So, you’ve set your sights on a Pivotal sustainable car subscription and want to delve into the world of low-emission vehicles. In this post, we’ll explore the ins and outs of making the switch from traditional petrol or diesel cars (ICE) to electric vehicles (EV) or plug-in hybrids (PHEV). Let’s weigh the pros and cons, helping you determine if an EV or PHEV is the right fit for your driving needs.
Before we dive into the advantages, let’s address some downsides commonly associated with pure electric vehicles:
EVs Don’t Travel as Far on a Single Charge
It’s true that, in general, EVs have a shorter range compared to their ICE counterparts. However, with ongoing advancements in battery technology, top EVs are closing the gap in terms of range. Factors like outdoor temperature, road type, and driving style influence how far an EV will go on a single charge.
Charging Time Challenges
Compared to the quick pit stops at the gas station, charging an electric car takes longer. Yet, the convenience of having a ‘fuel pump’ at your doorstep compensates for this. Most cars spend over 90% of their time parked, providing ample opportunity to charge while you work or sleep.
UK Public Charging Network Concerns
UK Public Charging Network Concerns
Long-distance journeys may pose challenges in finding suitable charging points. However, tools like Zap-Map help plan routes, check charger availability, and ease the charging experience. Although charging speeds vary, with the Jaguar I-PACE, for instance, capable of charging at 100 kW, most UK rapid chargers operate at 50 kW.
Now, let’s shift to the bright side— the advantages of electric vehicles:
Cheaper to Run
Charging an electric vehicle at home on a standard energy tariff can halve your annual fuel costs compared to an equivalent ICE vehicle. With an average home charger installation cost of around £500 (with government subsidy), it pays for itself after approximately 10,000 miles, factoring in fuel savings.
Environmental Benefits
EVs contribute to a greener planet. The total CO2 emissions over the vehicle’s life (manufacturing, use, and recycling) are lower than those of petrol or diesel equivalents. As the UK’s renewable energy capacity expands, the environmental impact continues to improve.
Tax Advantages
For businesses considering car subscriptions, EVs enjoy preferential treatment in taxes. In the 2022/2023 tax year, the benefit-in-kind rate on fully electric vehicles is a mere 2%, offering significant tax savings for company cars used for personal and business purposes.
Making the Decision: EV or PHEV?
Choosing between a pure EV and a PHEV depends on personal preferences and compromises. While EVs work well for many, PHEVs offer environmental and cost benefits in day-to-day use, with the added peace of mind that longer journeys won’t solely rely on public charging.
Subscribe to Pivotal for Your Sustainable Drive
Ready to embrace a sustainable drive with a car subscription? Explore the benefits of EVs and PHEVs by visiting our Sustainable Future page. If you’re a business looking to subscribe, check out our business page for more information: Pivotal Business Page. Subscribe today and experience the convenience of Cars on Subscription in the UK, making your drive more flexible, sustainable, and tailored to your needs.
