Electric Car Grant 2025: Complete List of Eligible Vehicles and Standout Picks

The UK Government has recently announced the 2025 Electric Car Grant (ECG), aimed at making electric vehicles (EVs) more accessible to the public by providing discounts of up to £3,750. However, not all electric cars qualify for this government-funded price reduction. This article will clarify which models are eligible and help you navigate this ever-growing list to find the ideal vehicle for you.

Understanding the Electric Car Grant

To benefit from the Electric Car Grant, several criteria must be met. Primarily, vehicles must be priced below £37,000. The grant is divided into two bands:

• Band 1: Cars that meet strict sustainability standards receive the full £3,750 discount.
• Band 2: Models meeting lower sustainability criteria receive a discount of £1,500.

As of now, no models are eligible for the full grant, but there are over 20 electric vehicles that qualify for the reduced discount. If you're considering going electric, we've compiled the best options based on current eligibility criteria.

Eligible Electric Cars

Here’s a breakdown of electric cars currently qualifying for the Electric Car Grant:

Alpine

• Alpine A290: Entering the EV market with a sporty vibe, the Alpine A290 starts at £32,000. This electric hatchback combines performance with eco-friendliness.

Citroën

Citroën has made a strong showing in the EV category with several models:

• Citroën e-C3: Starts at £20,595. Awarded the Auto Express 2024 Car of the Year.
• Citroën e-C3 Aircross: Starting at £21,595, this SUV variant offers more space.
• Citroën e-C4: Starts at £26,150.
• Citroën e-C4 X: A slightly larger variant starting at £27,215.
• Citroën e-C5 Aircross: A family-friendly SUV starting from £32,565.
• Citroën e-Berlingo MPV: A practical choice with a starting price of £29,740.

Cupra

• Cupra Born: This sporty hatchback starts at £34,190 and offers a blend of performance and tech, with a range of up to 346 miles.

Nissan

Nissan's new electric lineup includes:

• Nissan Ariya: Starting at £33,500, this family SUV has become a more affordable option due to successive price cuts.
• Nissan Micra: A compact supermini starting from £21,495, also eligible for the grant.

Peugeot

Peugeot currently has three models qualifying for the grant:

• Peugeot E-208: Starting at £28,650. This stylish supermini is perfect for urban driving.
• Peugeot E-2008: A compact SUV starting from £33,900.
• Peugeot E-Rifter MPV: A practical family vehicle with a starting price of £30,750.

Renault

Renault excels with its electric offerings:

• Renault 5: Starting at £21,495, this model has won accolades for its affordability and practicality.
• Renault 4: Starting from £25,495, this small SUV has embraced retro charm and modern tech.
• Renault Megane: With a starting price of £30,995.
• Renault Scenic: A family-friendly option costing £35,495.

Vauxhall

Vauxhall's electric lineup includes:

• Vauxhall Astra: Starting from £33,505.
• Vauxhall Corsa: A popular choice, starting at £26,005.
• Vauxhall Combo Life: With prices starting at £30,960.
• Vauxhall Frontera: Starting from £22,495, this electric SUV is priced competitively.
• Vauxhall Grandland: A larger SUV starting at £35,455.
• Vauxhall Mokka: This stylish small SUV starts from £31,005.

Volkswagen

• Volkswagen ID.3: This refined hatchback is available from £29,360 and provides an exceptional range up to 352 miles.

Top Picks for the Electric Car Grant

As more models gain eligibility, certain vehicles stand out. Our recommendations include:

• Renault 5: This small EV offers excellent handling, modern tech, and a retro aesthetic, providing an enjoyable driving experience.
• Renault 4: A larger option for families, the Renault 4 boasts ample boot space and an innovative one-pedal driving feature.
• Citroën e-C3: Renowned for comfort and efficiency, it’s an easy car to manage for city driving.
• Nissan Ariya and Renault Scenic: Both spacious and offering impressive range options, ideal for families.

Cars to Avoid with the EV Grant

Despite many strong contenders, some vehicles aren’t the best value. We advise against:

• Peugeot E-208 and E-2008: These older models may not provide the best range for their pricing, compared to their newer counterparts.
• Vauxhall Mokka: While stylish, it tends to be priced higher than more efficient models.

Conclusion

With over 20 electric vehicles now qualifying for the Electric Car Grant, the options are expanding rapidly. As you consider making the switch to an electric vehicle, weigh your options wisely, considering both the benefits of the grant and the long-term value of your purchase. Stay tuned as more models may become available, further enhancing your choices in the ever-evolving electric vehicle market.