Drivers of electric vehicles (EVs) across the UK are now able to charge their cars for as little as 2p per mile, a significant reduction that makes running an EV considerably cheaper than a petrol equivalent. This insight comes from the latest 'Charge Watch' report published by the RAC, which monitors the cost of charging electric cars.
The dramatic drop in per-mile charging costs is primarily attributed to lower wholesale electricity prices and the increasing availability of smart charging tariffs. These tariffs allow EV owners to charge their vehicles during off-peak hours, typically overnight, when electricity demand and prices are at their lowest. The RAC's analysis indicates that a full charge for an average EV using these methods can now cost substantially less than previously observed.
For context, the average cost of petrol in the UK has seen fluctuations, but consistently remains at a level where covering the same distance in a conventional internal combustion engine vehicle would incur significantly higher fuel expenses. This new low for EV charging could therefore represent a pivotal moment in the ongoing transition to electric transport, making the financial case for switching even more compelling for many households.
The implications of this trend extend beyond individual savings. Cheaper running costs for EVs could accelerate their adoption, contributing to the UK's net-zero targets and reducing reliance on fossil fuels. The Government has set ambitious targets for phasing out the sale of new petrol and diesel cars, and more affordable charging is a key enabler for meeting these objectives. Policies promoting smart charging infrastructure and competitive energy tariffs are crucial in sustaining this progress.
While the 2p per mile figure represents the lowest possible cost achieved through optimal off-peak home charging, the RAC also noted that public charging costs, particularly at rapid chargers, remain higher. However, even with these higher costs, the overall running expenses for an EV are generally more favourable than those of a petrol car. This disparity underscores the importance of home charging for maximising savings for EV owners.
The opposition Labour Party has frequently called for greater support for EV infrastructure and for measures to ensure charging remains affordable and accessible for all. This latest data from the RAC could provide further impetus for discussions around energy pricing, charging network expansion, and consumer incentives to further encourage EV uptake.