Every eligible car for the electric car grant
The new Electric Car Grant could cut up to £3750 off the price of a new EV. While precise eligibility is still to be determined, here are the cars which could be eligible...
For the first time since 2022, the Government has introduced a new electric car grant to lower the price of many new EVs. Part of a £650 million scheme that hopes to support the withdrawal of new petrol and diesel cars from the UK market by 2030, the grant will see the Government offer a discount of up to £3750 on any new electric model with a list price of £37,000 or less.
While being introduced from 16 July, the Government has yet to disclose the exact eligibility requirements of the electric car grant, which will be based on sustainability criteria. Each car priced up to £37,000 will fall into one of two bands, with ‘band one’ receiving the full £3750 discount and ‘band two’ securing a £1500 reduction.
The scheme also covers more expensive trim levels that have a retail price of as much as £42,000, providing there is a version of the car with the same battery and power set-up at a retail price of less than £37,000.
So far, the Government has only confirmed that cars from a handful of companies, including Citroën, Nissan and Vauxhall, will be eligible for the grant.
That means our list below is a 'best guess' until the precise requirements are revealed, but shines a light on the kind of models which could be eligible for the grant. We will continue to update this page as more details emerge.
The scheme will run until the 2028/29 financial year – by which time the Government hopes 52% of all new cars sold in the UK will be fully-electric.
However, without knowing which discount each EV will qualify for, there could be a slump in sales of electric models. In an exclusive What Car? survey, we found that 21% of UK electric car buyers said they are now delaying their purchase until more details of the discount are known.
In a bid to maintain demand for electric cars, some companies have introduced temporary discounts which reduce their EVs to the price buyers will likely pay with the grant in place.
While the details of the scheme have yet to be revealed, there are more than 50 electric cars with a list price of less than £37,000, meaning thousands of new car buyers should be able to benefit. Here, we list all of the electric cars costing up to £37,000 – including a speculative new price that’s based on the full £3750 discount – and share whether they’re worth your attention (and money).
SUVs
Abarth 600e
List price from £35,475
Potential price after grant from £33,225
While the top-spec Scorpionissima model is slightly too expensive to be eligible for the grant, the entry-level Abarth 600e offers a fun driving style and a 237bhp electric motor accelerating the SUV from 0-62mph in 6.2sec. The 600e also benefits from sharp handling; however, you can feel the weight of the batteries when cornering at speed. The entry-level 600e is well-equipped for the money but feels cheap compared with the Mini Aceman JCW.
While information surrounding what cars will be eligible for the Government’s grant are still scarce, retail customers can benefit from a £1500 manufacturer’s discount on the 600e.
Read our Abarth 600e review
Alfa Romeo Junior Elettrica
List price from £32,405
Potential price after grant from £30,155
Alfa Romeo’s first electric car, the Junior Elettrica appeals thanks to its fun driving style. The steering is well-weighted and quick while the body doesn’t lean as much as a Jeep Avenger Electric, Peugeot e-2008 or Volvo EX30. All Junior Elettricas use a 50.8kWh battery, which gives the majority of versions an official range of 255 miles, although the sporty Veloce can only cover 200. Both figures are reasonable but by no means class-leading. The Junior Elettrica’s interior offers a good driving position; however, there’s lots of cheap plastic on show and leg room is tight in the back. The 400-litre boot helps to make the Junior Elettrica more practical than the Cupra Born and Smart #1, though.
With the Government yet to share some details surrounding the grant, Alfa Romeo has temporarily lowered the list price of all Junior Elettricas by £1500. The deal will run until 1 January 2026.
Read our Alfa Romeo Junior Elettrica review
Citroën ë-C3 Aircross
List price from £22,095
Price after grant from £20,595
Closely related to the new Vauxhall Frontera, the Citroën ë-C3 Aircross is a surprisingly affordable electric SUV. Just like the smaller ë-C3, all models use a 44kWh (usable capacity) battery and 111bhp motor, providing acceptable performance but an official range of just 188 miles – something rivals like the Ford Puma Gen-E and MG4 can easily better. Nevertheless, while the interior uses a lot of hard plastics, there’s plenty of room for five and a particularly impressive 460-litre boot.
Citroën is the first car brand to confirm their eligibility under the Government’s grant – cutting £1500 off the ë-C3 Aircross’ list price.
Read our Citroën ë-C3 Aircross review
DS 3 E-Tense
List price from £36,995
Potential price after grant from £35,495
An upmarket small electric SUV that rivals the Hyundai Kona Electric, Jeep Avenger and Kia EV3, the DS 3 E-Tense uses a 50.8kWh (usable capacity) battery to achieve a reasonable official range of 248 miles. While the DS 3’s 0-62mph acceleration time of 9.0sec isn’t the fastest in its class, it keeps up with motorway speeds. Soft suspension helps the DS 3 soak up lumps and bumps in the road but results in a floaty feeling on country roads. Even so, the DS 3 is especially quiet at high speed. Rear passengers will be short on leg room and the boot isn’t particularly big, though.
The Government has confirmed that the DS 3 is eligible for the lower band of the EV grant, saving drivers £1500.
Read our DS 3 E-Tense review
Fiat 600e
List price from £27,535
Potential price after grant from £25,285
One key perk to the Fiat 600e is its affordability – being cheaper than rivals like the Hyundai Kona Electric, Kia Niro EV and Vauxhall Mokka Electric. With a 50.8kWh (usable capacity) battery and 154bhp motor fitted, all 600es have an official range of 254 miles and reasonable performance. In spite of the retro styling, the 600e is fairly well-equipped and has a modern interior, but the 360-litre boot is less than what the Niro EV offers.
Fiat is currently pre-empting the Government’s EV grant by offering a £1500 manufacturer’s discount to private customers who order a 600e.
Read our Fiat 600e review
Ford Puma Gen-E
List price from £29,905
Price after grant from £26,155
The all-electric version of one of the UK’s best-selling cars, the Ford Puma Gen-E has surprisingly punchy performance. The 165bhp electric motor takes the Puma Gen-E from 0-62mph in 8.0sec – helping it feel nippier than the Vauxhall Mokka Electric around town. Nevertheless, the weight of the batteries can be felt around corners and the ride quality is harsher than the Kia EV3 over bumps. The Puma Gen-E offers plenty of space for front passengers and both a 523-litre boot and 43-litre front storage area; however, rear occupants have limited space.
