Tusker launches EV driver guide to change mindset

Tusker has launched a new guide for prospective electric vehicle (EV) drivers that helps them develop the right mindset.

It focuses on the subtle changes of behaviour needed to get the most from an EV compared with an internal combustion engine (ICE) and highlights the financial benefits that accompany a move to electric.

Vicky Anderson, Tusker’s marketing director, said: “We produced the guide after feedback from drivers which highlighted there are still some unknowns on how to get the cost from their EVs.

“Our aim is to maximise the number of people in emission-free vehicles and enjoying them as well.”

While around 40% of drivers do not have a driveway and are unable charge at home, says Tusker, it believes the savings are significant enough to consider moving to an EV with the right mindset.

Many drivers considering moving to an EV are cautious due to the higher purchase price, but immediate savings can be had in reduced charging costs compared with filling up with fuel, it argues.

It costs around £40 in fuel to cover 300 miles in a petrol VW Golf. The same journey in a VW ID3 EV, according to Tusker, would cost £10 when home charged on a peak electricity tariff and under £4 if the driver uses an off-peak tariff – a saving of 90%.

Further savings available when driving an EV on a salary sacrifice scheme, it says. The 2021/22 BIK rate is currently 1% which equals £160 for an equivalent priced car for a 40% tax paying EV driver. That equates to an annual reduction of £2,400.

Anderson said: “The majority of drivers haven’t had to change their driving style or mindset since they passed their test at the age of 17 so we wanted to provide some helpful hints to help them enjoy the experience and get more value from their new technology.

“The transition from an ICE to an EV is worrying for some drivers but with new longer range EVs being launched and more chargers being introduced this change of mindset will quickly become the norm.”