Electric vehicles are no longer a futuristic concept; they’re here, and they’re quickly becoming the norm. In June 2025, EVs made up a quarter of all new vehicles registered in the UK, and the numbers are climbing.
For businesses, the pressure to cut emissions is only getting stronger. Customers expect it. Regulators demand it. And the truth is, switching to electric can also make financial sense. Lower running costs, fewer maintenance headaches, and new tax breaks are making EV fleets a smart choice for forward-thinking companies.
Here’s why now is the right time to make the switch and the benefits that go far beyond “going green”.
1. Real cost savings - not just at the pump
For years, many businesses hesitated about switching to electric vehicles (EVs), worried about higher purchase prices and patchy charging infrastructure. But in 2025, the numbers are tipping in electric’s favour.
Tax breaks for chargers: You can claim a 100% first-year allowance for installing EV charging points, giving you immediate tax relief while building your own charging infrastructure.
Lower running costs: An EV can save around £750 a year in fuel if it’s mostly charged at home instead of on public networks.
Cheaper servicing: Fewer moving parts mean EV maintenance typically costs about 40% less than petrol or diesel.
Charging availability is improving, too. There are now over 86,021 public chargers across the UK, and the EV infrastructure grant for SMEs covers up to 75% of installation costs (capped at £15,000) for multiple charge points.
2. Staying ahead of the inevitable
The UK ban on new petrol and diesel sales kicks in by 2030, with hybrids following in 2035.
That’s not far away.
Businesses that start their transition now will have:
A head start on infrastructure: Install chargers before demand spikes and costs climb.
A competitive edge: Consumers and partners increasingly choose suppliers who can demonstrate sustainable practices.
Time to adapt gradually: Spread the switch over several years, avoiding a last-minute scramble.
Making the move early isn’t just about compliance; it’s a chance to position your business as a leader rather than a follower.
3. Boosting your brand and reputation
Sustainability is no longer a nice-to-have; it’s a key part of how your business is judged. An EV fleet is one of the most visible, measurable ways to cut carbon emissions and reduce your reliance on fossil fuels.
That visibility matters. Companies with clear environmental action plans often attract:
More loyal customers
Stronger investor interest
Better partnership opportunities
Switching to EVs shows you’re serious about your commitments, which can be a deciding factor when winning contracts or attracting top talent.
4. Avoiding clean air zone charges
If your vehicles operate in or near major UK cities, you’ve likely felt the impact of Clean Air Zones and the London ULEZ.
Non-compliant vehicles face daily charges, £12.50 in London, adding up to over £3,000 a year for a vehicle entering five days a week.
With EVs, those costs disappear. Your fleet can operate in London, Birmingham, Bristol, and other cities without worrying about daily emissions penalties. For businesses making frequent city trips, this alone can make a strong financial case for switching.
5. Opening new doors
Many larger companies now look closely at their supply chain’s environmental credentials before signing contracts.
If you’re pitching for business with eco-conscious organisations, running an EV fleet can help you meet their requirements and stand out in competitive tenders.
It’s not just about winning contracts; it’s about keeping them. As sustainability reporting becomes stricter, being ahead of the curve makes you a lower-risk partner.
The bottom line
EV fleets aren’t just about the environment; they’re about smarter business. You’ll:
Save on fuel, maintenance, and taxes
Avoid rising compliance costs
Improve your brand reputation
Strengthen your appeal to eco-conscious customers and partners
The market is moving fast. By making the switch now, you’re not just keeping up, you’re getting ahead.
Matthew Briggs, CEO at Right Fuel Card, sums it up:
“The environmental benefits are clear, but the financial advantages are just as compelling. Lower fuel and maintenance costs, stronger customer appeal, and the ability to operate freely in Clean Air Zones make EV fleets a win-win. At Right Fuel Card, we see this not as a trend to follow, but an opportunity to lead.”
