Should I buy an electric car in 2026?
If you’re asking, “Should I buy an electric car?” or “Should I buy an EV now or wait?”, you’re in the same position as many UK drivers.
With a growing public EV charging network, more long-range models, and falling used prices, electric cars are more accessible than ever, but there are still practical factors to consider.
In this guide, we’ll look at whether an EV is worth it, what electric cars cost, which models offer the best value, and how prices may change in the coming years.
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Is it worth buying an electric car?
Electric cars work brilliantly for some drivers and less so for others. To help you decide whether it’s time to make the switch, here’s a quick look at the benefits, drawbacks, and what to consider based on your circumstances.
Advantages
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Lower running costs for many drivers, especially with home charging.
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Less maintenance thanks to fewer moving parts.
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Quiet, smooth driving with instant acceleration.
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Attractive discounts on selected models from manufacturers and the Government’s new Electric Car Grant scheme.
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A growing choice of new EV models (135+ as of November 2025), including more affordable options such as the sub-£15k Dacia Spring.
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An expanding charging network, with over 86,798 public chargepoints across 44,412 locations as of October 2025.
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Many modern EVs offer 250–350-mile electric ranges, with some even boasting 400+!
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Adoption is growing; EVs accounted for 25.4% of new car registrations in October 2025.
Disadvantages
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Most new EVs are still priced higher than equivalent petrol and diesel cars (but the gap is narrowing).
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Charging convenience is largely dependent on home/driveway access.
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EV depreciation varies by model, but on average, electric cars lose value at a faster rate than other fuel types.
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While cheaper to buy, used early generation electric cars have limited range and reliability compared to modern equivalents - and may be unsuitable for longer trips.
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Some perks for EV drivers have been retired. They are no longer exempt from road tax - or the expensive car supplement (an extra annual charge levied on cars with a list price over £40k).
What to consider
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If you have access to private parking that’s suitable for home charging, almost any modern EV is convenient and cost-effective.
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However, charging can be expensive if you rely solely on public chargers.
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If you regularly make long motorway journeys, longer range EVs such as the Tesla Model Y, Hyundai Ioniq 6, Kia EV6, BMW i4 or Mercedes EQE can be very capable. Just be aware that real-world range can be slightly reduced under motorway conditions.
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If you rely on public charging, convenience depends on your area. For instance, a review by the UK Public Accounts Committee found that 43% of UK public chargepoints were in London or the South East, with less coverage in other regions.
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So, while these areas have seamless coverage, you may find yourself driving a little further or waiting a little longer to charge your motor elsewhere.
Electric car prices: How much does it cost to buy an EV?
| Category | Typical new pricing | Typical used pricing | Examples |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cheap electric cars | £15k–£22k for recent entry-level models | £5k–£14k for older, smaller EVs | Dacia Spring (from £14,995 new) Leapmotor T03 (from £15,995 new) |
| City EV | £25k–£35k | £12k–£22k | MG4 (from £27,245 new) Kia EV3 (from £33,005 new) |
| Best value family EV | £33k–£45k | £20k–£30k | Kia EV6 (from £45,585 new) Hyundai Kona Electric – (used from £18,800) |
| Long-range EV | £45k–£65k+ | £30k–£45k+ | Tesla Model Y (from £45,085 new) WLTP range 364–433 miles Volkswagen ID.7 (from £51,035 new) WLTP range 364–433 miles |
Pricing correct on 21st November 2025. Always check manufacturer and dealership websites for the latest pricing information.
Model-by-model EV shortlist
Best electric cars for first cars
Electric cars can make ideal first cars thanks to their smooth automatic driving, low running costs, strong safety tech, and confidence-boosting simplicity. However, charging access and EV depreciation should also be considered.
The used EV market is especially appealing, offering modern, well-equipped models, with prices often matching or even beating petrol equivalents!
