Driving the Shift to Electric: What UK Drivers and Fleets Need to Know

Electric vehicles (EVs) are no longer a future consideration – they’re firmly part of today’s fleet landscape. In fact, recent data from Fleet Alliance shows that EVs accounted for 84% of all orders in 2025; in 2026 that trend is rising.

So, what’s driving this shift? A big part of the answer is cost.

Lower Running Costs

One of the most immediate savings comes from day-to-day running. Charging an EV at home can cost as little as 7p per mile, compared to 15–22p per mile for petrol or diesel, a cost that is rapidly escalating as fuel prices soar.
Over a year, that can translate to £600–£1,100 in fuel savings alone, depending on mileage and charging habits

Reduced Maintenance

EVs have fewer moving parts than internal combustion engine vehicles. No oil changes, fewer brake replacements, and less wear and tear mean lower servicing costs, typically saving drivers between £50–£370 per year.

Tax Advantages

For company car drivers, the savings are even more compelling. Benefit-in-Kind (BIK) rates for EVs remain significantly lower than petrol or diesel alternatives, and are set to stay attractive in the coming years.

As highlighted by Fleet Alliance CEO Andy Bruce, “The electrification movement continues to gather pace helped by still-advantageous tax breaks, with a current rate of company car tax of just 5% by 2027/8.”

Additional Savings

EV drivers can also benefit from:

• Avoiding or reducing urban charges (such as clean air zones)
• Lower overall total cost of ownership for fleets
• Greater efficiency for high-mileage drivers
• A more relaxed driving environment

The Bottom Line

While upfront costs can sometimes be higher, the overall cost of ownership for EVs is typically lower, especially for company car drivers and fleets.

With savings on fuel, maintenance, and tax, it’s easy to see why EV adoption continues to grow year-on-year.

Ready to Make the Switch?

Whether you’re reviewing your company car policy or looking to future-proof your fleet, now is the time to explore electric.

Speak to Fleet Alliance today to understand how much you could save and find the right EV solution for your business.