Here at TCH Leasing, we have a series of electric vehicles to help you make the most of your Salary Sacrifice scheme. Available on a vast array of makes and models, from city cars to SUVs, we’re sure to have the right offer on the right car to suit your personal needs.
We know electric vehicles (EV) can be confusing, so to help we’ve produced a handy page of information. You can view the most commonly asked questions below.
IS IT TIME TO ‘SWITCH’?
There is now no cheaper way of getting a new electric or hybrid vehicle than under a Salary Sacrifice scheme like the TCH Leasing Salary Sacrifice scheme.
The number of electric and hybrid vehicles is increasing month by month – both in terms of numbers of vehicles already on the road and also the number of new models coming on to the market. This means there’s more choice than ever for your next dream ride.
Modern EV batteries are designed to last for many years and typically come with an 8-year or 100,000-mile battery warranty, depending on the manufacturer. Real-world studies show that most electric vehicles retain the vast majority of their battery capacity even after several years and high mileage. While all batteries gradually lose some capacity over time, battery degradation is generally much lower than many people expect, helping EVs remain practical and efficient throughout their ownership period.
Modern electric vehicles provide multiple warnings as battery levels become low and can guide you to nearby charging points using built-in navigation systems. If you do run out of charge completely, you’ll need roadside assistance, just as you would if a petrol or diesel vehicle ran out of fuel. However, with improved battery ranges and a growing public charging network, running out of charge is becoming increasingly uncommon.
Electric vehicles are highly efficient when stationary and use very little energy when not moving. Even with heating, air conditioning and entertainment systems running, battery usage is typically low during traffic delays. In fact, EVs are often more efficient than petrol or diesel vehicles in stop-start traffic because they don’t waste energy idling.
Yes. The UK’s electricity network is being upgraded as EV adoption grows, and National Grid has been planning for increased demand for many years. Smart charging technology allows many vehicles to charge overnight when demand is lower, helping to balance the load on the grid. Continued investment in renewable energy, battery storage and grid infrastructure will support the transition to electric vehicles.
Yes. Electric vehicles and charging equipment are designed to operate safely in all normal weather conditions, including rain. Charging connectors are sealed and tested to strict safety standards, and EVs can be charged outdoors safely throughout the year.
Electric vehicles cope very well with periods of inactivity. If your vehicle will be parked for several weeks or longer, most manufacturers recommend leaving the battery partially charged and following the guidance in your owner’s manual. Many EVs can also be monitored remotely through a smartphone app, making it easy to check battery levels while the vehicle is parked.
Official EV range figures are measured using the WLTP testing standard, which allows drivers to compare vehicles consistently. Actual range will vary depending on factors such as weather, driving speed, road conditions, passenger load and use of heating or air conditioning. Most drivers quickly become familiar with how these factors affect their vehicle’s range in everyday use.
The cost depends on your electricity tariff, battery size and charging habits. For most drivers, charging at home remains significantly cheaper than filling a petrol or diesel vehicle with fuel. Drivers on dedicated EV tariffs can often access lower overnight electricity rates, helping to reduce running costs even further. The easiest way to estimate charging costs is to multiply your electricity rate (pence per kWh) by the size of your vehicle’s battery.
In most cases, yes. Home charging is typically the most cost-effective way to charge an electric vehicle, especially when using an off-peak EV tariff. Public charging prices vary by provider and charger speed, with rapid and ultra-rapid chargers generally costing more than slower destination chargers. Many EV drivers use public charging for convenience on longer journeys while relying on lower-cost home charging for day-to-day driving.
Yes. Many modern EVs can travel well over 250 miles on a single charge, with some models capable of significantly more. The UK’s public charging network continues to expand, making long-distance travel easier than ever. Most EVs can also plan charging stops automatically as part of a journey, helping drivers travel with confidence.
Electric vehicles remain one of the most tax-efficient choices within a Salary Sacrifice scheme because they attract lower Benefit-in-Kind (BiK) tax rates than most petrol and diesel vehicles. Combined with potential Income Tax and National Insurance savings, this can make driving a brand-new electric vehicle more affordable than many people expect.