging rates.
2. Environmental Benefits
The UK is looking to reach net-zero by 2050, and while that’s still 25 years away, EVs are helping the nation reach this goal sooner. Traditional ICE vehicles produce direct tailpipe emissions, whereas electric vehicles (stating the obvious here) emit zero direct emissions.
People are often concerned about what happens to the batteries after their life cycle – there are many battery recycling initiatives in place to minimise as much harm to the environment as possible. While EVs aren’t completely emission-free, the difference between these and an ICE car is staggering.
3. Government Incentives & Tax Benefits
Come April 2025, EV drivers will have to start paying road tax. Fortunately, you can still receive numerous tax benefits through government incentives if you plan on purchasing an electric vehicle. These include:
- The EV Plug-in Grant: Dealerships will include a discount on the final price under the EV Plug-in Grant scheme, where you can purchase an electric vehicle for less.
- Home Charging Grants: The EV Chargepoint Grant provides up to £350 off the cost of installing a home charging point for renters and flat owners, helping reduce the upfront cost of home charging infrastructure.
- Local Council Incentives: Some local councils will offer free or discounted parking, congestion charge exemptions and other beneficial incentives for EV owners, making day-to-day running costs even more affordable.
4. Advancements in EV Technology
Even in just the last few years, the technology surrounding EVs and the charging infrastructure has boomed. There is now a higher amount of readily available charging infrastructure throughout the UK, with both the government and private companies expanding charging networks. Businesses are integrating EV charge points on their premises, which come with many financial benefits for both employees and employers.
Advancements in battery range for newer EV models are granting more mileage per charge, with many 2025 EVs able to travel over 300 miles on a single charge. Plus, you won’t have to wait as long to get fully charged, as some electric vehicles can gain 80% charge in under 20 minutes – a real advantage for those who frequently travel long distances.
Also, if you’re someone who loves gadgets and gizmos in your vehicle, many of the top car brands feature more tech than Bond and Batman combined!
5. Improved Driving Experience
Many who have bought an electric car often say their driving experience is like no other. Smooth, responsive, seamless, quiet and quick; are the most popular adjectives EV drivers use to describe their driving experience. Those looking for an easy driving experience can rely on an electric vehicle, as like automatic ICE vehicles, they only have two pedals – the accelerator and brake.
They also have what’s called a regenerative braking system, which recovers energy when letting the vehicle slow on its own rather than pressing the brake pedal.
For the speed enthusiasts out there, many EVs can reach 0-60mph in less than two seconds, and while we’re not promoting speeding, those in a hurry will not worry about accelerating to their destination.
5 Cons of Buying an Electric Car in 2025
1. Higher Upfront Cost
Electric cars will typically have a high upfront cost compared to ICE vehicles. Despite falling battery costs and government incentives, it’s important to consider you will require a large upfront payment. On the cheaper end of the scale, the average price is around £15,000 with the more premium, high-end models pushing £30,000+. Combine this with insurance and the cost to install home charging stations, you’re looking at a sizeable sum taken from your wallet.
Alternatively, leasing an electric vehicle is a solution many have found to be much more affordable and flexible than outright buying.
2. Charging Challenges
Home charging for EVs is highly recommended, but not everyone has access to a driveway or private parking, or the finances to install, even with government help after purchasing the vehicle. While public charging stations and infrastructure are improving in the UK, finding available stations in busy areas still remains a challenge.
3. Battery Life Concerns
Even though the battery life of EVs is continuing to get better, many potential buyers’ main concern is still running out of charge. Most new electric vehicles come with an 8-year warranty on the battery, but over time they will lose efficiency, reducing driving range and raising the need for replacement. But this is the same for petrol and diesel vehicles, as their batteries too will deplete over time.
4. Limited Model Options in Some Segments
Buyers are still limited to certain electric vehicle types, as affordable EVs for city driving are still scarce, and the UK still doesn’t have certain EV models on the road or have limited availability. Also, EV vans and high-performance sports cars don’t have the range of choice traditional petrol models do.
Some models, like the Tesla Model X SUV, are only available with limited features and left-hand drive. If you are after specific features or a distinct model, you might be left disappointed with the options available.
5. Resale Value & Depreciation
While EVs have depreciation in common with ICE vehicles, the rate at which they depreciate is much faster. This is due to rapidly evolving battery technology, which can leave older models reselling for much less. Your new 2025 electric vehicle might cost a pretty penny, but in a few years, if you’re looking to sell, you’ll likely not receive a positive return on investment. Consider how long you plan to have your EV and whether you’re willing to take a loss in this regard.
Leasing an EV turns this con on its head and allows you to not worry about selling or depreciation, as you can upgrade to the latest model at the end of your lease contract.
Key Considerations Before Making a Decision
To make your final decision, ask yourself these questions:
- What kind of driving experience do you want?
- Do you have the finances for the car and a home charging point?
- Do you live near available public charging stations?
- Does your job provide any incentives?
- Is the model you’re after available in the UK?
- Would your budget benefit from leasing instead of buying?
- Do you consider selling your EV after a few years?
- How many miles do you drive every year?
Conclusion
Throughout 2025 and beyond, electric vehicles are going to become more prevalent across the UK, as the ban on new petrol and diesel cars being made and sold in 2030, as well as the net-zero target of 2050, it may be better to purchase one sooner rather than later.
EVs come with many benefits, but the main concern people face is the initial investment in both the vehicle and home charging. Weigh up your options and conduct thorough research if you’re thinking about buying one. Remember, if finances are your biggest concern, leasing is a highly affordable option that offers many other benefits too.