The Government has confirmed that the Puma Gen-E is the first car to qualify for the higher band of the EV grant, with drivers saving £3750. Under the Ford Power Promise, available until the end of September 2025, drivers can also get a free home chargepoint (worth £899), up to 10,000 miles of charging credit and five years of roadside assistance.
Read our Ford Puma Gen-E review
Hyundai Kona Electric
List price from £33,500
Potential price after grant from £31,250
Although not the most inspiring electric SUVs to drive, lacking composure when cornering at speed, the Hyundai Kona Electric is one of very few models eligible for the EV grant with a range of over 300 miles. Thanks to a 65.4kWh (usable capacity) battery, the entry-level Advance version covers an official range of 319 miles, whereas the 215bhp motor means the Kona is quicker off the mark than the Jeep Avenger and Peugeot e-2008. Although the Kona’s interior isn’t the most upmarket, its controls are user friendly and there’s enough room for five. If you’re looking for more equipment, the Kona Electric N Line is also eligible for the grant.
Private buyers can benefit from a £1500 manufacturer’s discount, which could suggest the Kona won’t be eligible for the full grant. The discount will run until 4 January 2026, by which time more information surrounding the Government’s grant should be available.
Read our Hyundai Kona Electric review
Jeep Avenger Electric
List price from £26,249
Potential price after grant from £26,249
Unlike the team of superheroes of the same name, the Jeep Avenger doesn’t really have a particular superpower – instead being a good all-rounder against rivals including the Hyundai Kona Electric, Smart #1 and Vauxhall Mokka Electric. All Avengers use a 154bhp electric motor, offering enough power to keep it feeling nippy in the city, although the 50.8kWh (usable capacity) battery officially offers 249 miles – less than the Kona Electric or Mokka. Although somewhat gloomy, the Avenger’s interior has plenty of front storage; however, most rivals offer more leg room for rear passengers.
While it’s currently unclear whether the Avenger Electric qualifies for the Government’s electric vehicle grant, Jeep is currently offering a £3750 manufacturer’s discount. The deal applies across the Avenger Electric range.
List price from £36,995
Potential price after grant from £33,245
Produced in South Korea by the carmaker previously called Ssangyong, the KGM Torres EVX is a rugged-looking and reasonably priced alternative to the Kia EV6, Skoda Enyaq and Volkswagen ID 4. It’s certainly a practical car for the money, featuring a 703-litre boot and plenty of head and leg room in the rear. Nevertheless, the interior itself uses plush materials sparingly and the touchscreen is slow. A BYD-sourced 73.4kWh (usable capacity) battery offers a fair official range of 287 miles, although the ride is bumpier than most alternatives. Only the entry-level Torres EVX K30 is eligible for the grant.
Read our KGM Torres EVX review
Kia EV3
List price from £33,005 (£29,255 via finance)
Potential price after grant from £29,255
The Kia EV3 is one of our favourite small electric SUVs, and for good reason. You see, while the 55kWh (usable capacity) battery found in the entry-level EV3 offers a reasonable official range of 270 miles, the version with the larger 78kWh battery is also eligible for the EV grant. With all that extra charge, the EV3 can officially cover 375 miles – more than rivals including the Hyundai Kona Electric, Mini Aceman and Volvo EX30. Despite not being the most agile car around, the EV3 offers fair performance and a roomy interior to boot.
Until more information surrounding the Government’s grant is available, Kia is offering a discount of £3750 off the list price of the EV3 Air to private customers who finance the model via Kia Finance or a Personal Contract Purchase (PCP) agreement and place their order before 16 December 2025.
List price from £32,750
Potential price after grant from £32,750
Compared with rivals, like the Renault Scenic and Skoda Elroq, the Leapmotor C10 is competitively priced and particularly well-equipped. All C10s use a 69.9kWh (usable capacity) battery, for an official range of 263 miles, and a 210bhp motor – making it slightly quicker off the mark than the Scenic and Elroq. Despite the smooth ride quality, the C10’s driving style is somewhat let down by its overly-light steering and overly-sensitive safety systems. Nevertheless, there’s plenty of room for front and rear passengers.
Until the Government shares more information over which cars qualify for the full grant, Leapmotor is running a discount of £3750 off the list price of the C10. The deal applies to private customers who order a car before the end of December 2025, by which time it will likely be replaced with the Government’s grant.
Read our Leapmotor C10 review
MG S5
List price from £26,995
Potential price after grant from £24,745
Replacing the popular ZS EV, the MG S5 is a rival to the Kia EV3 and Skoda Elroq at a price that better matches the Jeep Avenger. With a 211-mile official range, the entry-level S5 isn’t quite as practical as most rivals, but the 298-mile capability of the more expensive Long Range model is superior to the Renault Scenic and even the larger Skoda Enyaq. Compared with the ZS EV, the S5 has better driving dynamics, but suffers from a very firm ride. There’s plenty of luggage space and rear leg room, though.
Pre-empting the Government’s grant, MG has cut £1500 off the list price of the S5 – plus a further £1000 if you test drive one – until the end of December 2025. This would suggest the S5 won’t qualify for the full £3750 grant.
List price from £28,905
Potential price after grant from £25,155
Compared with rivals, like the Kia EV3 and Skoda Elroq, the Mini Aceman’s styling is certainly eye-catching. Its driving style is also decidedly go-kart-like and even the entry-level Aceman E is quicker off the mark than most rivals at its price – taking 7.9sec to accelerate from 0-62mph. Nevertheless, the 38.5kWh (usable capacity) battery only provides an official range of 192 miles. This can be increased to 258 miles with the sporty JCW model, though. While the Aceman grips the road around tight corners well, the firm ride can be fidgety and rear leg room could be better.
