Driving Uber in London is more competitive than ever, and many drivers are now thinking about using luxury or electric PCO cars. These cars help you get higher fares with Uber Exec or Lux. Electric cars also save money on fuel and meet the clean air rules set by TFL. Picking the right car can really change how much you earn and how passengers rate you.
Today, we will discuss the top luxury and electric PCO cars. We will also compare PCO car hire and the rent to buy option, as well as tips on choosing the right one.
Why Choose Luxury or Electric PCO Cars in London?
When you drive in London, the car you choose can really shape your earnings and your passengers’ experience. More and more Uber drivers are moving towards luxury and electric PCO cars, and there are good reasons for it.
Benefits of Luxury Cars
Luxury cars open doors to Uber Exec or Lux rides, which usually mean higher fares. Passengers also feel more comfortable, which often leads to better tips and ratings. A smart choice if you want to make an impression.
Benefits of Electric Cars
Electric cars help you save money because charging is cheaper than fuel. They also avoid the London congestion charge, which is a big win. For example, a Tesla Model 3 can cost around £15 to fully charge, while a full tank of petrol for a similar-sized car might cost over £70. That is a big saving every week. Plus, Uber supports drivers who switch to electric through their Clean Air Plan.
TFL Requirements for PCO & EV Cars
Transport for London’s rules for private hire vehicles (PHVs) keep getting stricter to improve air quality and safety. As of now:
- Any vehicle applying for a PHV licence for the first time must be Zero Emission Capable (ZEC) and meet Euro 6 emissions standards.
- To show your car is ZEC, you’ll need documents like the V5C registration, the manufacturer’s certificate of conformity, or proof of registration in TfL’s Cleaner Vehicle Discount (CVD) register.
- For existing PHVs (cars already licenced before the rule change), they don’t necessarily have to be ZEC, but there are still age limits and renewal rules to follow.
- PHVs travelling in the Ultra-Low Emission Zone (ULEZ) must meet specific emissions standards (petrol: Euro 4, diesel: Euro 6), or pay a daily charge.
- For Uber and similar services, many drivers are choosing cars under 10 years old, as many PHV / ride-share rules favour newer vehicles.
When selecting a luxury or electric PCO car, ensure it qualifies as ZEC, meets Euro 6 standards, and is sufficiently new to meet TFL’s age requirements.
Best Luxury PCO Cars Available for Hire
If you want to give passengers a first-class ride and unlock higher-paying Uber categories. In that case, luxury PCO cars are a strong choice. They are popular for business trips, airport runs, and special occasions, which usually means more earnings for you. Let’s look at the best options available in London.
Mercedes V-Class PCO Hire
The Mercedes V-Class is one of the most in-demand cars for Uber Exec and Uber XL. With up to 7 seats, it is perfect for airport transfers, family trips, or group travel. Passengers often pay extra for comfort and space, which can result in higher tips. On average, weekly hire costs range from £250 to £350, but drivers often make this back with just a few long rides.
BMW 7 Series PCO Hire
The BMW 7 Series is known for its executive comfort and smooth long-distance driving. Many Uber Exec passengers prefer it for corporate journeys. We charge around £300 per week for this PCO car hire. Still, fares for executive trips are often higher compared to regular UberX. We also provide rides to drivers who hire a car from us. With features like leather interiors and advanced safety tech, it leaves a strong impression on passengers.
Tesla Model S or Model X for PCO
Tesla cars combine both luxury and electric savings. The Model S and Model X qualify for Uber Lux, which offers some of the highest fares available. Although hire costs can be above £350 per week, charging is much cheaper than petrol.
For example, a full charge on a Tesla Model S costs about £20. In contrast, a similar-sized petrol luxury car might cost £90 to refuel. That difference adds up quickly for full-time drivers.
For full details on what vehicles qualify for Uber Exec and Lux, it is always best to check the Uber UK vehicle requirements before making a choice.
Best Electric PCO Cars for Uber Drivers
Electric cars are becoming a popular choice for PCO drivers in London. They save money on running costs, avoid congestion charges, and also meet Transport for London’s clean air goals. Many drivers also find that passengers enjoy the smooth, quiet ride of EVs. Let’s look at some of the best options.
Tesla Model 3 / Model Y
The Tesla Model 3 and Model Y are among the most common electric cars used by Uber drivers. They qualify for Uber Exec and sometimes Uber Lux, which means higher fares. Weekly hire costs start at around £200 to £400, while rent-to-buy plans are also available with no credit check options. A full charge costs roughly £15, compared to £70–£80 for a tank of petrol, which can save drivers over £200 per month.
