Key facts (2026): Charging a 60kWh electric car (typical mid-size EV) at home costs approximately £10–£15 for a full charge at the current electricity rate. Public rapid chargers (50–150kW) cost approximately £0.55–£0.85/kWh — approximately £33–£51 for a full charge. Public ultra-rapid chargers (150kW+) cost approximately £0.75–£1.00/kWh.
Electric vehicle running costs are significantly lower than petrol or diesel when charged primarily at home — but public charging can negate much of the cost saving. Understanding the full charging cost picture is essential for anyone considering switching to an EV or calculating the true running costs of an existing electric car.
Home Charging Costs 2026
The average UK electricity rate under the price cap is approximately 24.5p/kWh in Q2 2026. A 60kWh battery (e.g. Tesla Model 3 Long Range, VW ID.4) costs: 60 × £0.245 = £14.70 for a full charge from empty. In practice, most drivers charge from 20–80% (not 0–100%) — approximately £8.82. EV-specific tariffs from Octopus Energy (Intelligent Octopus) offer off-peak rates as low as 7–9p/kWh for overnight charging — reducing home charging cost to £4–£6 for a full charge.
Public Charging Costs 2026
Destination chargers (7–22kW, at supermarkets, car parks): often free or £0.30–£0.45/kWh. Rapid chargers (50kW, Osprey, BP Pulse, Pod Point): £0.55–£0.75/kWh. Ultra-rapid chargers (150–350kW, Gridserve, MFG, Shell Recharge): £0.75–£1.00/kWh. A 60kWh charge at ultra-rapid rates (£0.85/kWh) costs approximately £51 — comparable to or more expensive than a petrol equivalent for that amount of range.
EV vs Petrol — Cost Comparison
Annual mileage 10,000 miles. Petrol car at 40mpg: approximately 227 gallons × £1.55/litre (4.55 litres/gallon) = £350 in fuel. EV charged 80% at home (9p/kWh off-peak) and 20% publicly: home cost £180 + public cost £150 = approximately £330 total. On standard electricity rate (24.5p/kWh, all home charging): approximately £490. Key conclusion: EVs are cheaper than petrol primarily when home or workplace charging at off-peak rates is available. Heavy reliance on public rapid charging significantly reduces or eliminates the cost advantage.
Our Verdict
EV running costs are genuinely lower than petrol when you can charge at home — particularly on an off-peak tariff like Octopus Intelligent at 7–9p/kWh. The economics change significantly if you rely on public rapid charging at 70–85p/kWh. Before switching to an EV, honestly assess how much home charging access you have. For those with a driveway or garage, the saving is real and significant. For those reliant on public charging, the cost advantage is minimal.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to charge an EV at home UK?
Approximately £10–£15 for a full 60kWh charge at standard rates. On off-peak EV tariffs (7–9p/kWh), as little as £4–£6.
Is charging an electric car cheaper than petrol?
When charged at home on off-peak rates, yes — significantly. When using public rapid chargers (70–85p/kWh), the cost advantage largely disappears.
What is the cheapest way to charge an EV UK?
Home charging on an EV-specific off-peak tariff such as Octopus Intelligent — rates as low as 7p/kWh for overnight charging.
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Disclaimer: For informational purposes only. Verify with official sources before making decisions.
Last updated: April 2026 · Author: Chandraketu Tripathi
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