Drivers are being urged to keep their electric vehicle (EV) charging costs as low as possible as the number of EVs on UK roads surpasses two million for the first time. Figures from the Department for Transport (DfT) confirmed that 2,012,000 EVs were licensed for use in the UK as of December 2025.
However, this milestone coincides with the Labour government introducing a 3p-per-mile road tax for EVs and 1.5p-per-mile for plug-in hybrids in April 2028 to recover lost fuel duty revenue. The new "Electric Vehicle Excise Duty" (eVED) will be calculated alongside existing vehicle tax, targeting approximately £1.1 billion in revenue by 2028–29.
Additionally, Octopus Energy announced that some customers on Octopus Go and Octopus Go Smart energy tariffs will pay 32% more from May 1. These tariffs originally offered cheap overnight charging for EV owners, allowing them to charge for less.
The motoring team at LeaseLoco.com says the change from the energy company reflects the current state of the industry, with Octopus Energy attributing it to ongoing volatility and changes in supply and demand.
Experts now advise EV drivers that while off-peak charging remains the cheaper option, prices are becoming less predictable. Drivers should stay flexible and take advantage of the best charging times to keep tariffs down.
John Wilmot, CEO of LeaseLoco, said: "The recent change brought in by Octopus Energy is reflective of what's happening in the industry currently. It's important to recognise that off-peak charging is still cheaper than peak times, but you can see where customers' frustrations have come from. The reality is that prices are fluctuating as a result of the ongoing changes in the energy market, and for EV drivers this means they should keep an eye on tariffs and charge at the cheapest times where possible."
How to keep EV charging costs low
Continue to charge at off-peak times
Despite fluctuating costs, it is still cheaper to charge cars during off-peak hours. Even with recent tariff changes, overnight charging rates are still lower than peak times.
Avoid public chargers
Where possible, try to avoid using public EV chargers as they are generally much more expensive to use than home chargers.
Charge efficiently
It is generally advised to keep your car charged between 20% and 80% on a daily basis to prolong its life and performance. Avoid charging it to 100% unless you are going on a long journey, as this can increase battery temperatures and cause stress.
Choose the right EV tariff
Many energy suppliers offer EV-specific tariffs with cheap overnight charging rates. Regularly compare plans to help ensure you are getting the best deal as prices change.
Make use of smart charging features
Smart charging allows you to plug in your EV and set your departure time. It will then automatically charge your car during the cheapest off-peak periods, without you having to check.
