How to encourage your workforce to adopt your EV salary sacrifice scheme

Did you know that more than a third of employees don’t see the value in the current benefits package on offer by their employer? Most have never even used them.

Our research shows that even when companies offer great perks, if employees don’t know what’s available, or how to make the most of them, those benefits go unused.

And that’s especially true when it comes to electric vehicle (EV) salary sacrifice schemes. Ours saves your employees thousands on an EV while accelerating your sustainability journey. But if your team doesn’t understand how it works, or what’s in it for them, it’ll just sit on the shelf like last year’s gym discount.

So how do you not only make your workforce aware of your EV salary sacrifice scheme, but get them excited about it? Let’s break it down.

A good place to start is the simple question every employee will ask: what’s in it for me?

This is where it gets exciting. Through salary sacrifice, employees can lease a brand-new or nearly-new EV using their gross salary, meaning they save on Income Tax and National Insurance. In real terms, that could be up to 40% off the cost of an EV. With no deposit, no haggling, and one all-inclusive monthly cost covering the car, charger installation, insurance, servicing and more, it’s one of the most affordable and hassle-free ways to go electric.

But the benefits don’t stop with your team. For employers, an EV scheme can boost retention, attract top talent, and show that you’re genuinely investing in your people’s financial wellbeing and future. It’s also a big sustainability win. Helping your workforce make the switch to electric transport is a visible, measurable way to lower your carbon footprint and align with your wider CSR strategy.

Of course, none of that happens automatically. You need a clear plan to help employees understand the scheme and feel confident opting in. Here are five easy steps to get you started.

1. Start with communication. Create simple, clear materials that explain how the scheme works, what the benefits are, and how to sign up. Avoid jargon; think short guides, FAQs, even videos or webinars that walk through the process. Use your intranet, internal emails, and team briefings to get the word out, and make it easy for people to ask questions or speak to someone if they’re unsure.
2. Talk money. Show real-life examples of what employees could save through tax breaks and how the total cost of ownership compares to running a petrol or diesel car. When people can see the numbers, they’re much more likely to engage. It’s also worth explaining the Benefit-in-Kind (BIK) tax for EVs, which are far lower than for traditional cars. This can tip the scales even further in favour of switching.
3. Don’t forget the power of purpose. For many employees, especially younger generations, environmental impact really matters. Show them how switching to an EV helps cut carbon and supports your company’s sustainability goals. And if you’ve got a broader CSR strategy, make sure your EV scheme is proudly part of it.
4. Let them feel it. Our EV experts are happy to join your benefits showcase days to talk to your employees about how the scheme works. They’ll even help arrange test drive days or demo events where employees can get behind the wheel and experience an EV for themselves. The more real you make it, the more likely they are to say yes.
5. Find your champions. One of the most effective tools of all is word of mouth. If someone in the business is already loving their EV through the scheme, invite them to share their story. Whether it’s a quote in a newsletter, a video testimonial, or a chat at the next team meeting, nothing beats hearing from a peer who’s been through it.

Even the best scheme can raise questions, so be ready to answer them with clarity and confidence. Common concerns often focus on finances. Be transparent about how the scheme affects take-home pay and explain clearly how the salary sacrifice works. Reassure employees that this isn’t a loan or credit agreement; it’s a benefit.

Others might be worried about practicality. Do EVs have enough range? Will they be able to charge it easily? Give realistic, reassuring answers. Many of today’s EVs easily cover daily commuting distances, and the UK’s public charging infrastructure is growing fast. If your business is offering any extra support, like access to charging networks or reimbursement for electricity costs, make that front and centre.

The chart shows the distribution of cash savings across all the scenarios analysed including 15 new, 35 used, and different ownership models for new cars, along with 3 different mileages. It compares drivers who charge mostly at home with those who rely solely on public chargers.

Finally, make sure you focus on the flexibility of the scheme. Explain the lease terms, what happens at the end of the contract, and what’s in place if an employee leaves the business or has a change in circumstances.

If you’re just getting going, consider launching a pilot scheme with a smaller group of employees. It’s a great way to test your communications, iron out any hiccups, and gather feedback. Create a channel for people to share their experiences and suggestions; it helps you improve and gives others more confidence to join.

Once things are up and running, keep the momentum going. Our HR dashboard makes it easy to track everything in one place – from how many people are taking part to how much carbon you’ve helped save. Share regular updates on new vehicle options, improvements, or changes to the scheme. The more visible and dynamic it feels, the more likely your employees are to get involved.

EV salary sacrifice schemes tick so many boxes: cost-saving, sustainable, high-impact, low-effort. But like any benefit, the real magic lies in how you bring it to life for your team.

So don’t let a great scheme gather dust. Communicate it clearly. Champion it internally. Make it easy, accessible, and inspiring. And you’ll not only boost take-up; you’ll build a more loyal, motivated, and future-focused workforce along the way.