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Electric Car Sales in the UK Overtake Diesel

Electric car being charged at a charge point

Earlier this month, the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) released their report on the UK car market. Amongst the most significant findings is the news that battery electric vehicles (BEVs) overtook diesel vehicles to secure their best ever monthly market share in December 2022.

With 32.9% of the market and a total of 16.6% for new car registrations, BEVs have surpassed diesel for the first time ever, and are now second only to petrol vehicles. In combination with the figures on HEVs (hybrid electric vehicles) and plug-in hybrids (PHEVs), this means that average new car CO2 (carbon dioxide) fell by 6.9% to 111.4g/km – the lowest in UK history.

SMMT Report – the overview

Whilst December 2022 was the biggest month in the UK market for battery electric car sales, plug-in hybrids saw a reduction in their annual market share to 6.3%. Hybrid electric vehicles also saw growth, and now make up 11.6% of the market. Diesel sales, meanwhile, plummeted by 38.9%.

The success of electric car sales in the UK is overwhelmingly down to fleets and business buyers. Although private buyers account for over half of all total vehicle registrations, they fall shy of the numbers of fleets and business buyers, who accounted for around 75% of all BEV registrations.

The best-selling electric car in the UK was the Tesla Model Y, followed by the Tesla Model 3 and Kia e-Niro. The Tesla Model Y also ranked as the third best-selling car overall, only after the Nissan Qashqai and Vauxhall Corsa (both of which also have electric models).

Why do private buyers account for so little of UK electric car sales?

Although there’s a concerted effort to ‘green’ Britain’s roads, this report from the SMMT demonstrates an overall reticence amongst private buyers to move to electric vehicles. Quite why private buyers are proving slower to transition to greener vehicles is explainable in a number of ways.

Grants

In 2021, the government announced a series of reductions to electric vehicle subsidy schemes. For example, in December of 2021, the Department for Transport laid out a reduction of £1,000 for buyers making use of financial incentives to fund the upfront cost of a new electric vehicle.

A concurrent reduction was also made to vehicular models eligible for government support, with a maximum limit of £32,000 set down from £35,000. For many private drivers, the initial purchase fee of EVs is prohibitive, which is why government grants and incentives have such a significant place in swaying consumer behaviour. Securing a car loan quote and car finance suited to individual driver needs provides a further way for motorists to invest in electric vehicles.

Charging infrastructure

There are also concerns over public charging infrastructure. According to the SMMT’s report, the government’s EV Infrastructure Strategy forecasts a need for 300,000 to 720,000 charge points in the UK by 2030. To hit 300,000 public chargers by that date, current installation should average at 100 new chargers installed every day, but the current figure is 23.

Supply shortages

Supply chains remain inconsistent – a fact which was also noted by the SMMT as impacting the UK’s overall car market – as a result of semiconductor chip shortages due to disruption caused both by the pandemic and the Russian invasion of Ukraine. This disruption is expected to stabilise as 2023 unfolds.

The result…

Consumers are unlikely to make the switch to electric unless they can be certain that the necessary infrastructure is available, and anxieties about the current cost of electricity also impact overall EV private sales. Given the expensive initial price of EVs, concerns over the provision of public infrastructure, and fears over cost of living, the anxieties of private buyers regarding the move to EVs seem unlikely to be alleviated.

This certainly seems to be the position of Mike Hawes, Chief Executive at the SMTT, who urged the government to encourage the move towards EVs by continuing to invest in nationwide charging infrastructure. As the UK approaches the 2030 petrol ban, after which the sale of new petrol and diesel cars will be banned, the need to invest in UK-wide EV charging infrastructure will become ever more pressing.

Find out how we can help you make the move to electric

Purchasing an EV doesn’t have to be a pipedream. With My Car Credit, it won’t be. We can even work with drivers with poor credit scores – contact us on enquiries@mycarcredit.co.uk to find out how.

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My credit rating

X monthly repayments of
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Typical rate

Loan amount

Total payable

X% APR*

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Representative Example

Borrowing £7,500 at a representative APR of 12.4%, annual interest rate (fixed) 12.36%, 47 monthly payments of £196.44 followed by 1 payment of £206.44 (incl. estimated £10 option to purchase fee), a deposit of £0.00, total cost of credit is £1,939.12, total amount payable is £9,439.12.

Evolution Funding Limited, trading as My Car Credit, is a credit broker and not a lender.

Please ensure you can afford the repayments for the duration of the loan before entering into a credit agreement.

*Initial application is a soft search. Should you progress, some lenders may perform a hard search on your credit file.

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Are Second Hand Electric Cars Worth Buying?

From minimising your environmental footprint to eliminating petrol expenses, electric cars (EVs) offer some seriously good benefits. Purchasing new can be expensive, which leaves many Brits asking the question, “are second hand electric cars worth buying?”

