What is an Electric Car Subscription?

An electric car subscription is much more convenient, flexible, and affordable (no upfront fees!) than leasing or buying a car outright. You simply pay a single monthly payment, like Netflix or Amazon Prime.

 

Not only does this payment cover the rental of the car, but it usually also includes servicing, breakdown cover and other running costs. You also get to drive a range of the latest electric cars.

 

What’s more, you’re not tied into a long-term contract and many providers allow you to switch cars regularly, with the option to cancel at any time.

 

What is an Electric Car Subscription?

An electric car subscription works in a very similar way to an electric car lease. Most subscriptions include the car, tax, maintenance, and breakdown cover, with the option to add insurance for an additional price.

 

They usually run for anywhere up to 24 months and are perfect for people that want to drive a brand-new car, hassle-free and for one monthly fee.

 

It can also be a good way to decide if you'd like to purchase an electric car in the future.

What are the Benefits to an Electric Car Subscription?

 There are several reasons to why you may choose to go with an electric car subscription rather than a PCP deal or a leasing agreement.

 

• Complete flexibility - you’re not tied into any year-long contracts, so as soon as the month changes, you’re free to renew or swap your car as you see fit.

• Hassle-free - since tax, maintenance and breakdown cover tend to be included with standard electric car subscriptions, you don’t have to worry about paying several different bills to ensure you are ready for the road.

• Brand new cars without spending £1000s - you can drive the newest, luxury models for a fraction of the price of buying one outright. And if you don’t like it - there is no obligation to keep it!

 

How Long is an Electric Car Subscription Contract?

The minimum term length of an electric car subscription ranges from 1 month to 3 months.

 

If you only need a vehicle for a couple of months, an electric car subscription service might be right for you. Many providers allow you to switch or return your car at the end of the minimum term.

 

If you don't want to continue, you'll have the option to either stop the subscription, or swap for another car.

 

However, you can extend your contract for as long as you like if you keep paying the monthly subscription fee.

 

What is Included in a Car Subscription?

Your monthly payment usually includes:

• Servicing and other maintenance

• Breakdown cover

• Road tax

• Access to a range of brand-new electric cars

 

Many providers include different things in their subscription costs. Depending on your chosen provider, your monthly payment may also include:

• Insurance

• Free delivery

• The ability to switch your car

• A manufacturer warranty

• Free public charging

• Congestion Charge Autopay

 

There are also other optional extras and incentives included with electric car subscription services - these vary by provider.

 

Who is Eligible for an Electric Car Subscription?

To be eligible for an EV subscription service, you must have held a full UK/EU driving licence for at least 1 year.

 

You may also have to prove that you've been a full UK resident for at least a year or that you're over 25. Some providers also ask for proof that you haven’t had any recent insurance claims or driving convictions.

 

Some providers have more restrictive eligibility criteria than others. If you aren't eligible for one provider, you may still be able to join a different one.

 

Why Haven’t I Heard of an EV Subscription Before?

Given that an electric car subscription brings plenty of benefits to drivers, you might be wondering why it’s not more common knowledge. Well, that’s because it’s still a relatively new form of electric car ownership.

 

Electric car subscription services have been around in the US since 2010, but the UK only adopted them recently. On.to is currently one of the biggest providers, and that was only formed in 2018.

 

Which Electric Car Subscription Services Should I Look At?

There are plenty of electric car subscription services available in the UK in 2024. Here are just a few:

• Elmo

• Ezoo

• Onto

• Wagonex

• DriveElectric

• E-car

• Gridserve

• Select Electric Car Leasing

• WeVee

• EVHire

• EVison

• Volt-Age

 

Many car manufacturers will have electric car subscription deals - contact the manufacturer directly.

 

FAQs

 

Read More

What are the Benefits of an Electric Car Subscription Service?

Now that you know what an electric car subscription service is, it’s time to find out how it can help you make the switch. Learn more about the benefits of this service in this article, including whether it’s worth investing in.

 

Electric Car Leasing vs Subscription: Which is Better?

Leasing has been around a lot longer than subscription services, so drivers may automatically look at the more established option. However, that doesn’t mean that an electric car subscription isn’t a better choice for your circumstance. Read our comparison in this article.

 

6 Things to Know About Electric Car Leasing

Car leasing can be an attractive option for drivers that don’t want to purchase an electric car outright. This could be for financial reasons, or because you’re not sure you’re ready to commit to a car for the foreseeable future. Either way, this article covers six vital things you should know before you decide to lease an electric car.