Why EVs are awesome cars for new drivers who've just passed their test

Someone you know has their driving test coming up? Thinking about the next steps, if they successfully navigate the three-point turn under the cold, watchful gaze of your local driving examiner? 

We know. Back in the day, it was Mum’s old Nissan Micra/Honda Civic/Ford KA or nothing, but times have moved on. If you are considering treating a loved one to their first set of wheels, here’s why an EV is the way to go – it might be more affordable than you think! 

EVs are automatic – you put your foot down and you go. No break point. 

That’s one less thing for new drivers to worry about as they navigate the roads solo for the first time. Yes to the freedom to go wherever you choose; no to stalling at traffic lights in front of all your mates. 

When it comes to driver assist packages, EVs are where it’s at – manufacturers are pouring investment into EV cabin tech. The result: cars with strong safety ratings ideal for those navigating the roads solo for the first time. 

So, as well as safety features that are more or less standard at this point, such as blind spot monitoring and lane assist - new drivers can benefit from automated parking, adaptive cruise control, and savvier driver monitoring features. 

There’s nothing wrong with wanting a car that looks cool. This isn’t just teenage frivolity – we all still make car decisions based on aesthetics. If you’ve ever dismissed a model as ‘too ugly’ when car shopping, you’ll understand where we’re coming from. 

Even at the most affordable end of the market, today’s EVs blow the competition out of the water, style-wise. Opt for the retro chic of the Renault 5, the sleek, futuristic BYD Dolphin, the revamped classic Nissan Micra, and much more. 

In 2025, filling a 50-litre petrol tank will cost around £70 per go – quite an expense for anyone! 

Meanwhile, if you’re on a smart EV tariff like Intelligent Octopus Go, you could charge a small EV’s battery from empty to full for as little as £3.00. And with EV Saver (an exclusive discount for Octopus EV drivers), you're spending less money on fuel, which means more money for enjoying their newfound independence. 

People today are more eco-conscious than ever. So, what better gift on passing their driving test than an EV, which will produce significantly lower emissions over the course of its lifetime (from manufacture to retirement)?

If you’re looking to go even greener (and save some cash at the same time), you could take a look at our approved used EVs – all valeted spotless, with many more miles of good driving left on the clock. 

When you lease your EV with Octopus, you’ll get more than a set of wheels on your driveway. 

Intelligent EV is a personal leasing scheme that can offer everything new drivers need for an EV, all in one affordable monthly payment. And by joining the Intelligent Family, you’ll get:

• A choice of the latest, smartest EVs, as picked by our experts
• Cheap home charging and energy savings via Intelligent Octopus Go and EV Saver
• 10% discount on all public charging with the Electroverse
• Servicing, maintenance, and road tax included 
• £500 off green home tech