Like any big purchase, it’s important to consider the pros and cons before signing on the dotted line. If you’re thinking about making the switch to electric, or you’re just interested in finding out more about the EV trend, this article is for you.

Read on as we cover everything you need to know about buying second-hand electric cars and whether they’re a good investment.

A nation of EV enthusiasts

Before we get stuck in it’s worth taking a moment to recognise just how popular EVs are becoming in the UK. The nation has wholeheartedly embraced eco-friendly vehicles, with the latest statistics revealing that while overall car sales slumped in 2021, the EV market experienced an impressive growth rate of 66% from 2019.

Around 175,000 new EVs were registered on British roads in 2021, with best-sellers like the Tesla Model 3 representing more than 25,000 individual sales.

In total, more than 700,000 plug-in vehicles were registered by British motorists in November 2021. This includes more than 350,000 fully battery-powered EVs and almost 350,000 plug-in hybrids. These figures put the UK on track to hit more than a million registered EVs by the end of 2022. A huge achievement!

There’s plenty to love about EVs but are second hand electric cars worth buying? Below, we spotlight some key factors to consider when making a decision:

Your lifestyle

Whether you buy new or used, it’s worth factoring in your lifestyle when deciding whether to make the switch to electric. EVs are a terrific concept and do offer “eco prestige” but for some motorists, they’re simply not convenient.

For example, access to off-road parking, so you can easily recharge your EV overnight, is desirable. Many second-hand EVs don’t offer the same rapid-charge technology as newer models, which makes off-road parking essential.

Similarly, if you’re driving long distances a second-hand EV may not offer the same impressive mileage as a newer model. That said, EV mileage is rapidly improving which means models from 2021 or 2020 may easily meet your needs.

Financial benefits

Even second-hand electric vehicles can be expensive, with Karolina Edwards-Smajda, Retailer & Consumer Product Director at Auto Trader describing the market as a “catch-22” in a recent interview with Car Magazine.

“When it comes to low-emission vehicles, the industry is facing a Catch-22 situation,” says Karolina. “The growing appetite of AFVs [alternative fuel vehicles] offer the industry a great opportunity for growth, but for mass adoption, the average price needs to be more accessible to more people. However, with so few vehicles in the market, even second-hand cars are being pushed out of financial reach for most consumers.”

Karolina makes a good point, but it’s important to remember that the cost of your purchase will be offset by several factors. These include:

Savings at the forecourt

Buy a fully battery-powered second-hand EV and you’ll eliminate petrol expenses from your life completely.

Clean air zones

Cities across the UK are introducing clean air zones designed to deter emissions-heavy vehicles and encourage the use of public transport and EVs. Driving a second-hand EV can be a savvy way to sidestep the costs associated with entering areas like Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ) in London, which can cost you £12.50 per day if your car doesn’t meet ULEZ standards.

Lower registration costs

When it comes to vehicle registration costs, the Department for Transport offers big savings for EV drivers.

Budget is important, so don’t forget to do the maths and calculate how much you can afford to borrow before browsing. Our car loan APR estimator is designed to streamline the process and make it as easy as possible to crunch the numbers.

Skipping long wait times

The global semiconductor chip shortage has wreaked havoc on the car manufacturing industry and EVs are no exception. The average EV calls for hundreds, sometimes even thousands, of these tiny chips. As a result, supply can’t keep up with demand which means you could face wait times of more than a year when buying a new electric car. Buying a used EV is a clever way to skip the long wait times and get behind the wheel of an electric car ASAP.

The best second-hand EVs to buy

While demand is high and supply is low, there are still some great deals to be had when it comes to second-hand electric cars. If you take the time to shop around and back your search with help from an expert broker, you can drastically increase your chances of securing a good deal.

There are some exciting used models up for grabs in 2022, with some of our favourites listed below. All offer great value for money and excellent stats in terms of mileage and driver-friendly features:

Nissan Leaf
Tesla Model 3
BMW i3
Volkswagen eGolf
Tesla Model S
Jaguar i-Pace
Citroen C-Zero
Renault ZOE
Smart ForFour electric

The future of the EV market

Despite the semiconductor chip shortage that’s caused supply issues around the world, analysts predict a bright future for the EV market. In 2022, you can expect to see almost 50 new EV models launched by manufacturers, including a huge range of SUVs. Keep an eye out for models by leading manufacturers such as Tesla, Volkswagen, BMW, Audi, and Mercedes.

We’re also excited to see new offerings from companies like Lucid, Aiways, Fisker and Rivian. These high-voltage newcomers are set to shake up the market and challenge the dominance of EV giants such as Tesla and Nissan in the UK. This is great news for the second-hand market, with an influx of new models set to increase supply and bring prices down.

Financing your second-hand electric car

Ready to start your search for a second-hand EV? Whether you’re in the market for a zippy Nissan Leaf or a sleek Jaguar I-Pace, we’re here to help. Apply online without impacting your credit score or get in touch via email or phone 01246 458 810 to find out more about how our team of advisors can help you supercharge your search and secure the best deals on EV finance.

