Thinking of buying an electric car but not sure where to start? You’re not alone. While running an EV is cheaper than a tank of petrol and a cappuccino combined, that first purchase price can sting. Luckily, both the UK and Irish governments have lined up a range of grants, tax breaks, and home charger schemes to ease the pain — and we’ve mapped them all out for you.

EV Grants in the United Kingdom (2025)

The classic Plug-in Car Grant may have driven off into the sunset, but there’s still plenty on offer. The focus has shifted toward smarter charging and practical incentives that reward everyday drivers and company car owners alike.

1. EV Chargepoint Grant for Flats & Renters

If you rent or live in an apartment block, this one’s for you. The EV Chargepoint Grant offers £350 off the cost of purchasing and installing a home charger.

  • Who’s eligible: Tenants in flats or rented homes, plus landlords of residential or commercial properties.
  • How to apply: Your OZEV-approved installer handles the paperwork and deducts the grant from your invoice.

2. Workplace Charging Scheme (WCS)

Businesses can also get in on the action. The Workplace Charging Scheme offers £350 per socket (up to 40 sockets) to any registered company, charity, or public body. Perfect for keeping employees charged and happy — no extension leads required.

3. Tax Benefits & Exemptions

Forget flashy incentives — this is where the real money is saved.

  • Benefit-in-Kind (BiK) Tax: Just 2% until 2028 for company car drivers. That’s thousands saved compared to a diesel saloon.
  • Vehicle Excise Duty (VED): EVs registered before 1 April 2025 remain exempt. New ones pay the lowest band from that date.
  • Congestion & Clean Air Zones: EVs glide through London’s ULEZ and other city zones without charge (minor admin fee applies).

4. Regional EV Support in Scotland, Wales & Northern Ireland

Don’t forget the devolved nations. Scotland leads with interest-free loans via the Energy Saving Trust for used EVs and chargers. Wales and Northern Ireland generally mirror UK schemes, but it’s worth checking local government sites for 2025 updates.

EV Grants in the Republic of Ireland (2025)

The SEAI (Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland) continues to back EV adoption with generous grants and tax reliefs — especially for private buyers.

1. Private Purchase Grant

Up to €3,500 is available toward new Battery Electric Vehicles (BEVs) priced between €14,000 and €60,000. Dealers apply this discount automatically, so the price you see is post-grant. Easy.

2. Home Charger Grant

Claim €300 after installing a charger at home. Available to new or second-hand EV owners who haven’t claimed before.

3. VRT Relief & Tax Perks

  • VRT Relief: Up to €4,000 for BEVs valued up to €40,000.
  • Low Motor Tax: Only €120 per year — cheaper than a gym membership you don’t use.
  • Toll Savings: Up to 50% off certain routes through the Electric Vehicle Toll Incentive.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is there still a UK government grant for buying an electric car?

No — the old Plug-in Car Grant has ended. The current focus is on charging support and tax savings like the 2% BiK rate.

How do I apply for the EV home charger grant?

In the UK, your OZEV installer handles it. In Ireland, apply via the SEAI site after your installation.

Do I have to pay road tax on an EV in 2025?

EVs registered before April 2025 remain exempt. Those registered after that date will pay the lowest VED band.

Are the grants in Ireland better than the UK?

Upfront — yes. Ireland’s SEAI offers strong purchase grants. But UK company car drivers often save more long-term via BiK tax breaks.

Conclusion: Driving Value Into the Future

Whether you’re in Belfast or Bray, there’s never been a better time to plug in. The key to saving big is knowing which incentives stack in your favour. From UK workplace chargepoint grants to Irish purchase bonuses, every pound or euro counts.

And when you’re ready to make the switch, the ONEEV App makes life even easier — helping you find charge points, pay seamlessly, and earn lifestyle rewards on every journey.