How Much Can You Really Save With the UK Electric Car Grant?
If you’ve been eyeing an electric car but the price tag made you wince, there’s good news. The UK government’s Electric Car Grant (ECG) is back, and it’s making a real dent in the cost of going electric. But how much can you actually save? And which cars are eligible? Let’s break it down in plain English, so you know exactly what to expect before you visit the dealership.
What Is the Electric Car Grant and Who Qualifies?
The ECG is a government-backed scheme designed to help more drivers make the switch to zero-emission vehicles. Relaunched in July 2025 with a hefty £650 million budget, the grant aims to accelerate EV adoption by knocking thousands off the price of eligible new electric cars.
But there’s a catch: not every EV qualifies. The grant applies to cars priced below £37,000, and there are strict requirements around range, sustainability, and warranties. The government even considers the emissions involved in making the battery and assembling the car, plus the carbon footprint of the electricity used in the manufacturing country. These science-based targets mean only the greenest, most efficient models make the cut.
How Does the Grant Work? Understanding the Two Tiers
The ECG isn’t a one-size-fits-all discount. Instead, it’s split into two bands:
– Band One: £3,750 off the price of the car
– Band Two: £1,500 off
Band one is reserved for the most efficient, sustainable models, while band two covers a wider range of EVs that still meet the government’s criteria. The savings are applied directly to the purchase price, so you don’t have to jump through hoops or wait for a rebate.
Which Electric Cars Are Eligible for the Biggest Discounts?
Let’s get to the good stuff: which cars qualify, and how much can you save? Here’s a snapshot of some of the best deals available right now.
Band One – £3,750 Discount
Ford E-Tourneo Courier
Original price: £33,690
After grant: £29,940
Why it stands out: A spacious five-seat MPV with up to 2162 litres of cargo space and a 177-mile range. Perfect for families who need room to stretch out.
Ford Puma Gen-E
Original price: £28,999
After grant: £25,249
Why it stands out: Compact, fun to drive, and surprisingly roomy. With a 233-mile range and fast charging up to 100kW, it’s a solid all-rounder.
Band Two – £1,500 Discount
Citroën ë-C3
Original price: £22,095
After grant: £20,595
Why it stands out: Affordable, comfortable, and packed with tech like Apple CarPlay and heated seats. The 199-mile range is decent for city driving.
Citroën ë-C3 Aircross
Original price: £23,095
After grant: £21,595
Why it stands out: A larger, SUV-style version of the ë-C3, with seven seats and a 247-mile range.
Citroën ë-C4 and ë-C4 X
Original price: £27,650–£28,715
After grant: £26,150–£27,215
Why they stand out: Spacious, comfortable, and with a 257-mile range. The ë-C4 X adds extra boot space for families.
Citroën ë-C5 Aircross
Original price: £34,065
After grant: £32,565
Why it stands out: A big, well-equipped SUV with a 322-mile range—ideal for long journeys.
Cupra Born
Original price: £35,690
After grant: £34,190
Why it stands out: Sporty handling, comfortable ride, and a class-leading 360-mile range.
Nissan Ariya
Original price: £35,000
After grant: £33,500
Why it stands out: Nissan slashed the price by £6,000 to qualify for the grant. Offers up to 310 miles of range and a premium feel.
Peugeot e-208 and e-2008
Original price: £30,150–£35,400
After grant: £28,650–£33,900
Why they stand out: Stylish, efficient, and practical. The e-208 is a great city car, while the e-2008 SUV is perfect for families.
Renault 5
Original price: £22,995
After grant: £21,495
Why it stands out: Retro-inspired design, fun to drive, and up to 250 miles of range. One of the most anticipated EVs of the year.
Skoda Elroq
Original price: £31,710
After grant: £30,210
Why it stands out: Versatile and capable, with an 82kWh battery and up to 356 miles of range.
Toyota bZ4X
Original price: £36,995
After grant: £35,495
Why it stands out: Only the entry-level Pure model qualifies, but it offers a 318-mile range and plenty of tech.
Vauxhall Corsa Electric
Original price: £27,505
After grant: £26,005
Why it stands out: Former UK bestseller, now with a 223-mile range (or 256 miles with the bigger battery).
Volkswagen ID 3
Original price: £32,350
After grant: £30,850
Why it stands out: Efficient, comfortable, and with up to 352 miles of range in the Pro S Essential trim.
Are There Any Hidden Downsides or Limitations?
While the grant is a game-changer for many buyers, it’s not without its quirks. Some models, like the Skoda Enyaq, sneak in above the £37,000 threshold but still qualify due to shared underpinnings with eligible cars. Others, like the Citroën ë-SpaceTourer, offer limited range (just 136 miles) but make up for it with massive passenger capacity—great for city taxis or shuttle services.
It’s also worth noting that the grant only applies to new cars, not used models. And as manufacturers update their lineups, the list of eligible vehicles can change quickly. Always double-check with the dealer before you commit.
How Does This Compare to Other Countries’ Incentives?
The UK’s ECG is one of the more generous schemes in Europe, especially for mainstream models. According to the International Energy Agency, financial incentives are a major driver of EV adoption, with countries like Norway and Germany also offering substantial support. However, the UK’s focus on sustainability and manufacturing emissions sets it apart, pushing carmakers to clean up their supply chains as well as their vehicles.
What Should You Consider Before Making the Switch?
Price is important, but it’s not the only factor. Think about your daily driving habits. If you rarely do long journeys, a smaller battery (and a lower price) might suit you just fine. If you need to cover big distances, look for models with 250+ miles of range and fast-charging capability.
Don’t forget to factor in running costs, either. According to the RAC, charging an EV at home can cost as little as 8p per mile, compared to 14p per mile for a petrol car. Maintenance is typically cheaper too, since EVs have fewer moving parts.
And if you’re worried about charging infrastructure, the UK now has over 60,000 public charging points, with rapid chargers popping up at supermarkets, service stations, and even some workplaces. The network is growing fast, so range anxiety is becoming less of an issue every year.
Is Now the Right Time to Buy an Electric Car?
With the ECG in place and a growing list of eligible models, there’s never been a better time to make the switch. Prices are more competitive, technology is improving rapidly, and the government is clearly committed to supporting EV buyers. If you’ve been sitting on the fence, this might just be the nudge you need.
The bottom line? The Electric Car Grant is making EVs more accessible than ever. Whether you’re after a city runabout, a family SUV, or something with a bit of flair, there’s a discounted electric car out there with your name on it. Just remember to do your homework, check the latest eligibility lists, and take a few test drives before you decide. The future of driving is electric—and it’s finally within reach.