Average new UK electric car price is now lower than petrol vehicles

4 hours ago

New battery electric car prices have dropped below petrol cars in the UK for the first time, a significant step in the transition from fossil fuels.
The average price of a new electric car is £42,620, compared to £43,405 for petrol, making electric cars £785 cheaper after discounts.
Electric cars have long had lower running costs, but the higher upfront cost had been a major barrier for drivers switching from petrol or diesel.
In the first quarter of the year, battery electric cars made up 22% of new car sales in the UK.
Price reductions are driven by government grants, pressure from the zero emission vehicle mandate, and competition from Chinese carmakers.
The combination of lower upfront and running costs makes electric cars increasingly attractive, marking a pivotal moment for decarbonizing transport.
Carmakers have offered high discounts to boost electric sales, aided by rising petrol and diesel prices due to geopolitical events.
A key remaining barrier is the patchy public charging network, especially for households without driveways.

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