Money Mail has discovered that the cost of charging an electric car is decreasing, but only for those who have the ability to charge their car at home. This is due to new, lower electric car specific tariffs and the decrease in domestic electricity prices. Charging at home can now cost as little as 2p per mile. However, electric car owners who are forced to use public charging points face much higher costs, with prices reaching up to 24p per mile. This is 12 times more expensive than the cheapest methods.
The decrease in domestic electricity tariffs means that electric car owners who can charge at home will now pay less to fill up their car compared to owning a petrol or diesel vehicle. This is a significant shift from a year ago when petrol was more expensive. However, for those who rely on public chargers, a 200-mile journey in an electric car could cost £10 more than in a petrol car.
According to Zapmap, the cost of public charging points has increased by 16 to 20 percent over the past year. Electric car owners who use public chargers also face confusion and hidden fees, as charging costs vary depending on the time of day and the network used. Consumer champion Martyn James highlights that the cost of filling an electric car now depends on where you charge it.
In conclusion, while the cost of charging an electric car is decreasing for those who can charge at home, it is becoming more expensive for those who rely on public charging points. The increase in public charging costs, along with the confusion and hidden fees, make it important for electric car owners to carefully consider where and when they charge their vehicles.The cost of driving one mile in a petrol car is approximately 20p for fuel, while diesel costs around 17p per mile. According to data collector NimbleFins, petrol cars average 36 miles per gallon, while diesel cars average 43 miles per gallon. The average price of petrol is 155p per litre (£7.05 per gallon), and diesel is 162p per litre (£7.36 per gallon), as reported by the RAC.
In comparison, an electric car can travel about 3.5 miles on 1kWh of battery power. Charging an electric car can cost up to 24p per mile if using a public charging point. However, the cost of charging varies depending on the charging network chosen. There are 60 different charging networks in the UK, each offering different prices. Additionally, the price can differ depending on whether the user has subscribed to a network and is using its app.
For example, BP Pulse charges 69p per kWh for subscribers using its ‘ultra rapid’ equipment, with an additional monthly cost of £7.85. Non-subscribers who pay with a contactless debit or credit card are charged 85p per kWh, equivalent to 24p per mile. Tesla chargers can demand up to 77p per kWh, which works out to be around 22p per mile.
Overall, the cost of charging an electric car depends on various factors such as the charging network, subscription status, and payment method.The cost of charging an electric car at home has decreased from 30p to 27p per kWh, which is the capped rate set by the government for direct debit payments. This means that the cost of charging at home has also dropped from around 9p to 8p per mile for households on a standard variable tariff. Some energy companies have introduced special deals for electric vehicle drivers, further reducing the cost of charging at home. These offers are only available to those with smart meters. For example, Ovo launched a plan that charges motorists just 7p per kWh, which is less than 3p per mile. Octopus Energy also offers a competitive tariff of 7.5p per kWh for electric car owners. According to consumer group Which?, electric car owners spend over £1,250 more per year if they use public chargers instead of charging at home. This difference in cost is due to the higher tax rate applied to public charging points, which charge the standard VAT rate of 20%, while domestic electricity is taxed at 5%. The tax calculation at public charging points is often hidden in the e-receipt issued after charging. For example, Ubitricity charges 79p per kWh (including VAT) during peak times and 46p per kWh off-peak, with an additional 35p including VAT connection fee. Overall, charging an electric car at home is significantly cheaper than using public chargers.There are rapid charge points in the UK that allow you to fill up in just a few minutes. However, these tend to be among the most expensive. For example, Tesla charges 77p per kWh (22p per mile) to use its fastest ‘super chargers’ if you have a car that can take its chargers but is not a Tesla, or 67p (19p per mile) if it is. Other top-speed chargers include InstaVolt at 85p per kWh (24p per mile), Shell Recharge at 81p (23p per mile), Osprey and GeniePoint (peak time 8am to 8pm) both at 79p (22p per mile), Pod Point and Ionity at 74p (21p per mile), and Gridserve and Fastned at 69p per kWh (20p per mile).
Martyn James suggests that getting a proper charger fitted at home is the best option, but it may cost more than £400 to install. Alternatively, you can plug your electric car into a standard three-pin socket at home using an adapter for under £200, but it will take at least 24 hours to fully charge a car. A ten-metre Masterplug costs £180. A better option is a standard 7kW home fast charger, which costs from about £400 and typically £500 to install. These chargers can take eight hours to fully charge an electric car. Options include the £440 Hive Alfen Eve S-Line up to the stylish £1,249 Oak-finished Andersen A2.
The most expensive option is a 22kW home charger, which can power a car in three to four hours. However, it requires the electricity to be rigged up to a three-phase power supply, which is not standard in most homes. To upgrade your existing system and install it, you can expect to pay an electrician at least £4,000. A popular model is the £1,749 Pod Point Solo 3.The article discusses various deals related to saving money on motoring. The article includes paragraphs that contain CSS code for styling the deals widget, as well as paragraphs that describe each deal and provide links to more information.
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Overall, the article provides information about various deals related to saving money on motoring and includes links for readers to learn more about each deal.Every year, millions of vehicles in the UK are required to undergo an MOT test to ensure they meet the minimum safety and environmental standards. This test is a legal requirement and failure to comply can result in fines and even the suspension of your vehicle’s registration.
The MOT test is designed to check various components of your vehicle, including its brakes, lights, tires, and emissions. It is carried out by certified technicians who have the expertise to identify any potential issues or faults that may compromise the safety or efficiency of your vehicle.
In the past, getting an MOT test done could be a hassle, requiring you to book an appointment at a testing center and potentially wait for hours. However, with the advancement of technology, the process has become much easier and more convenient.
Nowadays, you can apply for an MOT test online, saving you time and effort. Many service providers offer online booking systems that allow you to choose a date and time that suits you. This means you can avoid the long queues and waiting times typically associated with traditional MOT testing.
Once you have booked your MOT test online, you simply need to take your vehicle to the designated testing center on the chosen date. The certified technicians will then carry out the necessary checks and provide you with a detailed report on the condition of your vehicle.
If your vehicle passes the MOT test, you will receive a certificate that is valid for one year. This certificate serves as proof that your vehicle meets the required standards and is safe to drive on the road. It is important to keep this certificate safe as you may be required to present it in certain situations, such as when selling your vehicle.
In the event that your vehicle fails the MOT test, the technicians will provide you with a list of the faults or issues that need to be addressed. You will then have a specified period of time to get these issues fixed and have your vehicle retested. Some service providers even offer a free retest within a certain timeframe.
Overall, the MOT test plays a crucial role in ensuring the safety and roadworthiness of vehicles in the UK. With the convenience of online booking systems, getting an MOT test done has never been easier. So, make sure to stay on top of your vehicle’s MOT requirements and book your test in advance to avoid any last-minute stress or penalties.
