Electric vehicles (EVs) are now mainstream. Their purchase costs are dropping thanks to wider adoption and better technology. But can they work effectively as a taxi or private hire vehicle?
There are many benefits for drivers who make the switch to electric. Of course, you’ll be making a positive impact on the environment, but the cash savings you make on running costs—fuel, tax and maintenance—are eye-wateringly good.
For example, we have calculated that the Dynamo Hackney EV will save you £17k+ over five years, compared to a standard diesel
A regular fully electric car like the MG EV will cost you a quarter or less of what a traditional petrol or diesel car on a cost per mile basis. For working drivers, these savings simply cannotPurchase cost
You need to look at the long term to see why EVs offer excellent returns for professional drivers. Look at the purchase cost of course (there is a variety in purchase price depending on manufacturer, model, specification and so on) but consider the lifetime savings you’ll make. And now there is a growing choice for the taxi trade as shown on our range of electric and hybrid vehicles. be ignored.
Maintenance is cheap
The price of EVs may seem be similar to petrol or diesel vehicles (and indeed sometimes higher at the luxury end of the market) but running costs are massively lower when you consider the vehicle’s lifetime.
The Government is committed to EVs. It has to be in order to meet its climate change targets for improving air quality in major cities. That’s why there are decent tax incentives and juicy government grants available to EV owners.
EVs cars are made to be mechanically efficient and have just three main components: an on-board charger, an inverter and a motor. With fewer moving parts than a combustion engine drivetrain, there is way less wear and tear on the vehicle. The result? Fewer service requirements and minimal repair costs.
In summary
When you factor in:
- Government support (grants and taxi breaks above)
- The relatively low cost of electricity as a fuel compared to petrol or diesel
- The reduced maintenance with an EV
The financial benefits are there for all to see.
This is the first in a short series on electric vehicles and the taxi trade.
For an introduction to the new and used vehicles we supply call 01525 717695 or email us