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X monthly repayments of
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Typical rate

Loan amount

Total payable

X% APR*

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Representative Example

Borrowing £7,500 at a representative APR of 12.4%, annual interest rate (fixed) 12.36%, 47 monthly payments of £196.44 followed by 1 payment of £206.44 (incl. estimated £10 option to purchase fee), a deposit of £0.00, total cost of credit is £1,939.12, total amount payable is £9,439.12.

Evolution Funding Limited, trading as My Car Credit, is a credit broker and not a lender.

Please ensure you can afford the repayments for the duration of the loan before entering into a credit agreement.

*Initial application is a soft search. Should you progress, some lenders may perform a hard search on your credit file.

Require more help?

Got a question you can’t find the answer to, or need some advice and guidance around taking out car finance? Our Car Credit Specialists are friendly, experienced, and here to help so get in touch today!

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Petrol and Diesel Ban – What It Means for Car Buying

Petrol station in mist following the 2030 petrol and diesel ban

The sale of new petrol and diesel cars in the UK will end by 2030. A lot has happened in the last 12 months, so this might have escaped you when it was first released. However, it’s essential for motorists to understand what they can and can’t purchase before they enter negotiations.

The last thing you want is to waste money on a vehicle that is basically prohibited. Therefore, it’s imperative to look into what the petrol and diesel ban means and how it might affect you in the future.

The petrol and diesel ban – what is it?

The petrol and diesel ban is pretty much what it says on the tin. The government is attempting to lower carbon emissions and cut the UK’s CO2 footprint by acting against non-electric vehicles. EVs are notoriously eco-friendly since they don’t use fossil fuels to create energy. Instead, they run off a battery that’s powered by electricity.

Originally, the ban was scheduled for 2035. However, the government has seen fit to bring it forward five years. That means you won’t be able to buy a new car that runs off diesel or petrol in the UK from 2030.

What about old cars?

You can still drive petrol and diesel vehicles after this date. The ban only applies to cars that are being manufactured. This means that the latest makes and models won’t be available in these traditional specs. Of course, if the smell of petrol wakes you up in the morning, you can always opt for a second-hand or used motor.

Additionally, hybrid vehicles aren’t currently included in the ban. As a result, you will be able to purchase a hybrid car with a diesel or petrol engine and switch between modes.

What impact will the ban have on UK motorists?

There are a number of expected knock-on effects of the petrol and diesel ban. The first is an increase in the purchase of EVs. With new petrol and diesel cars out of bounds, the only way to get your hands on a brand spanking new vehicle is to go electric.

Secondly, this should mean the production of EVs ramps up a notch. That should also see the costs involved in buying and leasing electric cars plummet dramatically. This is because the technology will be more accessible, making EVs cheaper to manufacture. From a buying perspective, you should notice a significant drop in the fees associated with owning or renting an EV.

Let My Car Credit help you

When it comes to spreading the cost of a new car, customers always have one question at the back of their minds – how much does car finance cost? While there isn’t a one-size-fits-all rate, if EVs are less expensive to run and operate, they’ll be cheaper to buy too.

At My Car Credit, we’re committed to finding a great deal for customers based on their specific circumstances. Maybe you’ve got a great credit history and want to stick with petrol or you’re ready to make the switch but worried about your credit score. Whichever, simply get in touch with our team and we’ll guide you through the car finance process.

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Loan amount

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Representative Example

Borrowing £7,500 at a representative APR of 12.4%, annual interest rate (fixed) 12.36%, 47 monthly payments of £196.44 followed by 1 payment of £206.44 (incl. estimated £10 option to purchase fee), a deposit of £0.00, total cost of credit is £1,939.12, total amount payable is £9,439.12.

Evolution Funding Limited, trading as My Car Credit, is a credit broker and not a lender.

Please ensure you can afford the repayments for the duration of the loan before entering into a credit agreement.

*Initial application is a soft search. Should you progress, some lenders may perform a hard search on your credit file.

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2030 Petrol Ban – Should You Make the Switch Early?

Man filling up with petrol before the 2030 petrol ban

From Tesla to Toyota, electric vehicles (EVs) and plug-in hybrid vehicles (PHEVs) are becoming increasingly popular as consumers endeavour to make more climate-conscious choices.

In fact, the sales of EVs and PHEVs tripled in October 2020, compared to their sales in October 2019. They account for one in seven new cars sold – a fact that has been acknowledged and perhaps encouraged by the increasing availability of charging points across the country.

But from 2030, the petrol and diesel ban will be in place – with hybrids joining the restrictions from 2035. If you own a petrol, diesel or hybrid car, it may be time to consider whether you want to make the switch to an electric vehicle early, in order to save you the time and hassle closer to the deadline. Below, we take you through the benefits of making this decision sooner rather than later, as well as outlining what the 2030 petrol ban really is.

