7 reasons why you should get an EV in 2026

Considering going electric, but still not sure? 

With more EV models hitting showrooms, leaps in battery technology, and a huge public charging network that is set to expand even further, this year is shaping up to give you the best of what electric driving has to offer.

Here’s why 2026 might just be your perfect time to plug in.

Manufacturers are rolling new EV models off production lines in every shape and size. 

In 2026, we’re set for a huge diversification of EV makes and models as newer manufacturers such as Jaecoo and Omoda establish themselves in the UK. This means more innovation and more competition, with manufacturers offering more bang for your buck as a result. 

This is great news for those looking at the affordable end of the market, as more manufacturers announce more models available for under £25,000. 2025 saw the introduction of the Renault 5, the Nissan Micra, and the BYD Dolphin Surf – with plenty to follow in the year ahead.

Worried about range or charging times? 2026’s range of EVs should put your mind at ease. 

Thanks to a range of advances in battery tech (improvements to lithium ion batteries across the board, wider rollout of affordable LFP batteries, and more progress towards usable solid state batteries if you want to get geeky about things), EVs travel further and charge faster. 

The longest range EV – the BMW iX3 – has a listed range of 493 miles, whilst the average real range across the market sits at 237 miles. Meanwhile, charging a new EV at an ultrarapid roadside charger will typically take 18-25 minutes. 

Not only does this mean fewer pit stops on long trips, but it also improves overall battery health, helping your car maintain a higher capacity over the years.

Nothing derails an EV roadtrip like the fear of not finding a charger. The good news? In 2026, the public EV charging network is looking very healthy indeed. 

Councils across the UK have benefitted from Local Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (LEVI) Grants to drastically increase the availability of public chargers across both urban and rural locations. On top of this, there’s a push for more ultra-rapid charger availability – and there are currently 87,168 EV public EV chargers installed across the country. 

In other words, fuelling your electric car will become as straightforward as filling up with petrol – minus the fumes and noise. And, with the Electroverse app, you can plan your journeys around your charging needs with live info on charger location, pricing, and availability. 

Learn more about EV charging with our EV charging guide

The EV Grant Scheme was launched by the UK Government in summer 2025 – and was expanded in the November budget. 

Under the scheme, drivers can receive up to £3,750 off selected EVs that meet the eligibility criteria. You don’t have to do anything to claim the discount – it’s applied automatically on the price of your EV, or your monthly payments if you’re leasing. 

The grant is available on some of the year’s most popular models, including the Renault 5 E-Tech and the Ford Puma Gen E, making the switch to electric even more affordable! 

Looking to save a little more by opting for a used EV? 

You’re in luck – 2026 will bring more models to the used market than ever before. Those who first got an EV in 2021 or 2022 may be trading up to newer tech, meaning that recent models with plenty of battery life still in them will become readily available. 

For those looking at second-hand options, that translates to more variety and lower prices, alongside the reassurance that EV batteries tend to hold capacity for at least 10 years. 

We have a lot of approved used EVs available - you'll spot them on our be

In 2026, EV ownership isn’t about figuring things out by yourself. 

There’s now an entire EV support system in place, from dedicated service centres that know electric drivetrains inside and out, to insurers that understand the nuances of battery cover.

EV leasing and salary sacrifice schemes options are also readily available, allowing you to avoid hefty upfront payments, access useful support services, and upgrade to the latest tech every few years.

Many localities are chasing ambitious environmental targets by introducing low-emissions zones (LEZ) and ultra-low-emissions zones (ULEZ) in busy urban areas. 

And, whilst EVs will no longer be exempt from the London Congestion Charge, they are still exempt from ULEZ/LEZ zones across the country – you’ll save a significant amount of money by opting for an EV if you’re a regular driver. 

With the UK Government looking to phase out the sale of new petrol and diesel cars by 2035, now’s a great time to switch to make sure you’re ahead of the technology. 

Whether you’re eyeing a brand-new car or waiting for a gently used gem, there’s never been a better time to make the switch to an EV. 

If you want to know more about life with an EV, head over to our Living With Your EV Hub for tips, advice, and all the latest news. 

Or, if you’re ready to make the leap, check out our wide range of EVs available.