Complete Electric Car Guide
Everything you need to know about electric vehicles in 2025 - from benefits and costs to charging infrastructure and buying advice for UK drivers
The Future is Electric
Electric vehicles are transforming UK roads. With zero emissions, significantly lower running costs, and impressive performance, EVs are becoming the smart choice for more drivers every day. Browse electric vehicles listed on CarDash from private sellers and dealers across the UK, and use our comprehensive guide to make an informed decision.
Why Choose Electric?
Electric vehicles offer numerous advantages over traditional petrol and diesel cars, from environmental benefits to significant cost savings and enhanced performance. With the UK government planning to ban new petrol and diesel car sales from 2030 (2035 for hybrids), now is the perfect time to consider making the switch.
Zero Emissions
No tailpipe emissions, helping reduce air pollution and carbon footprint
Lower Running Costs
Home charging costs around 7-9p/kWh on overnight tariffs vs 12-15p per mile for petrol
Less Maintenance
No oil changes, fewer moving parts - maintenance costs up to 50% lower than petrol/diesel
Instant Torque
Electric motors provide immediate power delivery for smooth, rapid acceleration
Company Car Benefits
Just 3% BIK rate for electric company cars in 2025/26, rising to 4% in 2026/27
VED Now Applied
EVs registered from April 2025 onwards pay £10 first year, then £190 standard rate. Pre-April 2025 EVs remain at £0.
Key Considerations
Range
Modern EVs offer 200-400+ miles per charge (WLTP)
💡 Most UK drivers travel under 30 miles per day - even 200-mile range EVs suit most needs
Charging
Over 70,000 public charge points across 42,000+ UK locations
💡 Home charging overnight is cheapest and most convenient - consider a 7kW home wallbox
Cost
Upfront costs dropping - many EVs now competitive with petrol equivalents
💡 Factor in fuel savings (£1,000-1,500/year), lower maintenance, and tax benefits
Infrastructure
Rapid charging network expanding quickly across motorways
💡 Use apps like Zap-Map, BP Pulse, or Pod Point to find and plan charging stops
Battery Technology & Longevity
Battery Degradation: Modern EV batteries are highly durable. Typical degradation is around 2-3% in the first year, then around 1% per year thereafter. After 8 years, most EVs retain 85-90% of original battery capacity.
Warranty Protection: Most manufacturers offer 8-year/100,000-mile battery warranties, guaranteeing at least 70-80% capacity retention.
Real-World Data: Tesla data shows their vehicles averaging less than 10% degradation after 200,000 miles. Battery technology continues improving with each generation.