Electric vehicles (EVs) are fast becoming a mainstream transport option. Once a favourite trope in futuristic sci-fi films, they’re now a practical reality that offer a compelling alternative to traditional petrol and diesel-powered cars, which is a global priority for many countries chasing net-zero targets.
As concerns about climate change and air pollution consequences mount, the switch to EVs has become more than just a fashionable choice – it’s a responsible one, backed by science and governments around the world.
If you’re considering making the leap but are still hesitating, here are five reasons why it’s the perfect time to ditch the fossil fuels and plug into the future:
1. Environmental credentials
EVs produce zero exhaust emissions, making them a valuable ally in the fight against climate change. Transportation is still one of the largest contributors to UK greenhouse gas emissions, having been cited as the main offender in 2016. This is due to the energy sector having reduced its own emissions drastically to take second place.
With transport’s lingering impact known, EVs offer a clean and sustainable alternative that will help to protect the planet for future generations.
Lower Fuel Costs
One of the most significant advantages of EVs is their drastically lower fuel costs. Filling up a petrol or diesel tank can be a huge drain on your wallet, especially with today’s volatile fuel prices that saw drivers in 2023 paying–on average–£12.50 more for a
full tank of fuel, compared to 2019 prices.
EVs, on the other hand, can be charged at home for a fraction of the cost (on average £17 for a full charge, on a standard electricity tariff). Drivers can save even more by selecting a special EV tariff from their energy supplier or taking advantage of cheaper supply times. Ripple members can extract even more cost advantages, by charging their vehicles at a cost-effective time, using their own green energy.
By owning part of a wind farm or solar park, Ripple members are able to reduce their monthly electricity outgoings, even if they drive an EV (which around half of our community does). By accounting for EV charging needs alongside general household consumption, when calculating how much of a wind farm or solar park to own, Ripple members can ensure that they offset as much as possible. This, while still being reassured that when they do top up their vehicles, it’s with genuinely clean energy.
Find out how much of a project you’d need to sign up for to lower your home and EV bills here.
Free Tax Incentives
Several governments offer generous tax incentives to encourage EV adoption amongst consumers. These can take the form of tax credits, rebates, or full exemptions from certain taxes.
In the United Kingdom, the government offers a grant that can save you up to £3,500 on the purchase of a new EV. This is not given to buyers as a lump sum but taken off the cost of a new vehicle, at the point of purchase. Scottish drivers are also able to apply for
a no-interest loan to purchase an EV.
In addition, the Homecharge Scheme helps to reduce the cost of installing a home charging point by up to 75% and it should be remembered that EVs incur no Vehicle Excise Duty (road tax).
Silent Driving
EVs are incredibly quiet compared to their conventional counterparts. This is because they don’t have an internal combustion engine, allowing for a far quieter and more relaxing driving experience. This also reduces noise pollution in cities, creating a less overwhelming environment, however cyclists should be given extra consideration as they are less likely to hear a car behind them and are a priority road user.
Future-Proof Purchases
As more countries set ambitious goals for reducing carbon emissions, fossil fuel cars are likely to become increasingly restricted in terms of new sales, or in the case of the UK, banned by 2035. By making the switch to an EV now, you’re investing in a vehicle that will be legal and desirable on the resale market for years to come. You’ll also be ahead of the curve as charging infrastructure continues to roll out throughout the UK and EV technology becomes even more advanced, allowing for greater distances to be covered and shorter charging times.
Making the switch to an EV is a conscious decision for both your wallet and the planet. Let Ripple help you support both motivations by reserving a space on our next green energy project today.