Mercedes EQE PCO Rent to Buy
The Mercedes EQE is a premium electric car that fits perfectly into the Uber Exec category. It offers long-range, luxury interiors, and is ideal for business-class trips. Rent-to-buy deals usually start from around £250 to £300 per week, but the long-term benefit is owning a car that keeps its value. Drivers often prefer this option if they plan to stay in the business for years.
Other EV Options
Not every driver wants to start with a Tesla or Mercedes. Affordable but reliable choices include the Kia EV6, Hyundai Ioniq 5, and Volkswagen ID.4. These models cost less to hire, often £180 to £220 per week, and still meet Uber’s electric requirements. They are also popular for Uber Comfort and UberX, giving drivers flexibility with lower upfront costs.
To explore charging locations across London, you can use apps to find charging points near you.
Rent to Buy or Hire – Which is Better for Uber Drivers?
Choosing between rent-to-buy and car hire is one of the biggest decisions for PCO drivers. Both options have clear benefits, but the right choice depends on your budget, working hours, and long-term plans.
Rent to Buy Explained
Rent-to-own means you pay a weekly fee until you own the car outright. Many companies now offer no-credit-check schemes, which makes it easier for new drivers to get started. For example, a Tesla Model Y rent-to-buy plan may cost around £250 per week over 4 years and require a deposit at the start. At the end, you own the car, which means no more rental payments. It is a good option if you plan to drive with Uber for the long term.
PCO Car Hire Explained
Hiring gives you flexibility because you only commit week by week. Insurance, road tax, and maintenance are usually included, which saves you stress. For instance, hiring a Mercedes may cost around £300 per week, but you can return it at any time if your situation changes. This is useful if you are new to Uber or want to test the market.
Which Option is Best?
If you want to own a car and build long-term value, rent-to-buy is often the better choice. You will pay more up front, but in the end, you will have an asset. If you prefer short-term flexibility or are unsure how long you will drive with Uber, hiring is a safer option. A good rule is to compare your average weekly earnings against these costs. For example, if you earn £1,000 a week, a £250 rent-to-buy plan is just 25% of your income, which is reasonable.
Cost Breakdown – Luxury & EV PCO Cars
Understanding the actual cost of running a PCO car is key before making a decision. The weekly price is only part of the story. Fuel or charging, maintenance, and extra fees all add up over time. Let’s break it down.
Weekly Hire vs Rent-to-Buy Price Range
Most luxury PCO hires in London start at £250 to £350 per week. For example, hiring a Mercedes V-Class typically costs around £300 per week. Rent-to-buy deals are usually lower, between £200 and £280 per week, but they lock you into a longer contract. The main difference is that with hire, you pay for flexibility, while with rent-to-buy, you are working towards ownership.
Running Costs: EV Charging vs Petrol
Electric cars are much cheaper to run than petrol cars. For example, the average home charge costs 15–20p per kWh, which means a full Tesla Model Y charge is about £15. By comparison, filling up a petrol car like a Mercedes V-Class can cost £90 or more. Over a month, drivers who cover 1,000 miles could save £200–£300 by going electric.
Example: Tesla Model Y vs Mercedes V-Class (12 Months)
- Tesla Model Y Rent to Buy: £250 per week × 52 weeks = £13,000. Charging costs roughly £60 per month = £720 yearly.
- Total Yearly cost = £13,720.
- Mercedes V-Class Hire: £300 per week × 52 weeks = £15,600. Fuel costs average £250 per month, which equals £3,000 yearly.
- Total Yearly cost = £18,600.
That’s a saving of almost £4,900 per year with the Tesla, plus you are working towards owning the car if it’s a rent-to-buy option.
Tips for Choosing the Right Luxury or Electric PCO Car
Choosing a PCO car is not just about the price. It’s about finding the right balance between passenger demand, running costs, and your long-term goals as a driver. Here are some tips to help you make the best choice.
Match the Car to Uber Categories
Consider the Uber categories you want to target. A Mercedes V-Class opens doors to Uber XL and Exec jobs, which often mean higher fares. A Tesla Model 3 qualifies for Uber Exec and Comfort. At the same time, a Tesla Model Y can also get Uber Lux in some cases. Always check the latest Uber vehicle requirements before making a decision.