Read our Mini Aceman review
Mini Countryman Electric
List price from £33,005
Potential price after grant from £29,255
Mini by name, if not by nature, the Countryman Electric is the largest model in the brand’s range. Compared with premium alternatives, like the Audi Q4 e-tron and BMW iX1, the Countryman is entertaining to drive – even with the less powerful E setups that are eligible for the EV grant. Featuring a 201bhp motor, the Countryman E accelerates from 0-62mph in 8.6sec, although wind and road noise is audible at speed. There’s plenty of room for occupants front and rear, although a 460-litre boot isn’t up to scratch with the iX1.
Read our Mini Countryman Electric review
Nissan Ariya
List price from £35,000
Price after grant from £33,500
Nissan has cut the cost of its Ariya to qualify for the Government’s EV grant. That’s a good thing, because this rival to the Kia EV6, Skoda Enyaq and Tesla Model Y comes with plenty of standard equipment for the money. Two battery options are available, with the larger good for an official range of 330 miles, and three power choices. While the ride quality is reasonably comfortable and the light steering makes driving the Ariya about town easy, the EV6 and Enyaq feel more confident around corners.
The Government has confirmed the Ariya will qualify for the lower band of the electric car grant, meaning customers can save £1500. However, only the 63kWh versions of the Engage and Avance trim levels qualify for the grant.
Read our Nissan Ariya review
Omoda E5
List price from £33,055
Potential price after grant from £29,305
The first electric model to come from Omoda, which is owned by the Chinese automotive giant Chery, the E5 is a small SUV that faces rivals like the Ford Puma Gen-E, Jeep Avenger and Kia EV3. Both versions use a 61kWh (usable capacity) battery, which delivers an official range of 257 miles – better than the Avenger and Volvo EX30, but not as good as the EV3. With a 201bhp motor, the E5’s acceleration is quick off the mark; however, the steering is too light at speed and the ride quality could be smoother. The E5 has a smart and well-equipped interior, but limited space for rear passengers and a 380-litre boot mean there are more practical alternatives.
Read our Omoda E5 review
Peugeot e-2008
List price from £34,400
Price after grant from £33,900
The entry-level 47.7kWh (usable capacity) versions of the Peugeot e-2008 are both eligible for the Government’s EV grant and, like the electric hatchbacks in the company’s range, stand out from the crowd thanks to a classy interior. The e-2008 uses plenty of plush materials and has a considerable amount of standard equipment, but the Hyundai Kona Electric and Kia EV3 have better rear leg room. With the smaller battery fitted, the e-2008 has an official range of 271 miles (similar to most alternatives) while the soft suspension provides a comfortable ride.
The Government has confirmed that the Peugeot e-2008 qualifies for the lower band of the electric car grant, meaning drivers can save £1500.
Read our Peugeot e-2008 review
Renault 4
List price from £26,995
Price after grant from £25,495
Despite using the same mechanicals as the Renault 5, the equally retro Renault 4’s larger body means it's a much more practical car. While the Kia EV3 has more rear leg room, the 375-litre boot is better than the Vauxhall Mokka Electric and Volvo EX30. All models have the same 52kWh (usable capacity) battery found in the R5, which gives the Renault 4 an official range of 247 miles. The R4 is a smooth runner, but some wind noise can be heard when travelling at motorway speeds.
The Government has confirmed that the Renault 4 is eligible for the lower band of the EV discount, meaning you’ll be able to save £1500 off the list price.
Read our Renault 4 review
Renault Scenic
List price from £36,995
Price after grant from £35,495
A happy medium in size and price between small electric SUVs, such as the Hyundai Kona Electric and Kia Niro EV, and larger family electric SUVs, including the Ford Mustang Mach-E and Tesla Model Y, the Renault Scenic still offers plenty of passenger space and a decent 545-litre boot. All models get an 87kWh (usable capacity) battery, which is good for an official range of up to 381 miles. While the Model Y has punchier acceleration, the Scenic offers enough power and soft suspension to soak up bumps. Poor management of the regenerative braking does leave the brake pedal feeling spongy, though.
Like the Megane, R4 and R5, the Government has confirmed that the Renault Scenic qualifies for the lower band of the electric car grant – cutting the price by £1500.
Read our Renault Scenic review
Seres 3
List price from £29,881
Potential price after grant from £26,131
Made in China, the Seres 3 is an SUV akin to the Kia EV3 and Skoda Elroq. Two models are available, both of which are eligible for the EV grant, and feature a 51kWh (usable capacity) battery – resulting in a relatively poor official range of 205 miles. A 158bhp electric motor makes gives the Seres 3 a fair 0-62mph acceleration time of 8.9sec – about the same as the entry-level Elroq – however, the 318-litre boot is outclassed by most. We’ve yet to review this car, so can’t say how it drives.
Skoda Elroq
List price from £31,710
Potential price after grant from £27,960
One of our favourite small electric SUVs, the Skoda Elroq offers practicality at a very reasonable price. While the 85 Sportline and vRS versions of the Elroq aren’t eligible for the grant, there are still plenty of options to choose from. The entry-level 50SE uses a 52kWh (usable capacity) battery, the 60 Edition and 60SE L boost power up to 59kWh and the 85 Edition uses a 77kWh pack for an official range of 360 miles. Nevertheless, one of the main advantages to the Elroq is space, with rear passengers getting plenty of head and leg room.
The Government has confirmed that the Skoda Elroq qualifies for the lower band of the electric car grant, meaning a saving of £1500 compared with list price.
Read our Skoda Elroq review
Skywell BE11
List price from £33,245
Potential price after grant from £33,245
While the Skywell BE11 Standard Range is eligible for the EV grant, we still wouldn’t recommend it. In spite of an impressive 248-mile official range and a lengthy warranty, the BE11’s driving style is poor. The accelerator and brake pedals are sensitive, meaning it’s difficult to drive smoothly, while the steering is vague. Instead, we’d recommend considering rivals like the Renault Scenic and Skoda Elroq.
