Electric vehicle sales continue to beat expectations in the UK, with the latest figures showing a huge percentage increase in new electric vehicles purchased this year compared to 2021. And it looks like the wider population is following suit according to new data.
Search by JLR Essex showed that Google searches for the “best electric car for 2022” had increased by 5,000% as high petrol and diesel prices forced drivers to search for alternatives.
More used electric vehicles were sold in the UK in the first three months of 2022 than ever before, with sales of all used cars increasing by 5.1%.
But the most dramatic jump was in sales of used battery electric vehicles (BEVs), which run solely on electricity, jumping from 6,625 to 14,586 in the first three months of the year. an increase of 120.2% over the previous year.
Plug-in hybrids (PHEV) and hybrids (HEV), which together account for a larger share of the used car market, are also being sold in greater numbers, totaling just under 50,000 vehicles.
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Low tax charges
From April 2017, electric cars that cost more than £40,000 when new will incur an annual charge of £360 for the first five years. That’s still less than you’d pay on other non-electric cars in the same price range, which also incur charges based on CO2 emissions.
Health Benefits
Electric cars produce no tailpipe emissions, so they help improve air quality in built-up areas. Air pollutants are extremely dangerous and diesel engines specifically generate harmful particulate emissions. This can lead to serious respiratory problems such as asthma for residents of high traffic areas.
Quiet driving experience
Although not completely silent, electric cars are considerably quieter than standard petrol and diesel vehicles. They are also a pleasant riding experience, as they can give you full power almost instantly.
Practicality
Due to lack of engine, gearbox or exhausts; electric cars often have more room for passengers and luggage. Some electric cars even have luggage space under the hood, in addition to the traditional trunk.
