Electric car sales in the UK have surged in 2026, with March recording the highest-ever monthly EV purchases. Sales of fully-electric vehicles rose 24 per cent compared to the same month last year, with nearly 90,000 units sold. This growth is driven by an expanding range of EV models and falling prices, as highlighted by the Independent EV Price Index.
The government's Electric Car Grant continues to offer discounts of £1,500 or £3,750 on eligible models, while manufacturers without qualifying vehicles have introduced their own discount schemes. Improved battery and motor technology mean modern EVs can travel up to 500 miles on a single charge and recharge to 80 per cent in under 20 minutes.
Budget-friendly options include the Leapmotor T03 at £15,995, or £175 per month with a small deposit. The upcoming Renault Twingo E-Tech, priced under £20,000, is expected in early 2027. Many brands offer substantial discounts, and Tesla provides low-rate finance to make monthly payments competitive with petrol or diesel models.
Our experts test cars in real-world conditions, considering factors like parking, shopping, child seats, infotainment, and driving on various roads. For 2026, we've compiled a list of the 10 best EVs covering every need and budget, plus advice on models to avoid.
When choosing an EV, consider battery size and range for your regular journeys, charging speeds, home charger installation, and warranty. The Kia EV3, starting at £32,995, offers a 58kWh battery with 270 miles range, or a larger battery for 375 miles. It is praised for its style, space, and driving comfort.