Read our Skywell BE11 review
Smart #1
List price from £27,460
Potential price after grant from £26,210
The product of a partnership between Smart and Chinese automaker Geely, the #1 is a well-rounded alternative to the Hyundai Kona Electric, Jeep Avenger Electric and Kia EV3. It’s not the cheapest electric SUV; however, the entry-level models are still quicker than most – accelerating from 0-62mph in just 5.8sec. It’s also very enjoyable to drive, helped by agile steering and a reasonable ride quality. The interior is high quality and offers a surprising amount of space for rear passengers, but the 323-litre boot is rather small.
Like a number of other manufacturers, Smart is pre-empting the Government’s grant by offering a £1500 discount across the #1 range. The discount is in addition to an existing offer of £2000 off (increasing to £3000 for the #1 Brabus) and will run until the end of December 2025.
List price from £32,460
Potential price after grant from £30,210
The Government’s £37,000 cap means only the entry-level Pro 49kWh version of the Smart #3 is expected to be eligible for the grant; however, it’s still a very competitive rival to more expensive coupe SUVs, such as the Peugeot e-3008, Skoda Enyaq Coupe and Volvo EC40. Power comes from a 268bhp electric motor, giving the #3 a 0-62mph acceleration time of 5.8sec – quicker than the more expensive Tesla Model Y. It’s refined, too, with a smooth ride and minimal noise at speed. It’s not the most efficient EV, though. With a 47kWh (usable capacity) battery, the entry level’s 202-mile official range is less than most rivals. There’s plenty of interior room, though.
While only the entry-level Smart #3 is expected to be eligible for the Government’s grant, the company is running their own discount of £1500 throughout the range until the end of December 2025. Buyers can also take advantage of a further £1000 discount (£2000 off a #3 Brabus).
Read our Smart #3 review
Suzuki e Vitara
List price from £26,249
Potential price after grant from £26,249
Suzuki might be late to the electric car party but the e Vitara is a decent rival to the Kia EV3 and Skoda Elroq. There’s a choice of either a 47.8kWh (usable capacity) or 59.8kWh battery – the larger of the two offering an official range of 267 miles and four-wheel drive. The soft suspension offers a comfortable ride, although some rivals offer better handling. Inside, there’s plenty of leg room for rear passengers, but a 310-litre boot is far from class-leading.
Until more information about which models qualify for the Government’s electric car grant, Suzuki has introduced a manufacturer’s discount of £3750, which is applicable across the e Vitara range until 31 December 2025. New e Vitaras will also come with a free Ohme home EV charger.
List price from £30,180
Price after grant from £28,680
The Vauxhall Mokka Electric is a sharp-looking small SUV that’s fitted with a surprising amount of equipment as standard. A 50.8kWh (usable capacity) battery is fitted to all models, offering an official range of 250 miles, whereas the 154bhp motor takes the Mokka from 0-62mph in 9.0sec – enough to keep up with traffic but not as good as a Kia EV3. While there’s enough storage space for your odds and ends, the 310-litre boot is relatively small and rear leg room is lacking.
In addition to a £1500 saving from the Government’s EV grant, Vauxhall is currently running a number of offers on their electric models. This includes a £1500 deposit contribution and the ‘Electric All In’ package, which includes £500 to go towards buying and fitting a home charger or for public charging, 10,000 miles of free home charging with Intelligent Octopus Go.
Read our Vauxhall Mokka Electric review
Vauxhall Frontera Electric
List price from £23,995
Price after grant from £22,495
While many electric cars are still more expensive than their combustion-engined counterparts, the entry-level Vauxhall Frontera Electric has (until this point) cost the same as the petrol version. With the grant, the Frontera is even better value in the face of the Ford Puma Gen-E and Jeep Avenger Electric. Entry-level models use a 44kWh (usable capacity) battery, whereas the more expensive options get the same 52.8kWh unit from the larger Mokka – giving the Frontera an official range of 249 miles. Front and rear leg room is decent and the 460-litre boot is larger than the Puma Gen-E’s.
The Government has confirmed the Frontera Electric qualifies for a £1500 discount from the EV grant, in addition to a number of discounts being offered by Vauxhall. These include a £1500 deposit contribution and the ‘Electric All In’ package, which includes £500 to go towards buying and fitting a home charger or to cover public charging, and 10,000 miles of free home charging with Intelligent Octopus Go.
Read our Vauxhall Frontera review
Vauxhall Grandland Electric
List price from £34,555
Price after grant from £33,055
Competing with some of the best electric SUVs on the market, such as the Kia EV6, Skoda Enyaq and Tesla Model Y, the Vauxhall Grandland Electric certainly seems good value for money on paper. As standard, all models get dual-zone climate control, a 10.0in touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, 19in alloy wheels and front and rear parking sensors. Currently, the entire Grandland Electric range uses a 73kWh (usable capacity) battery, which offers an official range of 325 miles – more than the equivalent Enyaq and Ford Mustang Mach-E can manage. A 210bhp motor gets the Grandland Electric from 0-62mph in a reasonable 9.0sec and the firm suspension keeps the body composed around bends, but the ride quality is rather harsh. While some rivals offer more rear leg room, there’s plenty of space for front passengers and an impressive 550-litre boot.
Under the Government’s electric car grant, drivers can save £1500 on a Grandland Electric. Vauxhall is also currently offering a £1500 deposit contribution and the ‘Electric All In’ package – which gives buyers £500 to go towards a home charger or public charging and 10,000 miles of free home charging.
Read our Vauxhall Grandland Electric review
Volkswagen ID 4
List price from £36,995
Price after grant from £35,495
The Volkswagen ID 4 is one of few electric family SUVs you'll find on this list, undercutting rivals including the Hyundai Ioniq 5, Kia EV6 and Tesla Model Y. That's certainly no bad thing, becuase the ID 4 offers a decent amount of head and leg room for five adults and a practical 543-litre boot. Both the 52kWh and 77kWh versions are eligible for the Government's EV grant, the latter of which can officially cover 347 miles – slightly less than the Ford Mustang Mach-E Extended Range or Kia EV6 84kWh. Even so, the ID 4 offers a comfortable ride and reasonably composed handling around tight bends.
The Government has confirmed that selected versions of the Volkswagen ID 4 are eligible for the lower band of the grant, giving buyers a £1500 discount.