What is the 2030 petrol and diesel ban?

From 2030, new cars and vans powered exclusively by either petrol or diesel won’t be sold in the UK. Some PHEVS – notably the Toyota Prius – will continue to be sold until 2035, when they will also be banned. This is contingent on these cars being able to achieve a ‘significant distance’ of travel in zero-emission mode. At present, the Government hasn’t yet clarified what that term exactly means.

The only new cars and vans for sale after 2035 will be exclusively electric vehicles, such as the Nissan Leaf or Tesla Model 3, and hydrogen-powered vehicles like the Toyota Mirai.

However, the 2030 petrol ban only applies to the sale of brand-new vehicles. Nearly new or used vehicles – that is, second-hand ones – won’t be affected by the ban, and can continue to be sold in showrooms or online. Hybrid cars which can travel ‘significant’ distances in zero emission mode will also still be allowed to be sold on the used marketplace.

What are the benefits of switching early?

There are a number of reasons that it might be advantageous to start thinking about your vehicle before the ban comes in – particularly if you’re in possession of a petrol or diesel car.

Benefit from tax incentives

In order to help the move to EVs, the government is setting aside £582 million in grants to facilitate the transfer to EVs and PHEVs. At present, the government subsidises £3,000 from the purchase of EVs. The government is likely to extend the period during which this is offered, but the transport secretary has acknowledged that it will ‘go eventually’. By making the switch early, you’re more likely to see some of this funding, which can then help you fund a new vehicle.

Get a higher resale value for petrol or diesel cars

As 2030 approaches, manufacturers are likely to offer significant discounts on new models, as they attempt to shift them before the ban comes into place. Consequently, the resale values of traditional combustion engine vehicles are expected to be hit. Getting in early and reselling your car will therefore be more financially forward-thinking. You’ll also avoid any potential tax increases for petrol and diesel vehicles further down the line.

Avoid disruption

When the 2030 petrol ban comes in, there will inevitably be some disruption as drivers get their heads around the way that EVs and certified PHEVs work. For example, drivers will have to get used to charging their cars using either public networks or domestic plug-ins. Travel times will possibly have to be amended – particularly for long distance journeys – in order to accommodate charging, too. By making the switch early, you’ll be more comfortable with how EVS work, and where your local charging point is.

Preparing for the 2030 petrol ban

If you’re looking to make the switch to an electric vehicle, My Car Credit is on hand to help. With our car finance checker, you can check your eligibility without affecting your credit score, before comparing deals from our wide panel of lenders for all circumstances. To find out more, call our friendly team on 01246 458 810.

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Loan amount

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Representative Example

Borrowing £7,500 at a representative APR of 12.4%, annual interest rate (fixed) 12.36%, 47 monthly payments of £196.44 followed by 1 payment of £206.44 (incl. estimated £10 option to purchase fee), a deposit of £0.00, total cost of credit is £1,939.12, total amount payable is £9,439.12.

Evolution Funding Limited, trading as My Car Credit, is a credit broker and not a lender.

Please ensure you can afford the repayments for the duration of the loan before entering into a credit agreement.

*Initial application is a soft search. Should you progress, some lenders may perform a hard search on your credit file.

Require more help?

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Hybrid vs Plug-in Hybrid: What’s the Difference?

Tesla as an option in Hybrid vs Plug-in Hybrid

The need to find a car that is practical and helps the planet is getting greater with every passing day. As someone who wants to drive responsibly, it’s essential to find a vehicle that covers all the bases. If you’ve done your research, you’ll know that hybrid cars are very popular.

However, it’s not as straightforward as opting for the first model you find because there are different types, such as a classic hybrid and a plug-in hybrid. Which one should you choose when it comes down to hybrid vs plug-in hybrid? Here’s our advice.

The differences

As the name suggests, the two vehicles are similar in lots of ways because they use technology that is related. However, there are differences you must be aware of before you sign on the dotted line.

Hybrid cars

Hybrids are famous thanks to the release of the Toyota Prius, the poster boy of the hybrid era. The technology has been around for longer, too, which is why you might have heard of them over plug-in hybrids. Essentially, the key distinction is that a classic hybrid uses an electric motor and a fuel-burning engine to power the vehicle while it’s on the move.

Why? It’s for several reasons, but the main one is that the fuel element of the engine gives hybrid cars more range. This isn’t only because it runs on petrol or diesel, but because the fuel recharges the electric motor when it isn’t in use. Hybrids do this through regenerative braking, where the battery charges up every time you press the brake pedal.

Plug-in hybrid cars

A plug-in hybrid has the same elements, yet it can’t do the same things as a regular hybrid. The reason for this is that the electric power unit in a plug-in model is much larger than in normal hybrids. Therefore, the fuel engine can’t charge it up when it isn’t in use, meaning it must be recharged at a plug-in station like an electric vehicle (EV).

What are the benefits?