MG4
Price: £14k–£22k used
Electric range: 218 miles (Standard Range), 248 miles (XPOWER), 281 miles (Long Range), 323 miles (Extended Range)
Why it’s ideal: Great value, fun to drive, modern features and easy, confidence-boosting handling.
What to consider: Touchscreen-heavy controls may not suit everyone.
Hyundai Kona Electric
Price: £12k–£21k used
Electric range: 234 miles (standard) up to 319 miles (long range)
Why it’s ideal: Excellent real-world range, reliable, and economical to run, user-friendly driving.
What to consider: Older models charge slower on rapid chargers.
VW e-Golf
Price: £6k–£12k used
Electric range: 118–186 miles (NEDC)
Why it’s ideal: Feels like a regular Golf, making it very easy to adapt to as a first EV.
What to consider: Range is modest compared with newer models.
Best budget/cheap electric cars in the UK
If you want an affordable entry into EV ownership without sacrificing utility and driveability, these budget-friendly models are worthy of your consideration:
MG4 EV SE
Price: New from £27,245
Electric range: 218 miles (WLTP) for the standard range, 281 miles for the Long Range, 323 miles for the Extended Range
Why it’s ideal: Delivers big-car range and tech at one of the lowest prices in the segment.
What to consider: Touchscreen-heavy controls may take some getting used to.
Fiat 500e
Price: £25,035-£34,035
Electric range: Up to 115 miles with 24 kWh battery and up to 199 miles (WLTP combined) with the 42KWh ‘Long Range’ battery
Why it’s ideal: Compact, stylish, and effortless to drive in busy towns and cities.
What to consider: Rear-seat and boot space are limited.
Renault ZOE
Price: (Used) £2,800 to £13,500
Electric range: Up to 245 miles (WLTP) or up to 239 miles in real-world tests
Why it’s ideal: Efficient and affordable, the ZOE is one of the best-value used EVs for daily driving. Despite being discontinued in 2024, it’s a great option for budget-conscious electric motorists with attractive used prices.
What to consider: Check for battery-lease agreements on older models.
Best family electric cars
These EVs offer the space, practicality, and comfort families need, with everyday usability for school runs, commutes, and weekend trips.
Kia Niro EV
Electric range: Up to 282 miles WLTP
Why it’s ideal: Spacious, reliable, and efficient, making it a good choice for busy families.
What to consider: Higher trims can be pricier than rivals. Charging is slower than some comparable EVs.
Hyundai Kona Electric
Electric range: Up to 319 miles WLTP
Why it’s ideal: Compact SUV form adds practicality and family-friendly usability, while the larger battery offers serious range for everyday use.
What to consider: Smaller battery versions offer much less range. Charging speed, while reasonable, is not quite as fast as some premium rivals.
VW ID.4
Electric range: 222-351 miles WLTP, depending on battery and spec
Why it’s ideal: Spacious crossover format, solid build quality, and a strong all-round EV option for families.
What to consider: Entry-level battery versions (52 kWh) have notably lower range. Charging speeds/spec may lag behind some newer rivals.
Skoda Enyaq
Electric range: Up to 332 miles WLTP for the ‘85x’ model – and up to 268 miles for the smaller battery ‘60’ variant
Why it’s ideal: A very spacious (585 litres of luggage space) and practical SUV with excellent range for families and good value within its segment.
What to consider: Top spec/bigger battery trims cost more. The heat pump option is also pricey.
Best long-range electric cars
Perfect for high-mileage drivers and anyone wondering “Should I buy an EV now or wait?”, these models combine strong range with great value.
Tesla Model Y Long Range
Electric range: 311-387 miles WLTP
Why it’s ideal: Excellent range and access to the class-leading Tesla Supercharger network.
What to consider: Ride quality can feel firm on rougher roads.
Hyundai Ioniq 6 Long Range
Price range: £47,050-£54,050
Electric range: Up to 338 miles WLTP for the long-range version
Why it’s ideal: Sleek design, strong range, and impressive charging technology (800V architecture) make the Ioniq 6 Long Range a compelling large EV.
