Cost to charge an electric car explained

The cost of charging an electric car in the UK can vary significantly, from economical home charging to higher rates at public rapid chargers. Understanding these differences is crucial for effectively managing your electric vehicle (EV) expenses.

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Understanding EV charging costs

The actual cost of charging an electric car depends heavily on where and how you charge. Home charging is generally the most cost-effective option, particularly when you can utilise cheaper off-peak electricity rates. Public charging networks offer convenience but typically come with higher per-kilowatt-hour (kWh) prices, especially for rapid and ultra-rapid chargers.

The basics of EV charging

Electric cars are powered by electricity, measured in kilowatt-hours (kWh). The cost to fully charge an EV depends on its battery capacity and the price per kWh you pay. All domestic electricity tariffs in the UK are quoted inclusive of 5% VAT.

Home charging: the most economical option

Charging at home is almost always the cheapest way to power your electric vehicle. This is because domestic electricity rates are typically lower than public charging tariffs, and you can often benefit from off-peak rates.

Standard home charging costs

For a typical UK household on a Standard Variable Tariff, the average electricity unit rate is around 26.32p per kWh (inclusive of 5% VAT, effective 1 October to 31 December 2026)^[1,2].

For example, if you charge an EV with a 60 kWh battery at this rate, the cost to fully charge would be approximately £15.79. If this charge provides 200 miles of range, the cost per mile would be around 7.9p.

Off-peak home charging with smart tariffs

Many energy suppliers offer smart tariffs designed for EV owners, which provide significantly cheaper electricity during off-peak hours (e.g., overnight). While Fuse Energy's specific EV tariff is a legacy product and no longer available for new customers from 1 July 2026, the principle of dual-rate variable tariffs remains a powerful way to reduce charging costs.

If you can charge your EV during an off-peak window at a lower rate, for instance, 10p per kWh, a 60 kWh charge would cost approximately £6.00. This would reduce the cost per mile to around 3p, demonstrating a substantial saving compared to standard rates. To take advantage of these tariffs, you'll typically need a smart meter or a compatible dual-rate meter. Fuse Energy can offer a free smart meter upgrade once your supply has switched in, if needed for eligible tariff options. You can learn more about understanding energy tariffs and how they can benefit you.

Public charging: convenience at a premium

Public charging networks offer flexibility for longer journeys or when home charging isn't an option. However, these services come at a higher price due to infrastructure, maintenance, and convenience.

Types of public chargers and their costs

• Slow/Fast chargers: Often found at workplaces, supermarkets, or lampposts. These typically offer charging speeds up to 7 kW, sometimes up to 22 kW. Costs are generally higher than home charging.
• Rapid chargers: Common at service stations and main roads, these offer faster charging speeds, typically from 50 kW upwards. Prices are usually significantly higher than Slow/Fast chargers.
• Ultra-rapid chargers: The fastest option, found on major routes, offering speeds of 150 kW and above. These are the most expensive public charging option.

Some networks also charge connection fees or per-minute rates, especially for older rapid chargers, so always check the pricing structure before you plug in.

Factors influencing your charging costs

Several factors can affect how much you pay to charge your electric car:

• Battery size: Larger batteries cost more to fill than smaller ones at the same unit rate.
• Charging speed: Faster public chargers (rapid/ultra-rapid) generally have higher per-kWh rates.
• Time of day: Off-peak home charging is significantly cheaper. Some public chargers also offer off-peak discounts.
• Network membership/subscriptions: Some public charging networks offer subscription plans that reduce the per-kWh cost.
• Car efficiency: Just like petrol cars, some EVs are more efficient than others, meaning they travel further on the same amount of electricity.
• Driving style: Aggressive driving, high speeds, and frequent acceleration/braking can reduce efficiency and increase consumption.

Calculating your EV's cost per mile

To accurately calculate your EV's cost per mile, you'll need:

1. Battery capacity (kWh): Found in your car's specifications.
2. Average electricity cost (£/kWh): This will be a blend of your home and public charging rates.
3. Real-World range (miles): How far your car actually travels on a full charge, which can differ from the manufacturer's stated range.

Formula: (Battery Capacity x Average Electricity Cost) / Real-World Range = Cost per Mile

For example, if your EV with a 60 kWh battery costs an average of £0.20/kWh to charge and gives you 200 miles of range, the calculation would be: (60 kWh x £0.20/kWh) / 200 miles = £12.00 / 200 miles = £0.06 or 6p per mile.

Strategies for reducing EV charging costs

1. Prioritise home charging: Make home charging your primary method, especially using off-peak tariffs.
2. Install a home EV charger: A dedicated home charger, like the Easee One offered by Fuse Energy, provides faster, safer, and more convenient charging. Fuse offers installation of the Easee One EV charger for £899, including full installation and a 3-year warranty. You can find out more about electric vehicle charging at home.
3. Explore OZEV grants: While the generic domestic grant for owner-occupiers in houses with off-street parking has been discontinued, specific OZEV grants are still available. The EV Chargepoint Grant for renters and flat owners provides up to £500 towards installing a chargepoint if you own and live in a flat or rent any residential property with private off-street parking. Similarly, the EV Chargepoint Grant for households with on-street parking offers up to £500 if you are installing a cross-pavement solution. Always check eligibility on the GOV.UK website, as the customer applies for the grant directly.
4. Optimise public charging: Use apps to compare prices across different networks and consider subscriptions if you frequently use a particular network.
5. Drive efficiently: Smooth acceleration, anticipating traffic, and maintaining moderate speeds can significantly improve your EV's efficiency.
6. Monitor your usage: Use your energy supplier's app (like the Fuse Energy app) to track your electricity consumption and identify opportunities for smarter charging. This can be particularly useful if you have a smart meter installation.

Understanding the various costs and factors involved in charging an electric car allows you to make informed decisions and enjoy the financial benefits of EV ownership. By leveraging home charging, smart tariffs, and efficient driving, you can significantly reduce your running costs.

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