Straight away, it’s worth noting that both models enable you to drive using electric power, which is much better for the environment. Hybrids epitomise this as they leverage electricity to reduce drivers’ fuel economy. For example, the electric motor kicks in at slow speeds, such as in traffic or towns and cities, allowing you to get around without using the fuel-burning engine.

However, plug-ins have more electric energy because they need charging directly from an EV charger, which means they can drive longer distances on a single charge. Of course, it takes longer to top up the motor, yet new powerful chargers mean it shouldn’t be longer than twenty-five minutes.

Hybrid vs plug-in hybrid: which is best for you?

The verdict for hybrid vs plug-in hybrid depends on your circumstances. If you require a run-around vehicle for getting around town, a hybrid is perfect as it has a lower range that you can use to complete your entire journey. Plug-in hybrids, on the other hand, use a full electric charge, which means they can go farther for longer and give off very low CO2 emissions.

Whichever you choose, our range of finance options at My Car Credit will ensure that you find the most suitable deal for your needs. With our car finance calculator, you can work out how much your repayments will be to the penny. Plus, finance means you don’t have to save up to land the vehicle of your dreams.

Call us now for more information and to speak to a knowledgeable member of our team!

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Typical rate

Loan amount

Total payable

X% APR*

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Representative Example

Borrowing £7,500 at a representative APR of 12.4%, annual interest rate (fixed) 12.36%, 47 monthly payments of £196.44 followed by 1 payment of £206.44 (incl. estimated £10 option to purchase fee), a deposit of £0.00, total cost of credit is £1,939.12, total amount payable is £9,439.12.

Evolution Funding Limited, trading as My Car Credit, is a credit broker and not a lender.

Please ensure you can afford the repayments for the duration of the loan before entering into a credit agreement.

*Initial application is a soft search. Should you progress, some lenders may perform a hard search on your credit file.

Require more help?

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Going Green: Should I Buy a Hybrid Car?

With the government banning petrol and diesel vehicles from 2030, more and more people are considering an upgrade to a hybrid car. But given how long we’ve been reliant on petrol and diesel; hybrids are still something many drivers are unfamiliar with. This leads many to ask the question: “Should I buy a hybrid car?”.

This article will explain what hybrid vehicles are, how they work and their benefits. Hopefully this will help you decide whether or not to make the switch.

What is a hybrid car?

First off, there are two main types of hybrid vehicle – plug-in hybrid cars and self-charging hybrids. Plug-in models need to be plugged in in order to charge. In contrast, self-charging models will charge the battery whilst you’re driving.

Hybrid cars differ from electric vehicles in a vital way. While an electric vehicle is entirely powered by a battery that needs charging, hybrid vehicles have both a normal engine and a battery. In a hybrid car, the battery will tend to be used when you set off from a stand-still, when you’re driving at a lower speed or on shorter journeys. Plug-in hybrid cars can also travel further than conventional hybrids when they’re using solely electric power, which saves you money on refuelling costs.

What are the benefits of a hybrid car?

There are several reasons why hybrid cars are increasingly popular with consumers, including:

Greener

With an electric battery to complement their fuel-burning engine, hybrid cars are greener than non-electric vehicles. Hybrid cars minimise your carbon emissions whilst maintaining fuel efficiency, with self-charging hybrids making use of energy that would otherwise be wasted.

Cheaper

Provided that your hybrid emits less than 100g/km of carbon dioxide, you’ll benefit from free road tax. As long as they cost less than £40,000, new hybrid vehicles or PHEVs will also cost £10 less than a fuel-powered alternative on road tax.

Reliable

Hybrid cars are frequently more reliable than either petrol or diesel vehicles because of their electric fuel cell. When you’re driving slowly, the car will use this as its energy source, meaning that there’s less wear and tear on the engine – as well as less CO2 emitted. Similarly, because of the way that hybrid cars use their brakes to generate energy, you could drive around without much using your standard brakes. This significantly reduces impact, which will save you money on brake maintenance and upkeep.

Driving range

Compared to exclusively electric vehicles, hybrid cars have a significantly greater driving range. Plus, self-charging hybrid cars generate power as you drive, meaning they’ll never run out of charge.

Value

Once you’ve finished the terms of your car finance, you might be keen to upgrade your vehicle. Both hybrids and PHEVs are great for this, as they hold their value well over time. This means you’re likely to recoup a lot of the money that you put down when you re-sell it – particularly as hybrids are such popular models with high demand. Toyota and Lexus hybrids are particularly well-known for holding their value.

Should I buy a hybrid car?

Whether or not you should buy a hybrid car depends on two main factors. If you want to be greener, and reduce your carbon emissions, then yes, purchasing a hybrid car would be a sensible decision. Similarly, if most of your journeys are short – for example, around urban areas – then hybrid vehicles are great, as you’re mostly running on electricity and therefore saving money.

