Electric cars are no longer just for early adopters or luxury buyers. 2025 is shaping up as the year of the affordable EV — practical, stylish, and packed with tech. Here are the new models bringing electric within reach of everyone.
EV Affordability Finally Arrives
After years of promises, the sub-£30,000 EV segment is exploding. New entrants from China and Europe are cutting costs through modular battery design and shared production platforms. Meanwhile, UK consumers are benefitting from competitive finance and longer warranties.
According to the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT), over 40% of all new EVs registered in Q3 2025 were priced under £32,000 — a first for the UK market.
Five Affordable EVs to Watch in 2025
- BYD Dolphin: From £26,195 — 265-mile range, fast charging up to 88 kW, and a premium cabin that undercuts VW’s ID.3 by thousands.
- MG 4 Extended Range: From £29,495 — 323-mile WLTP range, sharp handling, and a reputation for solid build quality.
- Renault 5 E-Tech: From £25,000 — retro-cool styling meets everyday usability; UK deliveries start early 2025.
- Leapmotor T03: From £18,995 — Chinese newcomer targeting city drivers; compact, tech-heavy and fully electric.
- Vauxhall Corsa Electric (2025 refresh): From £26,000 — faster charging, improved infotainment, and a British favourite reborn.
All these models qualify for low Benefit-in-Kind tax (2%) for company car drivers, and each supports rapid or fast-charging compatibility with major UK networks.
What’s Behind the Price Drop?
EVs are finally benefitting from scale economics. Global cell production is at record levels, with lithium-iron phosphate (LFP) batteries lowering costs and improving longevity. New vehicle architectures reduce complexity by up to 30%, allowing manufacturers to deliver more range per pound spent.
Government incentives, such as the Public Charge Point Regulations and fleet tax benefits, continue to push manufacturers to localise production and pricing for UK buyers.
How These Cars Fit Everyday Life
The new generation of affordable EVs doesn’t compromise on practicality. With typical ranges between 200 – 300 miles, most owners will charge once or twice a week. Most models now offer heat-pump climate systems, wireless CarPlay, and over-the-air updates — features once reserved for high-end EVs.
Even the smallest models support DC rapid charging, meaning a 10–80% top-up in about 30 minutes — ideal for the weekly shop or gym run.
Why ONEEV Makes Affordable EV Ownership Easier
- One app for every charger: Start, stop, and pay securely across 65,000+ charge points in the UK & Ireland.
- Transparent pricing: View live cost per kWh before you plug in, helping you plan affordable routes.
- Lifestyle rewards: Save even more through ONEEV Rewards when you charge at partner locations.
- Driver insights: Track charging history, spend, and environmental impact in the ONEEV App.
For new EV owners, ONEEV helps turn “range planning” into “everyday normal”. Explore practical ownership guides in ONEEV Insights.
FAQs
Which new EVs are cheapest to buy in 2025?
Models like the Leapmotor T03, Renault 5 E-Tech and BYD Dolphin now start under £27,000, bringing long-range electric mobility into mainstream budgets.
Are cheaper EVs less reliable?
Not necessarily. Most new entrants include eight-year battery warranties and advanced thermal management systems improving durability.
Do these models support all UK chargers?
Yes. All listed models use the standard CCS connector and support DC fast charging compatible with most UK networks.
