An honest, simple guide for first-time EV buyers from D&G Autocare
Electric vehicles (EVs) are becoming increasingly popular across the UK, and with more models available than ever, many drivers are wondering whether now is the right time to make the switch.
But choosing an EV isn’t always straightforward. Battery sizes, charging speeds, ranges and running costs can all vary, and it’s not always clear what matters most.
To help you make a confident and informed decision, here’s a practical EV buyer’s guide from the team at D&G Autocare.
1. Start With Your Real-World Driving Needs
Before looking at models or prices, think about how you actually use your car.
Ask yourself:
- How many miles do you drive per week?
- Do you mainly drive locally, or take regular long journeys?
- Do you have a driveway where you can install a home charger?
- Do you often tow or carry heavy loads?
For most everyday drivers, even a small EV with 150–200 miles of range is plenty. But if you travel long distances frequently, you’ll want a car with a larger battery and faster charging.
2. Understand EV Range (and Why It Varies)
Manufacturers advertise an official range, but real-world range depends on:
- Weather (cold reduces range)
- Speed (motorways drain batteries faster)
- Weight and passengers
- Heating and air-con use
As a rule of thumb, expect 10–30% less range in normal mixed driving.
So if an EV claims 250 miles, you might see around 180–220 miles on average.
3. Charging Options: Home vs Public
Home Charging (Best Option)
If you have a driveway, home charging is:
- cheapest
- most convenient
- simplest
A typical home charger adds 20–30 miles per hour and can fully charge most EVs overnight.
Public Charging
Useful, but more expensive and more varied. There are three types:
- Slow/fast AC chargers (7–22kW) – ideal for top-ups
- Rapid DC chargers (50kW) – 20–80% in 30–60 minutes
- Ultra-rapid chargers (100–350kW) – very fast but more costly
If you rely heavily on public charging, check networks near you before buying.
4. Battery Size and Charging Speed Matter
Larger batteries mean:
- more range
- longer charging time
- higher cost
Charging speed depends on:
- the car’s maximum charge rate
- the charger’s power
- battery temperature
If you plan long trips, choose an EV with at least 70–120kW rapid charging capability.
5. Running Costs: Cheaper Than You Think
EVs can be significantly cheaper to run:
- Electricity vs petrol/diesel – home charging especially
- Fewer moving parts – less wear
- No oil changes
- Regenerative braking reduces brake wear
However, tyres on EVs can wear faster due to weight and torque—something we routinely see in the workshop at D&G Autocare.
6. Servicing an EV: Still Important
Many drivers believe EVs don’t need servicing, but they do.
A typical EV service includes checking:
- brakes & suspension
- steering
- tyres & tracking
- coolant systems for the battery
- software updates
- cabin filters
- safety systems
EVs generally cost less to service than petrol/diesel cars, but regular maintenance is still essential for safety and efficiency.
7. Don’t Forget Insurance
Insurance costs for EVs can be higher because:
- batteries are expensive to replace
- specialist repair skills are required
- EV parts availability varies
This is improving each year, but it’s worth getting quotes before you commit.
8. Battery Warranty & Degradation
Most EVs offer 8-year or 100,000-mile warranties on the battery.
Batteries naturally degrade over time—typically around 1–3% per year—but most EV drivers don’t notice major drops until many years in.
9. Check the Used EV Market
Used EVs can be excellent value, and battery health reports make it easy to see how the battery has been maintained.
Key things to check:
- battery state of health
- service history (EV-specific)
- charging habits of the previous owner
- tyre and brake condition
10. Try One First
EVs feel different from petrol/diesel cars:
- instant acceleration
- smoother driving
- quieter cabin
- stronger braking feel (regenerative braking)
A test drive is essential — many drivers love the feel immediately.
Is an EV Right for You?
Switching to electric is a big decision, but with the right information, it’s a smart one. The key is matching the car to your lifestyle and understanding what to expect.
Whether you choose petrol, diesel, hybrid or electric, D&G Autocare is here to look after your car with trusted servicing, MOTs, tyres, brakes, repairs and advice.