However, if you travel a lot on motorways or have very long journeys, a hybrid is potentially less fuel efficient than a diesel car – but it will produce far fewer emissions.

Find car finance for a hybrid car today

Car finance is a key factor for many drivers considering a hybrid car, with some worrying the choice will affect their car finance options. Thankfully, it won’t.

Whether you’re looking for a hybrid (HEV) or a plug-in hybrid (PHEV), your car finance journey with My Car Credit will be just as straightforward as it would with a non-hybrid vehicle.

Simply fill in our car finance calculator and adjust the variables according to the type of loan and repayment terms that you’re looking for. Our online form will give you an answer in minutes, and with us, the rate you see is the rate you get. There’ll be no surprise costs or confusing paperwork.

If you’d rather speak to a person about your hybrid car finance, one of our friendly car credit specialists would be happy to answer your questions. Just call 01246 458 810 to start your journey today.

Rates from 9.9% APR. Representative APR 12.4%

Evolution Funding Ltd T/A My Car Credit

How Quickly Can You Buy a Car?

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What’s the Best Month to Buy a Car?

Loan amount

£

Repayment term

My credit rating

X monthly repayments of
^£X

Typical rate

Loan amount

Total payable

X% APR*

£X

*for illustration purposes only

No impact on your credit score*

Representative Example

Borrowing £7,500 at a representative APR of 12.4%, annual interest rate (fixed) 12.36%, 47 monthly payments of £196.44 followed by 1 payment of £206.44 (incl. estimated £10 option to purchase fee), a deposit of £0.00, total cost of credit is £1,939.12, total amount payable is £9,439.12.

Evolution Funding Limited, trading as My Car Credit, is a credit broker and not a lender.

Please ensure you can afford the repayments for the duration of the loan before entering into a credit agreement.

*Initial application is a soft search. Should you progress, some lenders may perform a hard search on your credit file.

Require more help?

Got a question you can’t find the answer to, or need some advice and guidance around taking out car finance? Our Car Credit Specialists are friendly, experienced, and here to help so get in touch today!

or call 01246 458 810

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8 New Electric Cars Coming Out in 2021

The UK government has brought forward their ban on the sale of new petrol and diesel cars. Now coming into force from 2030, the ban aims to lower carbon emissions and help reduce our impact on the environment. Hybrid cars are also now being included in this proposal, with the sale of new hybrids being banned from 2035. So, what does this mean for your car moving forward?

While these cars can still be driven until 2050, they will eventually be eliminated from the roads entirely. With that in mind, 2021 could be the perfect year to make the switch to electric. To encourage those replacing their cars to make the change, the government is offering a £3,000 electric car grant to help towards the cost of vehicles up to £50,000.

Thankfully, car manufacturers are doing their bit to facilitate the switch too – releasingplenty of new models year upon year. 2021 is no exception, with a selection of great electric vehicles boasting impressive efficiency, mileage range and aesthetics. Read on as we look at eight impressive electric cars coming out in 2021.

1. Citroen e-C4

The latest generation Citroen C4 goes on sale in early 2021. For the first time, the C4 is available in an entirely electric model, perfect for fitting in with the upcoming new proposal and keeping your emissions low. You can expect to reach 0-62mph in 9.7 seconds, with a top speed of 93mph. You can even get 217 miles out of one full charge, giving you enough mileage for most trips.

2. Fiat 500

We’ve all heard of, seen and maybe even driven the classic Fiat 500. The unique design is recognisable across the globe. But in 2021, there is a new model coming to the market that is in keeping with the fuel-efficiency needed in today’s society. Available in four models, the Fiat 500 electric vehicles have a range of features, including panoramic sunroof, lane control, traffic sign recognition and fast charge. The maximum charge only provides 84 miles, however, so may be better suited to city living.

3. Volvo XC40 Recharge

This new model is Volvo’s first ever electric vehicle. The twin electric motors deliver 402bhp and you can get an impressive 248 miles for each charge. The car is certainly nippy too, reaching 62mph in just 4.9 seconds, with a near silent engine giving you a smooth drive every time.

4. Audi RS E-tron GT

If you’re after a sportier design that can get you from A to B in style, the Audi RS E-tron GT is the one for you. This new electric car uses a 96kWh battery, that will get you 248 miles of range out of each charge. And the car is as quick as it is eco-friendly, taking you to 62mph in under 3.5 seconds. If you’re looking to help reduce your carbon footprint whilst maintaining the speed, look and feel of your car, this new Audi is the perfect choice.

5. Mazda MX-30

For something a little more affordable, yet still fuel-efficient and stylish, the new electric Mazda replicates the feel of driving a traditional engine without the emissions. The reasonable price point, combined with the electric car grant, this is a great choice for families, young professionals or those looking for the ideal run-around. The Mazda will give you 130 miles of range from each charge, so is ideal for those doing shorter journeys or for city living.

