If you drive an electric vehicle (EV), the cost of home charging can make a big difference to your running costs. The good news is that dedicated EV tariffs are designed to make charging cheaper, often offering low overnight electricity rates for when demand is lowest.
These smart, time-of-use tariffs can cut your charging costs dramatically compared with standard electricity deals, especially if you charge regularly at home.
Here’s how EV tariffs work, what you’ll need to qualify, and how to compare the best electric car energy deals for your postcode with Simply Switch.
An EV tariff is a specialist electricity plan designed for electric vehicle owners. It uses time-of-use pricing, meaning the cost of electricity varies depending on the time of day.
By shifting your charging to the off-peak window, you can save significantly on your electricity bills, particularly if you drive long distances or charge frequently.
Before you can switch to an EV tariff, you’ll need to meet a few basic requirements.
Most EV tariffs require a smart meter because it records your half-hourly electricity usage, allowing your supplier to bill you accurately for off-peak charging.
While you can technically charge from a standard three-pin plug, a dedicated home charger is safer, faster, and compatible with smart charging features that automatically start and stop during off-peak hours.
Some suppliers ask for proof of EV ownership or limit EV tariffs to existing electricity customers. Always check the tariff’s eligibility criteria before applying.
Once these are in place, switching to an EV tariff is straightforward and usually completed within a few working days.
Many EV owners wonder whether to choose a dedicated EV tariff or stick with Economy 7 or a standard fixed deal.
The best option depends on your driving habits, charging schedule, and total household energy use.
To estimate what you’ll spend on home charging:
Scheduling your charging correctly ensures you make full use of your cheap off-peak hours and avoid peak spillover, which can quickly increase costs.
Small adjustments to your routine can make a big difference in annual running costs.
Switching to an EV tariff is simple, with no interruption to your energy supply.
Here’s what typically happens:
Your new supplier will coordinate the switch, and you won’t lose access to electricity during the process.
An EV tariff can be one of the simplest ways to reduce the running costs of your electric car. With cheaper overnight electricity and smart scheduling, you could save hundreds of pounds per year compared to standard energy rates.
Check your eligibility, make sure you have a smart meter, and compare energy tariffs to see what you could save.
Yes, most EV tariffs require one to track time-of-use data and bill you correctly for off-peak charging.
In most cases, yes. EV tariffs often have lower off-peak rates and shorter, better-aligned night-time windows.
Usually between 11pm and 7am, but this varies by supplier. Some offer flexible windows managed through smart apps.
Yes, provided you’re responsible for the energy bills and have permission to install a home charger if needed.
Not always, but it’s strongly recommended for faster, safer, and more efficient charging.
Often yes – the low off-peak rates are balanced by higher daytime costs. That’s why it’s important to schedule charging overnight.
Yes, many suppliers now offer 100% renewable electricity EV tariffs so you can charge your car sustainably.