With fuel costs at record levels, driving a combustion-engined car is becoming expensive. Switching to an electric vehicle could bring genuine savings, especially for drivers able to charge at home and take advantage of low off-peak electricity rates.
While many new EVs command a premium, the used market offers the chance to drive an EV for less. The Press Association's motoring expert Jack Evans has selected seven of the best options available today for under £30,000.
Kia e-Niro and Tesla Model 3
The Kia e-Niro is an excellent all-rounder. It is a practical crossover with a large boot and plenty of interior storage options. Like other Kia models, it comes with lots of equipment, including heated seats in largely all specifications. Depending on the model, it can deliver up to 282 miles from a single charge, and a top charge speed of 77kW means a 10 to 80 per cent charge takes around 45 minutes.
The Tesla Model 3 is routinely one of the best-selling cars in the UK each month, and this popularity means plenty of choice in the used market. Jack found many options for under £30,000, and at this price point, buyers get a car without too many miles on the clock. The large-battery version can manage more than 300 miles of range, while a 10 to 80 per cent charge should take under 30 minutes. Tesla's Supercharger network, located throughout the UK, is also available.
Jaguar I-Pace and Volkswagen ID.4
The Jaguar I-Pace was a true luxury car when new and commanded a high price tag. On the used market, it is a temptingly priced option, bringing that high-end finish in a package that still looks great today. It has a range of up to 292 miles, and a maximum charge speed of 100kW means a 10 to 80 per cent charge can be done in under half an hour.
The Volkswagen ID.4 faced some criticism when released, but this was largely centred on the early infotainment system, which has since been updated and improved. Today, it is one of the best-value used EVs around, offering bags of space and a large, useful boot. Latest versions can achieve more than 340 miles of range, though earlier versions will still manage around 270. A 10 to 80 per cent charge can be completed in under 30 minutes.
BMW i4, Hyundai Kona Electric and MG4 EV
From the outside, the BMW i4 does not scream 'EV'. With its svelte looks and low-slung position, it has all the hallmarks of a classic German saloon car. It is an electric model that will manage around 365 miles on a charge. One of its benefits is how it drives: from behind the wheel, it has the same weighted, sporty approach found in many BMW vehicles, making it one of the more 'normal-to-drive' cars here.
The Hyundai Kona Electric is similar in design to the Kia e-Niro. It launched with a series of powertrains, both electrified and petrol, but the full EV feels like the best of the bunch. Versions with a large battery should get up to 300 miles. Inside, the Kona Electric is well-made and features lots of funky styling touches, backed by practicality and a good deal of interior storage space.
The MG4 EV was the car that sent MG into the electric vehicle mainstream. Despite having been on sale for a while, its styling still looks current, and on the used market it is a great option for drivers looking to bring down costs. Up to 281 miles from a charge means it is still good for long-distance trips, and a 150kW charging capacity means less time standing around at the charger.
