Our electric vehicle (EV) ownership guide
With the 2030 Petrol and Diesel ban on the horizon, the UK’s new car scene will soon be entirely electric. However, used petrol and diesel cars will still be possible to purchase, so the question in buyers’ minds remains: are electric cars worth it?
Going green is more than just talk. It’s hard to miss that in recent years, EVs have become notably more common on Norfolk roads. Is it a fad, or have the ‘pros’ of electric vehicles finally outweighed the ‘cons’? At Busseys, we believe informed drivers make better decisions, so we’ve put together this guide to answer your burning questions about electric cars, their costs and practicalities, environmental impact, and what you can expect from ownership.
Some car owners are still on the fence about electric vehicles. However, the technology changes all the time – what was a prohibitive issue five years ago may not still be one now.
What is the upfront cost?
A big cause for delay in many potential EV buyers is the upfront cost. Whilst lower than it used to be, it is still true that EVs are typically more expensive to buy outright, and with a faster rate of diminishing returns on resale. Used electric cars provide an affordable alternative: at Busseys, we offer a range of used electric cars in excellent condition, fully services and with a strong battery life.
How long does it take to charge an electric car?
This depends on your charger and battery size. A home charger may take 6 – 12 hours, while rapid public chargers can provide 80% charge in around 30 – 60 minutes. Some planning is required to make sure you stay charged up. However, Norfolk – like the rest of the UK – has an expanding network of charging stations to support EV drivers, and charge points are becoming increasingly common at venues such as offices and supermarkets, as well as dedicated charging facilities such as the Norwich Electric Forecourt®.
How far will an EV travel on full charge?
As well as finding suitable charge points, another source of anxiety is range. While this is still a concern for heavy commuters or long-distance travellers, most new electric cars comfortably cover 150 -300 miles per charge. That’s as far as Norwich to Birmingham, through to Norwich to Scotland!
Are EVs harder to repair?
Electric vehicles are more complex and, at present, less common that traditional car types. This means there are fewer home repairs that you are able to make to your own vehicle, with increased likelihood of needing to take your car to a qualified technician. Thankfully, Busseys technicians are fully qualified to assist with your EV repairs.
Not buying new? Busseys offer a range of warranties for used cars you give you peace of mind.
What are the environmental impacts of electric vehicles?
One of the most compelling reasons to switch to an EV is ‘going green’. Electric cars produce zero tailpipe emissions, meaning they don’t emit harmful gases such as CO₂ or NOx while driving. Over their lifetime, EVs have a smaller carbon footprint than petrol or diesel vehicles – especially when charged using renewable energy sources.
In a rural and eco-conscious region like Norfolk, EVs help reduce local air pollution and support broader sustainability goals, as well as reducing street noise, which has benefits for Norfolk’s human and animal populations alike.
How much do electric cars cost to run?
Whilst they have a higher upfront cost, electric cars are cheaper to run day-to-day, and this can have a cumulative benefit. Charging an electric car typically costs less than refuelling with petrol or diesel. Additionally, EVs have fewer moving parts, so whilst repairs tend to cost more than traditional vehicles, the need for servicing and maintenance is greatly reduced.
Do electric cars pay a congestion charge?
If you commute to London, then good news – electric cars don’t pay congestion charge! Whilst a hybrid car may still be eligible, fully electric cars skip this charge, helping you save money if you travel in restricted areas. EVs even cost less to tax!
Is it easy to charge an electric car?
More and more venues are including electric car charge points, including supermarkets, offices and public car parks. Even better, there are many incentives that can help you in paying for an EV charge point at home, meaning charging should barely have to factor into your day-to-day planning.
Are all electric cars automatic?
Yes. Because EVs don’t use traditional gearboxes, they provide smooth and responsive acceleration without changing gears. This makes for a more enjoyable overall driving experience and contributes to EVs having less frequent repair needs from wear and tear.
Electric Cars at Busseys
At Busseys, we stock a range of electric vehicles, including the latest electric Ford cars like the Ford Mustang Mach-E – offering cutting-edge tech, sleek design, and impressive electric range. We also have a regularly updated selection of used electric cars, perfect if you’re looking for a greener drive at a lower price point.
Whether you’re commuting in Norwich, exploring the Norfolk countryside, or making the leap to a more sustainable lifestyle, we’re here to help you find the right EV for you.
Ready to Make the Switch?
Electric cars aren’t just the future – they’re the present. With lower running costs, a smaller environmental footprint, and exciting new models arriving every year, there’s never been a better time to consider going electric.
Still have questions? Our EV experts are ready to help you with any questions about specific new and used electric or hybrid models, or about EVs more generally. Get in touch to ask us your questions, or better yet, pop into your local Busseys showroom and take a test drive today.