Read our Volkswagen ID 4 review
Volkswagen ID 5
List price from £36,995
Price after grant from £35,495
The Volkswagen ID 4's slightly sleeker stablemate, the Volkswagen ID 5 mixes coupé styling with SUV practicality in order to rival the Skoda Enyaq Coupé and Volvo EC40. Buyers looking to take advantage of the Government's grant can choose either the 52kWh or 77kWh (usable capacity) version of the entry-level Match, the latter of which offers an official range of 344 miles. Like the ID 4, the ID 5's ride is reasonably comfortable and performance is punchy; however, the Hyundai Ioniq 5 has less wind noise at speed. What's more, while the sleek roofline means rear head room is limited, the ID 5 still manages to offer a spacious 549-litre boot.
The Volkswagen ID 5 Match qualifies for the lower band of the Government's electric car grant, meaning drivers can save £1500.
Read our Volkswagen ID 5 review
Volvo EX30
List price from £31,560
Potential price after grant from £29,310
Only the Single Motor Core and Single Motor Plus versions are eligible for the Government’s EV grant, but even in its most basic forms, the Volvo EX30 is a worthy alternative to the Hyundai Kona Electric and Kia EV3. With 268bhp, the Volvo EX30 Single Motor can accelerate from 0-62mph in 5.7sec; although the 49kWh (usable capacity) battery can only provide an official range of 209 miles. Still, the EX30’s interior feels rather upmarket and there’s a reasonable amount of space for rear passengers.
Much like Alfa Romeo, Kia and Leapmotor, Volvo is currently running a discount until more information about the Government’s EV grant is known. Private buyers who are financing an EX30 via Personal Contract Purchase (PCP) can get a £1500 discount on the list price across the range.
Read our Volvo EX30 review
Hatchbacks
Abarth 500e
List price from £28,475
Potential price after grant from £26,225
Whether you choose the hatchback or convertible, the Abarth 500e’s sharp handling and peppy acceleration makes it great fun in the city. Unfortunately, it’s not the most practical electric hot hatchback by any means, with limited rear legroom, a smaller boot than rivals and a limited range of 164 miles for the hatchback and 157 for the convertible. All models apart from the 500e Convertible Scorpionissima are covered by the grant.
As car companies await more information surrounding which models qualify for the grant, Abarth is running a £1500 discount for private customers.
Read our Abarth 500e review
Alpine A290
List price from £33,500
Potential price after grant from £29,750
The high-performance Alpine A290 is the sibling to our sibling to our reigning Car of the Year, the Renault 5 and is a good all-rounder for those looking for a relatively practical electric hot hatchback. Three versions of the A290 are eligible: the GT, GT Premium and GT Performance. The latter offers the best performance, accelerating from 0-62mph in 6.4sec, but all versions have predictable handling and sharp brakes. Like the Renault, rear leg room is limited for adults but a 226-mile official range is better than the Mini Cooper JCW and Abarth 500e.
Read our Alpine A290 review
BYD Dolphin
List price from £26,195
Potential price after grant from £22,445
A rival to the MG4, Renault 5 and Vauxhall Corsa Electric, all four versions of the BYD Dolphin are expected to be eligible for the £3,750 discount. With a 44.9kWh (usable capacity) battery and 94bhp motor, the entry-level Dolphin isn’t a particularly fast car, but it’s comfortable about town. There’s plenty of space for front and rear passengers alike and a handy 345-litre boot, but some touchscreen controls can be fiddly. A slow maximum charging speed means Dolphin owners will spend more time than most at the chargers.
Read our BYD Dolphin review
BYD Dolphin Surf
List price from £18,650
Potential price after grant from £14,900
Although slightly more expensive than the Dacia Spring and Leapmotor T03, the BYD Dolphin Surf is reasonably priced and has a long list of standard features. Three versions are available, with the mid-spec Boost version being our favourite thanks to its 200-mile range. The Dolphin Surf has a surprisingly good amount of rear leg room and larger boot than the Renault 5; however, the brake pedal can be grabby and wind noise is audible at high-speed.
Read our BYD Dolphin Surf review
Citroën ë-C3
List price from £22,095
Price after grant from £20,595
The Citroën ë-C3 focuses on offering simplicity and value, costing less than a Hyundai Inster or Renault 5. Both models are eligible for the EV grant, with the both featuring a 43.7kWh (usable capacity) battery – offering enough power for an official range of 199 miles. Unfortunately, the ë-C3 is slightly less fun to drive than most rivals, taking 10.4sec to accelerate from 0-62mph and is less composed around corners. It does offer plenty of room for rear passengers and a 310-litre boot, though.
Citroën has confirmed that the ë-C3 is eligible for the Government’s grant, but only qualifies for the lower band of £1500.
Read our Citroën ë-C3 review
Cupra Born
List price from £35,690
Price after grant from £34,190
The upmarket version of the Volkswagen ID 3 offers precise handling and a firmer ride for entertaining blasts down B-roads but is also surprisingly refined. At motorway speeds, there’s less wind noise than you’ll find in an MG4, although the ride can be somewhat fidgety. With a 58kWh (usable capacity) battery, the entry-level Born is officially capable of covering 264 miles. This figure increases to 348 miles if you go for an example with the larger 77kWh battery. Born buyers also get plenty of rear space and a decent 385-litre boot
All but the range-topping Born VZ is eligible for the Government’s EV grant, with drivers able to save £1500 on the list price.
Read our Cupra Born review
Dacia Spring
List price from £14,995
Potential price after grant from £11,245
The petrol-powered Dacia Sandero might be the outright cheapest car on sale, but factor in the electric car grant, and it’s the electric Dacia Spring that takes the title. Available with 44bhp and 64bhp motors, the Spring’s leisurely performance and slow steering is best suited for city driving. The 140-mile official range is less than the rival Leapmotor T03 can offer, but the Spring feels more composed at high-speeds. In keeping with the Spring’s price, the interior feels cheap and offers limited space for rear passengers. There is a handy 308-litre boot, though.
