There’s still a little way to go until the ban on petrol and diesel vehicles in the UK in 2035 (pushed back from 2030), but this hasn’t stopped the green revolution getting well underway on UK roads. More and more drivers are making the switch to electric cars and unlocking the power of green technology.
However, for those who haven’t yet decided to embrace a new way of driving, the question of ‘is it worth getting an electric car?’ looms large. While there are undeniable environmental benefits to getting an electric car, factors like cost and driving experience mean that it’s important to contemplate getting an electric car properly. To answer this question and help you make a choice that aligns with your lifestyle and priorities, we’ve dived into the pros and cons of getting an electric car.
Pros Of Getting An Electric Car
First things first, let’s tackle the reasons why it’s worth getting an electric car. More than just a net-zero statement, electric vehicles offer a number of key advantages to drivers as well as the environment.
Reduce Your Environmental Impact
This one’s pretty obvious, but one of the most compelling reasons to make the switch to driving an electric car is the positive impact on the environment. Without the need to use petrol or diesel, electric cars produce zero exhaust emissions. This reduces air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions and ultimately has a positive impact on the planet. By getting an electric vehicle, you are therefore making a conscious and important contribution to a greener and cleaner future.
Drive The Latest Models
From BMW to Tesla, pretty much every vehicle manufacturer is working its way through an intensive, electric-first strategy at the moment. In fact, many brands are completely stopping production of some of their most popular and historic petrol and diesel models (take the Ford Fiesta as an example) to focus clearly on manufacturing the highest specification electric vehicles. This means that, by getting an electric car, you have the opportunity to drive the very latest models and try out the most recent cutting-edge technology.
Cheap To Run
There is no hiding from the fact that electricity bills have risen significantly over the past year or so, but the cost of running an electric car is still typically less than the same costs involved where petrol or diesel vehicles are concerned. Most electric models have fewer moving parts which reduces maintenance costs and you’ll also benefit from exemptions when it comes to the various clean air zones across the UK as well as the expanding London Ultra Low Emission Zone.
Cons Of Getting An Electric Car
However, despite clear benefits when it comes to getting an electric car, the switch is not suitable for all drivers. Running costs make up only half of the equation and it’s important to consider how you use your vehicle when deciding if an electric car is right for you.
Initial Cost Can Be High
Many drivers are put off by the initial cost of getting an electric car. While this type of vehicle does offer long-term savings on fuel and maintenance, electric cars typically command a higher purchase price given that the technology involved is still very new and manufacturers are having to make significant investments in infrastructure which are then passed onto drivers. There are also fewer options to pick up an electric car on the second-hand market in comparison to petrol and diesel counterparts.
Range Options Are Not Feasible For All
It’s also vital that you weigh up your driving requirements when deciding if it is worth getting an electric car. The driving range of electric vehicles has vastly improved over recent years but does still vary between models. While some can travel over 300 miles on a single charge like the BMW i4, others may have a more limited range that is not suitable for those frequently travelling long distances. Make sure that you do your research first and find a model that suits you and your habits.
Charging Infrastructure Is Still Improving
Similarly, there is still room for improvement in terms of the essential charging infrastructure for electric cars. If you live in a rural area, it may be harder to access public charging points and the additional expense of a home charging port will likely be necessary. However, charging options have expanded rapidly since electric vehicles first entered the market and the number of charging points in the UK increased by 42% between August 2022 and August 2023.
Explore Electric Car Lease Deals With Intelligent Vehicle Finance
If you are keen to get your hands on an electric car and have decided that going green aligns with your preferences and requirements, a lease deal can be the perfect way to join the move towards zero emissions. Electric car leasing gives you the opportunity to drive a brand-new and green vehicle without being priced out of the switch by high initial and outright costs.
Here at Intelligent Vehicle Finance, we offer a huge range of electric car lease deals including contract hire and finance leases for businesses and individuals. With the top models from the top manufacturers available, don’t hesitate to get in touch with our friendly and expert team to explore your options and find the perfect electric car lease deal for you today!