What to consider: Premium price compared to many mass-market EVs. Interior space might trade off SUV practicality for some buyers. The sloping roofline limits headroom for taller passengers.
Kia EV6 Long Range
Price range: £45,585-£59,985
Electric range: Up to 361 miles WLTP for RWD version, up to 339 miles for AWD version
Why it’s ideal: Strong range and technology, well-built, and highly practical for family use.
What to consider: Premium trim levels and options raise the cost significantly. Ultra-fast charging is supported, but depends on having a high-power 800V charger. Newer rivals offer equal or greater range, sometimes at a lower cost.
Mercedes EQE Saloon
Price range: £68,810-£115,870
Electric range: Up to 431 miles WLTP
Why it’s ideal: Premium large electric saloon with an excellent range and luxury credentials. A refined option that’s also suitable for families.
What to consider: The upfront cost is high and running expenses (e.g. insurance and servicing) are also steeper than for many rivals.
Best used EV bargains
Like to get more for your money? Our used EV picks offer low running costs and reliability, together with generous savings on brand new prices.
Nissan Leaf
Price range: £8,000-£13,000 (2018-2022 40 kWh version)
Electric range: Advertised around 168 miles (real-world ~140 miles)
Why it’s ideal: A proven used EV with strong brand backing. Suitable for shorter daily use and provides an affordable entry point into electric motoring.
What to consider: Range is modest compared to newer EVs. Older battery health and charging speed may be limiting factors.
BMW i3
Price range: £6,000-£19,000 (2015-22 models)
Electric range: 177-190 miles WLTP
Why it’s ideal: Unique design, agile handling, and efficiency make the BMW i3 a great choice for town driving.
What to consider: Compact rear seats and styling won’t suit everyone.
Volkswagen e-Golf
Price range: £7,400-£11,500 (2015-2020)
Electric range: 75-143 miles WLTP
Why it’s ideal: Familiar, premium-feeling hatchback that’s easy to drive and great value when bought used.
What to consider: Older charging equipment limits charge speeds.
Tesla Model 3
Price range: £13,000-£21,000 (2019-22)
Electric range: Up to 348 miles WLTP for the long-range variant
Why it’s ideal: Extensive range, fast charging, and great tech at falling used prices.
What to consider: Early models have firmer suspension and more basic interiors.
Frequently Asked Questions
Electric cars typically cost around 9p per mile to run on a standard electricity tariff (24.5–30p/kWh in 2025).
On an EV tariff with off-peak rates of 7–8p/kWh, this can drop to 2-3p per mile. Even at standard rates, this is still far cheaper per mile than running a petrol car.
Charging is significantly cheaper at home, especially with off-peak tariffs.
However, with public charging only, many EVs cost the same, or sometimes even more per mile than equivalent petrol cars.
Electric car prices in the UK are likely to fall over the next few years as battery costs continue to drop, and more manufacturers introduce lower-priced, mass-market EVs.
Competition is increasing, and the used EV market is expanding as more lease vehicles return to dealerships. This growing supply is already helping to stabilise and reduce used EV prices.
However, some analysts predict that new EVs won’t reach price parity with petrol cars until around 2027.
Many industry experts predict that electric cars will soon be a driving force in the UK’s motoring industry.
The Government is committed to encouraging widespread EV adoption with initiatives such as the Electric Car Grant, the rollout of new public charging infrastructure, and the ban on the sale of new petrol and diesel cars, which is set to begin in 2030.
According to an October 2025 forecast by the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT), EVs will account for almost a third of new cars sold by 2027, only slightly behind the projected petrol market share for that year (forecast at around 35%).
Consider buying now if:
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Your home is suitable for private charging.
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Your daily mileage is predictable and moderate.
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You want lower running costs.
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You’re happy to plan charging on longer journeys.
Consider waiting if:
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You rely heavily on public charging.
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You make regular non-stop long motorway trips.
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You want to wait for next-gen 450–500-mile EVs or further price drops.