6. Ford Mustang Mach-E

The new Ford Mustang has caused a little controversy ahead of its release in early 2021. As the first electric car to be named after the iconic Mustang, it has a unique body-style that has sparked question amongst Mustang fans. This model is one of the quickest of our list, hitting 60mph in 5.5 seconds. A full GT model is expected to be released later in 2021 that is expected to be even quicker.

7. Nissan Ariya

Following on from the hugely popular Nissan Leaf, which was the company’s first electric model, the Ariya is set to have even more of an impact. Coming in the latter half of 2021, this SUV can give you up to 310 miles of range out of just one charge, making it the most efficient of the cars in this list. The twin-motor engine is relatively quick too, covering 0-62mph in 5.1 seconds.

8. Skoda Enyaq iV

This fully electric SUV comes in two different battery sizes, giving you between 242 and 316 miles from one charge. The new Skoda will be available to buy in the UK from early 2021, giving you plenty of time to search for the perfect model. With the UK plug-in car grant, you can even get a bit of financial help setting up an electric car charging point at your home.

Securing your dream car

While the Government’s £3,000 grant makes the switch to electric a bit easier on the bank balance, most people will still need a bit of help paying for their car up front. That’s where My Car Credit can lend a hand.

We compare deals from a network of 27 trusted lenders to find you an affordable way to pay for your car in monthly installments. Everything can be done online for your convenience, meaning you’re just a few clicks away from the best electric cars coming out in 2021. Check your car finance eligibility online today or get in touch with our team for more information.

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Hybrid or Electric Cars: The Pros and Cons Compared

These days, we’re all a bit more conscious of our environmental footprint. While we can’t all move off-grid and live off the land, we can make smarter decisions in our everyday habits. A great number of motorists are torn by this very notion when selecting their next set of wheels – hybrid or electric car? Whether you’re looking for greener transportation or a future-proof vehicle, here is a detailed look at the advantages and drawbacks of hybrid and electric vehicles.

Hybrid or electric cars

The greener car revolution is revving up Britain, and the polluting oil-powered vehicles are being replaced by eco-friendly electric and hybrid models. Electric and semi-electric cars can still be relatively expensive to buy, but thanks to government grants, road tax breaks, low running costs and cheaper models entering the market, they are becoming more accessible for every motorist.

Electric vehicles (EVs) are powered solely by electricity, instead of relying on petrol or diesel. They contain an electric battery pack that provides power to run all of the vehicle’s onboard electronics, including the motor, that needs to be recharged regularly. No different to how you would charge a smartphone or laptop! Electric cars can either be 100 percent electric or combined with a traditional gas-powered engine to form a hybrid car.

Hybrid cars, in theory, give you the low emissions and smooth power delivery of an electric car along with the long-distance abilities of a traditional petrol or diesel car.

Hybrid

Pros:

Hybrid vehicles use a combination of electricity and petrol/diesel for power. In turn, the hybrid emits less pollution than a traditional car, earning itself great green credentials.
Hybrid systems use a process called regenerative braking. Instead of wasting braking energy like most vehicles, the hybrid captures it and then feeds it back into the battery. This system increases the electric motor’s charge which also helps it to consume less fuel, especially when driving around town where you use the brakes frequently.
Because a hybrid electric car is so efficient, you have less dependence on petrol station stops. In turn, it reduces your need for oil, which helps to lower the demand and dependency for petrol pumps.
If you haven’t driven a hybrid vehicle before, chances are you’re in for a real shock the first few times you start it. It is incredibly quiet, and you would be forgiven for not realising the car was on.

Cons:

Because hybrid vehicles have a dual engine and advanced technology, it can be challenging for mechanics to repair these vehicles confidently. You may need to find a mechanic with the relevant expertise.
Hybrid vehicles run on twin-powered engines, which means that the diesel or petrol engine is considerably smaller than a traditional internal combustion engine in an oil-powered car. Generally, this means that hybrids are better suited to city driving rather than motorway or rural driving.
Most hybrids are built for economy, not speed. Total output and acceleration of hybrids seem to fall behind oil-only vehicles.

Electric

Pros:

Electric vehicles benefit the environment the most since they generate zero emissions directly. The electrical system powers the motor that turns the wheels, as well as all the associated electrical items like lights and air conditioning. This scores big points in terms of benefits to the environment. If that electricity is generated renewably, they have the potential to run without fossil fuels.
Motorists of electric cars get to save time and money at the pump. If you charge the vehicle at home, then you get to bypass the fuel station altogether, saving you precious time.
Most electric cars are tax free, which means you get to save, on average, £140 annually when compared with a petrol or diesel car.
Generally, electric cars have lower maintenance costs because there are fewer moving parts. They don’t need oil changes and other service items. This longevity helps motorists keep traveling for longer over the years.