Read our Dacia Spring review
Fiat 500e
List price from £23,535
Potential price after grant from £21,285
The Fiat 500e has attractive looks and is surprisingly fun to use about town. Its turning circle is tight and the Fiat is surprisingly composed around the bends; however, the Peugeot e-208 is less choppy over bumps. Sadly, the 500e is out of its depth on the motorway, subjecting occupants to a lot of wind noise – especially if you choose the convertible version. The 118-mile official range from the entry-level models is also poor – we’d recommend the 37.3kWh (usable capacity) battery, which can cover 194 miles. Unsurprisingly for such a small car, there’s not much space for rear passengers, although front storage space is plentiful.
Until the end of September 2025, private buyers can get a £1500 discount on a new 500e.
Read our Fiat 500e review
Fiat Grande Panda Electric
List price from £19,535
Potential price after grant from £17,285
Retro-themed designs have been Fiat’s forte for many years now and the Grande Panda is no exception – taking inspiration from the original Fiat Panda of the 1980s. It’s cheaper than the Citroën ë-C3 and Renault 5 but still manages to offer enough room for five – even if rear leg room is tight. A 43.8kWh (usable capacity) battery is enough to officially cover 199 miles and the 111bhp motor is enough to keep up with traffic on the motorways. That said, the steering feels rather spongy and the ride quality is firmer than the ë-C3.
Fiat is running a manufacturer’s discount of £1500 across the Grande Panda Electric range – pre-empting the Government’s grant.
Read our Fiat Grande Panda Electric review
GWM Ora 03
List price from £21,255
Potential price after grant from £21,255
Previously branded as the Funky Cat, the GWM Ora 03 offers an excellent safety rating but struggles to compete against rivals like the Mini Cooper Electric, MG4 and Renault 5. While the Ora 03’s 0-62mph time of 8.4sec is very reasonable, its body control is poor around corners while the suspension tends to fidget over bumps. The interior uses plenty of upmarket materials and has more rear leg room than the Renault 5; however, the touchscreen controls are fiddly and the 228-litre boot isn’t the most practical.
Read our GWM Ora 03 review
Hyundai Inster
List price from £19,755
Potential price after grant from £19,755
Competing against the BYD Dolphin Surf, Citroën ë-C3, and Renault 5 is no easy task, but the Hyundai Inster has proved itself a worthy rival. With the exception of the entry-level 01 model, all Insters use a 46kWh (usable capacity) battery – which provides an official range of 229 miles – and a 113bhp motor. The Inster isn’t as good to drive as the Renault 5 but offers plenty of standard equipment and a surprising amount of interior room. The rear seats can be slid to offer more leg room or boot space; however, buyers are limited to just four seats.
Hyundai is currently offering a discount to private customers which matches the top band of the Government’s grant, which is available until 4 January 2026.
Read our Hyundai Inster review
Leapmotor T03
List price from £14,495
Potential price after grant from £12,245
For one of the cheapest electric cars around, the Leapmotor T03 is a surprisingly well-equipped car. All models come with keyless start, panoramic glass roof and a touchscreen – albeit not a particularly intuitive one. With a 94bhp motor, performance is slower than larger electric hatchbacks, like the BYD Dolphin Surf, Citroën ë-C3 and Renault 5, but still good enough for city driving. Similarly, a 36kWh (usable capacity) battery results in an official range of 165 miles – better than the Dacia Spring but not the most practical on long trips.
Until the end of December 2025, by which time details of which cars qualify for the full discount under the Government’s EV grant, Leapmotor has lowered the list price of the T03 by £1500 for private customers. This suggests that, unlike the larger C10, the T03 won’t qualify for the full grant.
List price from £25,505
Potential price after grant from £23,255
Although many of its rivals, like the Citroën ë-C3 and Hyundai Inster, are cheaper, the MG4 remains a value-packed car. With the 61.7kWh (usable capacity) ‘Long Range’ battery fitted, the MG4 can manage an official range of 281 miles while absorbing bumps better than most alternatives. Although some rivals offer a higher quality interior and a larger boot, there’s plenty of passenger room. However, the biggest surprise is that the high-performance XPower variant’s list price is under the Government’s threshold – helping drivers save a packet on a genuine hot hatchback that takes just 3.8sec to accelerate from 0-62mph.
Until more details surrounding the Government’s EV grant are known, MG has cut £1500 off the list price of the MG4 – along with a £1000 test drive discount – until the end of December 2025. This would suggest the MG4 will not qualify for the full £3750 discount.
Read our MG4 review
Mini Cooper Electric
List price from £26,905
Potential price after grant from £23,155
‘Wizardry on wheels’ was the slogan that accompanied the original 1959 Mini and, in terms of driving enjoyment, it still holds true with the Cooper Electric. With 181bhp, the entry-level Cooper Electric takes 7.3sec to accelerate from 0-62mph – faster than the MG4, Peugeot e-208 and Renault 5. This can be cut down to 6.7sec with the 215bhp SE models and just 5.9sec if you choose the range-topping JCW. The Cooper Electric is also very manoeuvrable; however, the firm suspension means it's not as enjoyable around corners as some rivals. It’s also not a particularly practical car, featuring little rear leg room, no rear doors and a 210-litre boot.
List price from £22,995
Price after grant from £21,495
After a few years off sale, the Nissan Micra will soon return as an electric hatchback. Sharing lots in common with the current What Car? Car of the Year, the Renault 5, including the choice in set-ups, with entry-level models using a 40kWh (usable capacity) battery and 121bhp motor and more expensive versions getting a 52kWh battery and 148bhp motor. In either case, you get a reasonably supple ride (although the Citroën ë-C3 is slightly more comfortable) and cornering capabilities that put rivals, such as the Fiat Grande Panda Electric and Hyundai Inster, to shame. An official range of 253 miles on the top-spec version also helps the Micra stay capable.
While the new Nissan Micra won’t arrive in the UK until the end of the year, the Government has confirmed it will qualify for the lower band of the EV grant – cutting £1500 off the list price.