Consider Running Costs and Charging Access
If you go electric, access to charging stations is crucial. Drivers with home charging save the most, but if you rely on public chargers, plan your routes using Zap-Map. Petrol or diesel luxury cars like the BMW 7 Series may be more flexible, but they’ll cost you much more in fuel over time.
Think About Your Earnings Target
If you’re aiming for long-term savings, rent-to-buy makes sense because you’ll own the car after a few years. If you’re unsure how long you’ll stay on the road, short-term hire gives flexibility. It’s about balancing security with opportunity. For example, a driver doing 40–50 hours per week might recover the higher weekly payments of a Tesla quickly through lower running costs and higher category fares.
The right car is not always the cheapest upfront. It’s the one that fits your work style, budget, and long-term goals.
Where to Find Luxury & Electric PCO Cars in London
Finding the right PCO car is just as important as choosing the model. Drivers need a provider that offers both flexibility and trust, especially for rent-to-own deals or luxury car hire.
At Zoom PCO Hire, we focus on making this process simple. We offer PCO car hire and rent to buy options, including no credit check schemes. This helps drivers start earning without unnecessary barriers. Our team has experience in matching Uber drivers with the best luxury and electric vehicles to meet their needs.
Suggestions and Recommendations
From my own time on the road, here’s what I’ve learned:
- If you want flexibility, hire is the better choice. It’s easy to switch cars or stop if your plans change.
- If you’re aiming for long-term earnings growth, rent to buy is the best option. Every payment contributes to ownership, and after a few years, the car is yours in full.
- For Uber Exec acceptance, I’ve had the best returns with luxury cars, such as the Mercedes V-Class or BMW 7 Series. Passengers notice the comfort and often leave better tips.
- To keep costs low, I always recommend the Tesla Model 3 or Model Y. Charging is far cheaper than filling up. The Mercedes EQE is also a great mix of savings and luxury.
- Most important is to always check Uber’s official vehicle eligibility requirements before committing. It saves you from surprises later on.
These are lessons I’ve picked up myself, and I hope they help you choose the right PCO car that really works for you.
Conclusion
Driving in London comes with challenges, but the right PCO car makes it easier to earn well and keep costs under control. Luxury choices like the Mercedes V-Class or BMW 7 Series can secure Uber Exec jobs and impress passengers. At the same time, electric cars such as the Tesla Model Y or Mercedes EQE reduce fuel costs and meet TFL rules. From my own time on the road, I’ve seen that hire is best for flexibility, but rent-to-buy works better for long-term growth.
At Zoom PCO Hire, we keep both options reliable and straightforward so you can focus on driving and building your earnings. We also offer all major car makes across the UK for both PCO car hire and rent-to-buy, giving you the freedom to choose what suits you best.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best luxury PCO car for Uber Exec in London?
Cars like the Mercedes V-Class and BMW 7 Series work really well. They’re comfortable, professional, and passengers often tip better.
Which electric car is best for Uber drivers in the UK?
Tesla Model 3 and Model Y are the most popular choices. They are reliable, cheap to run, and qualify for Uber Exec or Comfort. The Mercedes EQE is also an excellent premium option.
Can I rent-to-buy a Tesla for Uber without a credit check?
Yes, at Zoom PCO Hire, we offer rent-to-buy plans with no credit checks. This makes it much easier for new drivers to get started without worrying about their credit score.
Is it cheaper to hire or rent to buy a PCO car?
Hiring is more flexible but slightly more expensive on a week-to-week basis. Rent-to-buy costs less over time if you plan to drive long-term, and also gives you ownership at the end.
Does Uber accept Mercedes EQE and Tesla Model Y for Exec in the UK?
Yes, both cars are accepted for Uber Exec in most areas, but always double-check Uber’s official vehicle requirements before signing up.
Do I need a charging point at home for an electric PCO car?
Not necessarily, but having a home charger saves time and money. Public chargers work too, but you’ll need to plan your routes carefully.
Can I switch between hire and rent-to-buy later?
Yes, we allow switching, but it depends on your contract. It’s always best to ask before signing.
How old can my PCO car be to drive in London?
TFL rules say most private hire cars must meet specific age limits and emissions standards. Usually, cars under 10 years old are safe choices, especially for Uber Exec.
Are maintenance and insurance included in the hire or rent-to-buy option?
Hire often includes insurance, road tax, and some maintenance. Rent-to-buy usually doesn’t, so you need to factor that into your costs.