Cons:

One of the largest drawbacks of electric cars is their mileage range. Most electric vehicles run only for around 100 miles on a charge, depending on the vehicle, speed and other variables. An exception to this rule would be the Tesla Model S, which can hold around 150 miles per charge. Those motorists with longer commutes may want to consider hybrids.
Nationwide, there are over 30,000 charging points in the UK. While the electric car’s sat-nav will find a charging point for you, most are found in urban areas. There is a cost to use these charging points, too.
If you’re driving across the country and need to charge the car, you may want to grab a book and some food. The charging time is nowhere near as quick as filling the car up with petrol. The time depends on the make and model, as well as how powerful the charger is. Home wall chargers start at around £500 and will give you between 15 and 30 miles’ charge per hour.

Financing your next EV

A large incentive to purchase a fully electric vehicle or a hybrid is the government grant. The gov.uk website provides full comprehensive information on this, but, in short, you can get a grant towards the cost of a new electric car, though conditions apply. They also offer a grant of up to £500 for installing a home EV charger to further reduce the upfront investment. Such financial support makes EVs that much more affordable and appealing to a large number of motorists.

Are you ready for your next electric or hybrid vehicle? Use this car finance calculator to see how much you could borrow to land the right car loan for your needs.

At My Car Credit, we make it easy to go green and get behind the wheel or a hybrid or electric vehicle. With cost-effective car financing options, we work with motorists who have a range of budgets and credit ratings. Give us a call on 01246 458 810 or email enquiries@mycarcredit.co.uk to find out how to get started.

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Which Cars Will be Popular Post-COVID?

A white car in a dealership of popular cars

COVID-19 has affected every area of our lives, from how we interact with others to how we travel. Unsurprisingly, it's also changed the way we shop, even for costly purchases like new and used cars. Now, more people than ever are swapping showrooms for virtual auctions, digital catalogues and online marketplaces.

However, the virus’s seismic impact on the automotive industry extends far beyond how we buy cars – it’s also changed what cars we want to drive. In this post, we’ll discuss which cars will be popular in the coming months and years.

Used cars over new

When you think of popular cars, you might imagine stylish new models equipped with the latest technology. However, the current instability of the job market and subsequent financial strain is leading many to buy quality used or nearly new cars instead.

Even before COVID-19, affordability was the leading factor in why people purchased used cars. Not only is the initial price much lower (often between 30-50%), maintenance and insurance are usually cheaper too. Additionally, thanks to the current travel restrictions, manufacturers are experiencing difficulties with international imports, resulting in lengthy delays to purchase new models.

Motorists are going green

With fewer cars on the road, creating a never-ending symphony of bangs, clatters and roars, many people rediscovered the joys of birdsong during lockdown, with experts dubbing it the “silent spring”. However, it’s not just noise pollution that cleared up considerably. London’s smog vanished, fish reappeared in the typically murky waters of the Venice canals and coyotes casually wandered across the Golden Gate Bridge.

The virus showed us what life could look like if we lived more in accordance with nature, revealing a greener world where human activity was much less intrusive. As a result, many people started to think about how they could preserve this peace moving forward, starting with how they travel.

According to one study on over 1,000 people in the UK, 25% of motorists want to purchase an eco-friendly vehicle after seeing a decline in pollution during lockdown. Those from key cities, such as London, Liverpool and Sheffield, are especially keen to make the switch. Official figures cited in The Times bolster the study’s findings, showing 33,000 pure electric and hybrid cars were registered between April and June, compared with 29,900 diesels.

Focus on family-friendly models

Thanks to the current travel restrictions, people are swapping holidays in far-flung locations for trusty staycations, increasing the demand for reliable, family-friendly cars. 

Recent research shows 90% of UK holidaymakers are planning to take a domestic holiday once the government lifts coronavirus restrictions. Therefore, people are now searching for cars that prioritise space, number of miles per gallon and all-weather performance over gadgets, gizmos and garish designs. What’s more, the increase in finance plans means finding an affordable family-friendly car has never been easier.

How we can help

Whatever car you’re looking for, our goal at My Car Credit is to make securing car finance as simple and accessible as possible.

To find out how we can help you, give us a call on 01246 458 810 or drop us an email at enquiries@mycarcredit.co.uk. One of our knowledgeable team members will get back to you as soon as possible. 

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Earlier this month, the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) released their report on the UK car market. Amongst the most significant findings is the news that battery electric vehicles (BEVs) overtook diesel vehicles to secure their best ever monthly market share in December 2022.

SMMT Report – the overview

Why do private buyers account for so little of UK electric car sales?

Grants

Charging infrastructure

Supply shortages

The result…

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From minimising your environmental footprint to eliminating petrol expenses, electric cars (EVs) offer some seriously good benefits. Purchasing new can be expensive, which leaves many Brits asking the question, “are second hand electric cars worth buying?”

A nation of EV enthusiasts

Your lifestyle

Financial benefits

Skipping long wait times

The best second-hand EVs to buy

The future of the EV market

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1. Citroen e-C4