EST launches online cost calculator for used electric cars

Energy Saving Trust has developed a web tool to give car buyers an insight into the running costs of a used electric vehicle.

The used electric vehicle calculator allows drivers to compare their current car’s fuel and road tax costs with the used EV of their choice.

It also asks the potential EV buyer about traffic charging zones, such as London’s congestion charge zone.

Matthew Eastwood, head of transport at EST, said: “As electric vehicles become commonplace, we’re going to see more and more of them appearing on the second-hand market, making ownership ever more accessible and affordable.

“This web-based tool signposts to further information as well as demonstrating the significant savings these cars can offer and, as this is still a new way of driving for many, having access to this information should inform and hopefully encourage more people than ever understand the real value of moving to an electric vehicle in the future.”

EST estimates that 27,000 electric cars entered the used car market in 2018.

Eastwood added: “The purchase price of a used EV is less than that of a comparable used petrol or diesel vehicle and public charging infrastructure is expanding all the time.

“It’s also straightforward and cost effective to install a chargepoint at home in a driveway or garage making it a convenient option.”

EST said EVs offer drivers potential savings of thousands of pounds compared to running petrol or diesel car.

It estimates that a driver doing 7,500 miles a year– the national average mileage – could save around £820 a year on fuel and tax by driving a fully-electric Nissan Leaf, compared to a medium-sized petrol car (assuming a petrol price of £1.17 per litre).

To use the electric vehicle calculator visit usedevcalculator.est.org.uk