With fuel prices on the rise, more drivers are thinking about going electric

If filling up your car has started to feel noticeably more expensive, you’re not imagining it. For many households, every trip to the petrol station is putting a little more pressure on the budget.

In fact, according to the latest figures from the RAC, petrol and diesel prices have reached some of their highest levels in recent years, with many drivers spending close to £100 to fill an average family car.

It’s one of the reasons we’re seeing more customers than ever ask us about switching to an electric vehicle and how ScottishPower can help them save when it comes to charging at home.

Have you been at the petrol station recently to fill up your tank? Only to have found yourself shocked at the recent petrol and diesel prices. Chances are you’re not alone.

Why are more people considering an EV?

For many drivers, the biggest question isn’t whether electric vehicles are better for the environment. It’s whether they’re affordable to run. And when fuel prices are high, the difference can be significant.

Based on current average fuel costs, filling a typical 55-litre petrol tank costs around £96. By comparison, charging an electric vehicle for a similar distance can cost around £10 when using ScottishPower’s EV Optimise.¹

That means driving on electricity can cost as little as 2p per mile, compared to around 18p per mile for a petrol vehicle.²

It’s no surprise, then, that interest in EV charging and smart energy solutions is growing rapidly.

What is EV Optimise?

EV Optimise³ is a free smart charging solution available to eligible ScottishPower customers.

Instead of charging your car as soon as you plug it in, EV Optimise automatically schedules charging for times when electricity is cheaper and demand on the grid is lower.

Simply plug in, tell the app when you need your car ready by and by how much charge and get on with the more important stuff.

This means you could wake up to a charged car for less, without the hassle of manually managing your charging schedule.

How much could you save?

If you like the idea of an EV but still find yourself wondering if the numbers add up, that’s completely understandable. Changing your car is a big decision, and running costs are an important part of it.

While every driver’s mileage is different, the savings can add up quickly.

The exact amount you could save will be personal to you, depending on factors including:

But for many households, charging at home can be one of the cheapest ways to power a vehicle.

Other ways to save on EV charging

EV Optimise isn’t the only option available.

ScottishPower also offers:

EV Saver

Our EV Saver tariff⁴ gives eligible customers access to cheaper overnight electricity, helping them charge their vehicle for less during off-peak hours.

Home EV chargers

We also offer home EV charger installation across the UK, making it easier for customers to charge where it’s often most convenient and affordable, at home.

For eligible customers purchasing an EV charger bundle, charging rates can be even lower for a limited period - if you’re eligible, terms apply. Learn more about our charging bundle that can give you access to EV Optimise for as little as 6p per kWh.⁵

Thinking about making the switch?

Moving to an electric vehicle is a big decision, but for many people it’s becoming as much about saving money as it is about sustainability. Whether you already own an EV or you’re just curious about making the switch, exploring your charging options is a useful first step and charging at the right time could help make every mile more affordable.