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There are several types of electric vehicles available, depending on how you prefer to drive and charge. These include fully electric cars, which run entirely on battery power, plug-in hybrids that combine electric power with a petrol or diesel engine, and hybrid vehicles that use a combination of both. There are also electric vans and other commercial vehicles designed for business use. Each option offers different benefits, so the right choice will depend on your driving habits, budget and access to charging.

An electric car could be a great choice for all sorts of drivers, whether you’re commuting to work, doing the school run or heading out on longer journeys. They’re particularly well suited to drivers who can charge at home or at work, making it easy to keep the battery topped up. With a range of new electric cars available, there are options to suit different lifestyles, budgets and driving needs. If you’re thinking about making the switch, it’s worth considering your usual mileage, charging options and the features that matter most to you.

Electric cars can be cheaper to run than petrol or diesel models, particularly if you charge at home using an off-peak electricity tariff. Electricity can cost less per mile than fuel, and fully electric cars generally need less routine maintenance because they have fewer moving parts and no engine oil to change. The amount you could save will depend on your mileage, how and where you charge, and the vehicle you choose. Comparing your current running costs with those of a new electric car can help you work out whether making the switch could save you money.

Electric cars are generally straightforward to maintain and can cost less to service than petrol or diesel vehicles. With fewer moving parts and no engine oil to change, there are fewer routine maintenance tasks to worry about. Servicing still matters, though, with checks on the brakes, tyres, suspension, battery and other key systems helping to keep your car in good condition. Your servicing schedule will depend on the make and model, so it's always best to follow the manufacturer's recommendations.

Public electric car charging points can be found at locations across the UK, including supermarkets, shopping centres, car parks, motorway service stations and some workplaces. Finding a charger is easy with apps such as Zapmap, which let you search for nearby charging points, check connector types and see charging speeds. Many networks also show live availability, helping you plan stops around your journey. If you're travelling further afield, it's worth checking your route in advance so you know where you can stop and charge.

Charging an electric car can be cheaper than filling up with petrol or diesel, especially if you charge at home using a suitable off-peak electricity tariff. Public charging costs vary depending on the network, charger speed and location, with rapid chargers often costing more than home charging. How much you pay will also depend on your car's battery size and how much charge you need. If you're considering switching to electric, it's worth comparing home and public charging costs to get a better idea of what your day to day running costs could look like.