Read our Nissan Micra review
Peugeot e-208
List price from £30,050
Potential price after grant from £28,650
Despite many rivals, such as the Hyundai Inster and Renault 5, being released more recently, the Peugeot e-208 still manages to hold its own thanks to its long list of standard features and a high-quality interior. There’s not that much room for rear passengers, though, and the 311-litre boot is hardly class-leading. Nevertheless, the e-208 offers reasonable performance figures and, particularly if you opt for the 48.1kWh (usable capacity) battery, a decent range.
Like the larger e-2008 SUV and e-Rifer MPV, the Peugeot e-208 qualifies for the lower band of the Government’s EV grant – cutting the list price by £1500.
Read our Peugeot e-208 review
Renault 5
List price from £22,995
Price after grant from £21,495
Our reigning Car of the Year, the Renault 5 impressed us because of its impressive value for money. Undercutting many rivals, including the Hyundai Inster and Vauxhall Corsa Electric, the Renault 5 offers a very grown-up driving style and a practical official range of 252 miles if you choose the larger 52kWh (usable capacity) battery. The 5’s interior is well-built and stylish, but don’t expect much rear leg room or boot space.
The Government has confirmed that the Renault 5 qualifies for a £1500 discount under their electric car grant.
Read our Renault 5 review
Vauxhall Corsa Electric
List price from £25,280
Price after grant from £23,780
Rivalling the BYD Dolphin Surf and Renault 5, the Vauxhall Corsa Electric is slightly more expensive but offers plenty of standard equipment. Our favourite version is the 48.1kWh (usable capacity) Long Range, which can officially cover 246 miles – roughly the same as the Hyundai Inster. Unfortunately, it’s not the most enjoyable electric hatchback to drive, not helped by the amount of wind and suspension noise in the cabin, and a smaller than average boot.
The Government has confirmed that the Corsa Electric qualifies for the lower band of the EV grant, saving customers £1500. Moreover, with their ‘Electric All In’ package, drivers can also get £500 to go towards fitting a home charger or use of public charging and 10,000 miles of free home charging. Both deals run alongside Vauxhall’s £1500 deposit contribution.
List price from £30,860
Potential price after grant from £29,360
The Volkswagen ID 3 is slightly more expensive than many of its rivals, with the GTX Performance model not qualifying for the Government’s EV grant. Nevertheless, it’s got plenty of high-end equipment as standard and is enjoyable to drive. Eligible models come with either a 52kWh (usable capacity) or 59kWh battery – the latter of which can officially cover 259 miles. A tight turning circle makes negotiating tight spaces a breeze, although the interior does feel rather cheap.
The Government has added the Volkswagen ID 3 to its growing list of electric cars eligible for the lower band of the EV grant, reducing the price by £1500.
Read our Volkswagen ID 3 review
Family cars
Citroën ë-C4
List price from £27,650
Price after grant from £26,150
If you’re looking for an affordable yet practical electric car but don’t want a high-riding SUV, the Citroën ë-C4 might be the car for you. A sleek coupé-inspired SUV, the ë-C4 undercuts rivals like the Jeep Avenger Electric and Kia EV3. All three versions of the ë-C4 are priced under the £37,000 threshold, although none are particularly quick off the mark compared with rivals, nor do they have the best range. The ë-C4’s main advantage is its refined driving style, thanks to its soft ride quality and lack of wind or tyre noise at motorway speeds.
Citroën is the first car company to confirm their eligibility for the lower band of the Government’s EV grant – cutting the cost of an ë-C4 by £1500.
Read our Citroën ë-C4 review
Citroën ë-C4 X
List price from £28,715
Price after grant from £27,215
Put simply, the Citroën ë-C4 X is the ë-C4’s more practical twin brother. A saloon, the ë-C4 X’s main selling point is its 510-litre boot – something that puts many larger SUVs and estates to shame. Unfortunately, the low roof line means there’s limited head room for rear passengers, while leg room is tighter than the Kia Niro EV and MG4. Like the ë-C4, the ë-C4 X has two power options, with the top-spec Max using a 134bhp motor and 50kWh (usable capacity) battery – enough for a respectable 260-mile official range and decent, although not exactly blistering, performance.
Like the ë-C4 hatchback, Citroën has confirmed that the ë-C4 X meets the eligibility requirements for the lower band of the Government’s EV grant.
Read our Citroën ë-C4 X review
Peugeot e-308
List price from £34,960
Price after grant from £33,460
A stablemate of the Vauxhall Astra Electric, the Peugeot e-308 competes alongside the Cupra Born, MG4 and Renault Megane. All e-308s use a 51kWh (usable capacity) battery for an official range of 250 miles. A 154bhp motor drives the front wheels, giving the e-308 a 0-62mph sprint time of 9.8sec – less than the Astra Electric but enough for comfortable motorway overtaking. Inside, the e-308 feels classy and offers plenty of space for front passengers. Unfortunately, leg room is tight for rear occupants and the 361-litre boot is smaller than the petrol-powered counterpart.
The Peugeot e-308 qualifies for a £1500 saving through the EV grant, the Government has confirmed.
Read our Peugeot e-308 review
Peugeot e-408
List price from £34,960
Price after grant from £33,460
A blend of SUV, family hatchback and executive car, the Peugeot e-408 undercuts many rivals, including the Kia EV6, Polestar 2 and Tesla Model 3. Both trim levels use a 58.2kWh (usable capacity) battery – giving the e-408 an official range of 280 miles. A 212bhp motor gives the e-408 a 0-62mph acceleration time of 7.6sec. Like the petrol or hybrid-powered Peugeot 408, the e-408 has a plush interior and a higher driving position than most alternatives. There’s also plenty of leg room for front and rear occupants, although head room is rather limited. A 471-litre boot is useful, but not class-leading.
The Government has confirmed that Peugeot e-408 buyers will be able to save £1500 through the electric car grant.
Renault Megane
List price from £28,745
Price after grant from £27,245
The latest Renault Megane is the first to go all-electric and therefore faces rivals like the Ford Puma Gen-E and Hyundai Kona Electric. All models use a 215bhp motor, helping the Megane accelerate from 0-62mph in 6.9sec, and a 60kWh (usable capacity) battery to offer an official range of 285 miles – more than the Peugeot e-308. Despite having tight body control, the Megane isn’t the most engaging EV through the corners, although it’s very quiet at high speeds. A very deep boot gives the Megane more storage space than the MG4, although many rivals offer more room for rear passengers.
