5 CSR benefits of EV salary sacrifice schemes

Corporate social responsibility (CSR) is more important than ever. From small startups to major employers, more companies than ever are stepping up their CSR game. One way to lead the charge is with an EV salary sacrifice scheme. These schemes don’t just make EVs accessible to employees, but they also showcase your company’s commitment to a greener, happier future.

Intrigued? Let’s dive into five key CSR benefits of EV salary sacrifice.

An EV salary sacrifice scheme isn’t just a great perk for employees - it’s a smart move for your business too. It shows you’re serious about sustainability, boosts your reputation, and positions your company as an eco-conscious leader, which is a win for sustainability-savvy stakeholders.

Expectations are higher than ever. Employees, customers, and investors aren’t just looking for businesses that talk about sustainability - they want to see real action. Supporting EV adoption shows you’re not just ticking a box - you’re actively investing in a greener future and making a genuine commitment to positive change.

• Stronger brand loyalty - Companies with solid CSR practices often enjoy higher customer retention and greater trust from stakeholders.
• Greater investor appeal – A Deloitte study found that 37% of investors consider ESG (environmental, social, and governance) factors a key part of their investment decisions. Prioritising sustainability doesn’t just look good – it makes financial sense, too.

Encouraging employees to switch to EVs is a real, measurable way to cut emissions, stay ahead of government mandates, and align with global climate goals - a win-win (win).

How does an EV salary sacrifice scheme help the environment?

• Lower greenhouse gas emissions - EVs produce zero tailpipe emissions, and for each EV on the road, it will save 1.5 tonnes of Co2 per year (the equivalent of 770 trees planted)
• Demonstrates measurable impact - Companies can track and report emissions saved through EV salary sacrifice
• Supports national net-zero targets and reduces Scope 3 emissions - The UK Government’s pledge to reach net zero by 2050 relies on widespread EV adoption. And as employee commutes make up a significant chunk of corporate carbon footprints, an EV can help cut these indirect emissions.

EV salary sacrifice schemes do more than help the planet – they also improve financial wellbeing and make sustainability more accessible for employees.

Key benefits for employees:

• Saves them money - Employees can save exponentially, thanks to pre-tax salary deductions that lower expenses on a car, energy, maintenance, and taxes.
• Greater access to green technology - Salary sacrifice makes EVs affordable for more employees, removing financial barriers to sustainable transport.
• Health benefits - Cleaner air from reduced vehicle emissions improves air quality, particularly in urban areas.
• Feel-good factor - Employees gain personal satisfaction from making eco-conscious choices, which can strengthen their emotional connection to your company.
• It’s simple - having an EV salary sacrifice scheme, like Octopus EV's salary sacrifice scheme, can make life much simpler - no worries or stress of thinking about insurance, tyre replacements, or maintenance - it’s all covered within one monthly pre-tax payment.
  

Sustainable benefits are a powerful recruitment and retention tool, especially among Millennials and Gen Z, who prioritise working for companies with strong environmental and social values.

Why it matters:

• Competitive hiring advantage - According to a 2024 study, 53% of employees desire more sustainability-focused benefits, such as electric vehicle schemes and sustainable pensions, with this interest rising to 66% among workers aged 18 to 34.
• Enhanced employer branding - Showcasing leadership in sustainability helps differentiate your organisation and attract eco-conscious talent.

How to maximise impact:

Make EV salary sacrifice a key part of your employer brand. Highlight it in job descriptions, career pages, and onboarding materials to communicate your commitment to sustainable growth.

CSR isn’t just about internal benefits - it’s also about how your company contributes to the wider community. By promoting EV adoption, you can actively improve the quality of life where your business operates.

Key social benefits:

• Cleaner air - Reduced emissions lead to better air quality in cities and towns, benefiting local residents.
• Less noise pollution - EVs are significantly quieter than traditional vehicles, creating a more peaceful environment.
• Community engagement - Partnering with local organisations or councils to install charging stations extends your impact beyond your workforce.

Implementing an EV salary sacrifice scheme is a simple yet powerful way to embed sustainability into your company’s DNA. From reducing emissions to boosting employee wellbeing, the benefits go well beyond the bottom line.

Why not take the first step today? Join forward-thinking businesses like Octopus EV in driving meaningful change – one electric car at a time.