As the world comes together to tackle climate change and reduce carbon emissions, there has been a huge surge in the sales of electric vehicles. As of the end of July 2023, there are now around 840,000 fully electric cars and a further 520,000 plug-in hybrids in the UK alone.
It’s no wonder this number has risen with the news that we will no longer be able to purchase new petrol and diesel cars from 2030.
The chart below shows the growth of electric car registrations from 2016 to 2023. They’ve had a particular increase from 2020!
(Source: SMMT, July 2023)
So, let’s take a look at the most popular electric cars and how they can benefit you.
5 most popular electric cars
1. Tesla Model Y
The Tesla Model Y was Britain’s best-selling electric car in 2022.
2. Tesla Model 3
The Tesla Model 3 was 2021’s best-selling electric car in the UK.
3. Kia e-Niro/Niro EV
The Kia e-Niro is practical and spacious, making it a great choice for families.
4. Nissan Leaf
A practical car that’s reasonably affordable.
5. Volkswagen ID.3
The Volkswagen ID.3 is regarded as one of the safest and most comfortable models in its class.
Beyond their sleek look and eco-friendly appeal, electric vehicles have a range of benefits that extend well beyond the idea of carbon footprint reduction. From their reduced maintenance costs to their overall convenience, they really are revolutionising the automotive industry.
5 Benefits of Electric Vehicles
1. Better for our planet
Electric vehicles (EVs) stand as a beacon of hope for a more sustainable future, offering a clear advantage over traditional petrol or diesel cars in terms of their environmental impact.
Did you know that just one EV on the road can save an average of 1.5 million grams of CO2. Unlike traditional engine vehicles, EVs produce zero tailpipe emissions which significantly reduce air pollutants and greenhouse gas emissions. This singular characteristic plays a pivotal role in combating climate change and improving air quality.
The overall carbon footprint of EVs is considerably lower when considering the entire lifecycle, from manufacturing to operation. The shift to electric vehicles represents a powerful step towards reducing our dependence on fossil fuels, minimising pollution, and ultimately fostering a healthier planet for generations to come.
2. Cheaper to run
One of the greatest advantages of EVs lies in their remarkably lower fuel costs compared to traditional petrol or diesel cars. Drivers charging at home on an EV tariff can save over 56% compared to petrol or diesel per mile. This can make a huge difference over time, especially for those commuting everyday.
Additionally, the stability of electricity prices compared to the often volatile nature of fossil fuel prices provides more predictable and consistent fuel expenses for EV owners. This economic advantage not only lightens the financial burden of driving but also contributes to a more sustainable and cost-effective transportation landscape.
3. Lower maintenance costs
Not only are EVs cheaper to run on a day-to-day basis, they’re also cheaper to run in the long-run.
Compared to general petrol or diesel vehicles, EVs have fewer moving parts which ultimately means there are reduced maintenance requirements and fewer visits to the mechanic. The absence of engine oil changes, exhaust systems, and complex transmission components further contribute to the overall decrease in long-term maintenance expenses. This combination of lower fuel and maintenance costs positions EVs as not only environmentally conscious choices but also as financially beneficial for consumers looking to reduce their yearly expenses.
4. Reduce noise pollution
One of the underrated benefits of EVs is that they help to reduce noise pollution. Noise pollution is a type of environmental pollution that is caused by unwanted or excessive sound which ultimately disturbs our health and ecosystem.
A study focussing solely on vehicle noise pollution found that traffic can account for 80% of the environmental impact of noise. According to the National Geographic Society, noise pollution is “an invisible danger” as it can have serious negative effects on our physical and mental health, as well as our environment and wildlife.
EVs operate almost silently due to their electric motors, resulting in significantly lower noise levels compared to petrol or diesel cars. As the rise of EVs increases, there will be a huge positive impact on noise pollution on the roads.
5. Enhance your life
Your whole experience of owning a vehicle will change entirely when you switch from a petrol/diesel to an electric vehicle.
You’ll never have to worry about running low on fuel again. However, you may be apprehensive about running low on charge. Fortunately, when you own an EV you’ll have the luxury of charging your car from home (meaning you could charge it overnight and it’ll be ready for you in the morning).
Most cars on the market have a range of anywhere between 100-300 miles. So if your journeys are relatively short, this’ll last you a good while.
Not only are they practical, electric cars are also enjoyable to drive! They deliver power instantly, providing immediate acceleration without the need for gear changes. This results in a smooth driving experience, especially in city traffic and stop-and-go situations.
Not to mention the smart features, such as adaptive cruise control, self-parking capabilities, and over-the-air updates. These features contribute to convenience and an enhanced driving experience.
If you’re thinking about swapping your car for a new, electric vehicle then you’ll have to consider selling your current one. At Overton Automotive, we provide customers with an end-to-end service on our online vehicle auctions for just £60 + VAT. From taking care of all your documents and data to washing your car and selling it for you, just hand over the keys and we’ll have you covered.
Get in touch with our lovely team to see how we can help you.
T: 01224 722 354
