The Government's Electric Car Grant (ECG) scheme, which launched in 2025 to make electric vehicles more affordable, has been significantly expanded and now covers over 40 different models. For motorists looking to switch to greener transport, this presents a substantial opportunity to save thousands of pounds on their next car purchase.
How the Electric Car Grant Scheme Works
The ECG operates through two main tiers, with the majority of eligible vehicles falling into Band 2. These models qualify for reductions of up to £1,500, which are automatically deducted at the point of purchase, eliminating the need for separate grant applications.
Premium Discounts for Select Models
Several vehicles sit within the more advantageous Band 1 category, enjoying an even greater discount of up to £3,750. Eight models currently feature in this premium bracket, including the recently added Nissan LEAF, which joined the programme in November.
The full list of Band 1 vehicles includes:
- Citroën ë-C5 Aircross Long Range
- Ford E-Tourneo Courier
- Ford Puma Gen-E
- MINI Countryman Electric
- Nissan LEAF
- Renault 4
- Renault 5 (52 kWh)
- Renault Alpine A290
Nissan LEAF: A Standout Addition
Priced from £32,249 including the grant, the Nissan LEAF represents particularly good value within the scheme. The vehicle boasts an impressive range of up to 386 miles and can power up from 20% to 80% in just 30 minutes.
Production was scheduled to begin at Nissan's Sunderland facility from December, utilising the plant's 6,000-strong workforce. This development represents a significant boost for manufacturing in the North East, supporting regional jobs while advancing the UK's electric vehicle industry.
Government and Industry Response
Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander commented on the inclusion of the Nissan LEAF: "Nissan helped pioneer early EV ownership through the original Leaf, so it is great to see them join our drive to make going electric cheaper and more accessible for families."
James Taylor, Nissan GB Managing Director, added: "We're absolutely delighted to be able to confirm LEAF's pricing at £32,249 including the electric car grant, which will deliver an accessible route to EV ownership for our customers."
Eligibility Criteria and Scheme Impact
To qualify for the funding, vehicles must generally be M1 passenger cars, emit zero exhaust fumes, and provide at least 100 miles (160 km) of battery range. They must also meet minimum sustainability criteria and fulfil various additional Government stipulations.
The scheme's impact has been substantial since its launch in July 2025, with more than 35,000 drivers already taking advantage of the grant to switch to electric vehicles. Recent figures suggest electric car purchases now account for one in every four new car sales, indicating growing consumer adoption of cleaner transport options.
Complete List of Eligible Vehicles
The ECG scheme now covers 44 vehicles in total: 36 Band 2 models and eight Band 1 models. The comprehensive list includes popular makes from multiple manufacturers, providing consumers with considerable choice across different vehicle types and price points.
Band 2 vehicles, eligible for discounts of up to £1,500, include models from Citroën, Cupra, DS, Hyundai, Kia, Nissan, Peugeot, Renault, Skoda, Toyota, Vauxhall, and Volkswagen.
This expansion of the Electric Car Grant represents a significant step in making electric vehicle ownership more accessible to British families while supporting domestic manufacturing and contributing to environmental sustainability goals.