Since the Renault Megane qualifies for the lower band of the electric car grant, buyers can save £1500.
Read our Renault Megane review
Vauxhall Astra Electric
List price from £32,630
Price after grant from £31,130
With the exception of the top-spec Ultimate hatchback and Ultimate and Griffin Sports Tourer estates, all Vauxhall Astra Electrics are eligible for the plug-in car grant. That’s a good thing because the Astra is a particularly practical car, featuring a 350-litre boot (or 516 litres if you choose the Sports Tourer). That said, rear passengers would benefit from more leg room. Like the Peugeot e-308, all Astra Electrics come with a 50.8kWh (usable capacity) battery and a 153bhp motor, resulting in adequate performance figures and a 259-mile official range.
Since the Astra Electric qualifies for the lower band of the Government’s EV grant, buyers can save £1500. The grant runs alongside Vauxhall’s £1500 deposit contribution and the ‘Electric All In’ package – which gives buyers 10,000 miles of free home charging and £500 to go towards a home charger or public charging.
Read our Vauxhall Astra Electric review
MPVs
Citroën ë-Berlingo
List price from £31,240
Price after grant from £29,740
There aren’t many electric seven-seaters around for less than £37,000, but the Citroën ë-Berlingo is an exception. Using the same setup as the Peugeot e-Rifter and Vauxhall Combo Electric, the ë-Berlingo is available with five or seven seats – both of which offer plenty of passenger space and (if you choose the longer XL version) a colossal 1050-litre boot. Being derived from a van, you shouldn’t expect an SUV-like experience, but the ë-Berlingo’s driving style is reasonable. But the 50kWh (usable capacity) battery provides an official range of only 213 miles, which isn’t up to scratch with many SUV alternatives.
Citroën has confirmed that the ë-Berlingo qualifies for the EV grant – reducing the list price by £1500.
List price from £35,445
Price after grant from £33,945
One of the most practical EVs available at any price, the Citroën ë-Spacetourer offers enough space for as many as nine occupants. The entry-level ë-Spacetourer and ë-Spacetourer XL (the only models in the range that qualify for the grant) use a 134bhp motor which drives the front wheels, offering good performance about town but rather sluggish acceleration on the motorway (particularly if you’re got lots of passengers on board). A 46.3kWh (usable capacity) battery provides an official range of 136 miles – something the closely-related Peugeot e-Traveller can beat. Even so, the ë-Spacetourer is very configurable – allowing you to slide rows of seats forwards for more passenger or luggage space.
Like the rest of the Citroën electric range, the ë-Spacetourer qualifies for the lower band of the Government’s EV grant, meaning drivers can save £1500.
Read our Citroën ë-Spacetourer review
Ford E-Tourneo Courier
List price from £33,690
Price after grant from £29,940
If you’re looking to seat five in comfort while retaining the virtues of a small car, the Ford E-Tourneo Courier might be for you. It’s quite a bit smaller than rivals, such as the Citroën ë-Berlingo, Peugeot e-Rifter and Vauxhall Combo Life Electric; however, it still offers plenty of head and leg room for front and rear occupants. There’s plenty of luggage space, with a 1188-litre boot and 44 litres of under-bonnet storage. A 43kWh (usable capacity) battery offers an official range of 178 miles, which is slightly more than the Combo Life Electric can manage. With a 134bhp motor, the E-Tourneo Courier is also slightly quicker off the mark than the e-Rifter – taking 11.0sec to accelerate from 0-62mph.
Like the Puma Gen-E, the E-Tourneo Courier qualifies for the higher band of the Government’s EV grant, cutting £3750 off the list price.
Peugeot e-Rifter
List price from £32,250
Potential price after grant from £30,750
Much like the Citroën ë-Berlingo, the Peugeot e-Rifter is offered with either five or seven seats, and is priced considerably under other electric MPVs like the Kia EV9 and Tesla Model Y 7-Seat. One key difference, however, is the interior, with the e-Rifter’s dashboard getting a centre console between the two front seats for extra storage. An 11.2sec 0-62mph time is hardly quick, but the e-Rifter is surprisingly refined on the move; although the official range of 172 miles is less than the Citroën equivalent.
Like the ë-Berlingo and Combo Life Electric, the Peugeot e-Rifter is eligible for the lower band of the Government’s EV grant, meaning drivers can save £1500.
Read our Peugeot e-Rifter review
Peugeot e-Traveller
List price from £35,425
Price after grant from £33,925
A close partner to the Citroën ë-Spacetourer, the Peugeot e-Traveller’s main advantage is the amount of space it offers. Available in ‘Standard’ and ‘Long’ lengths and with up to eight seats, the e-Traveller is undoubtedly versatile, although the fit and finish of the interior is distinctively van-like. Like the Citroën, the e-Traveller uses a 134bhp motor, which results in a rather sluggish 0-62mph sprint time of 14.3sec. Even so, a larger 75kWh battery gives the e-Traveller a longer official range of 219 miles.
The Peugeot e-Traveller is eligible for the lower band of the Government’s EV grant – helping drivers cut the list price by £1500.
Read our Peugeot e-Traveller review
Vauxhall Combo Life Electric
List price from £32,190
Price after grant from £30,690
Another version of the Citroën ë-Berlingo and Peugeot e-Rifter, the Vauxhall Combo Life Electric shares many of the same virtues – not least the ample amount of head and leg room for up to seven passengers. A 174-mile official range is possible thanks to the 52.8kWh (usable capacity) battery, and a 134bhp electric motor helps the Combo Life Electric feel at home on the motorway. At high-speeds, wind and road noise are kept to a minimum and ride quality is reasonable; however, you’ll encounter some body lean around tight bends.
Like the rest of Vauxhall’s EV lineup, the Government has confirmed that the Combo Life Electric qualifies for the lower band of the EV grant – cutting £1500 from the list price.
Read our Vauxhall Combo Life Electric review
