Electric PCO cars are becoming more popular every year, and for good reason. Many private hire drivers in London and across the UK are making the switch to save money on fuel, avoid rising ULEZ charges, and reduce their carbon footprint.
According to a UK government report, the number of licenced electric vehicles in the UK keeps rising as the country pushes towards its zero-emission targets.
Today, we will discuss the importance of electric cars, the steps to switch, and how you can save money in the long run. If you’re a PCO driver considering an electric vehicle, you’re in the right place.
Why Electric PCO Cars Are Worth Considering
Switching to an electric PCO car hire can feel like a big decision, but it comes with real benefits that can save you money and make driving easier. Let’s examine why many private hire drivers are making the switch.
Better for the Environment
Electric cars produce zero exhaust emissions, which means cleaner air for everyone. If you drive in London, this also means your vehicle is ULEZ compliant, so you avoid paying daily ULEZ charges. That’s an instant saving of £12.50 per day if you drive in the zone.
Lower Running Costs
Fuel prices keep going up, and filling up a petrol or diesel car is expensive. With an electric car, you pay much less to charge your vehicle than you would spend on fuel. Additionally, electric cars have fewer moving parts, resulting in lower servicing and repair costs.
Grants and Incentives
The UK government supports drivers who switch to electric vehicles. You may qualify for a plug-in grant that lowers the cost of your car or a home charging point grant that helps with installation costs. These incentives make going electric more affordable.
Extra Earnings with Uber
Uber is also encouraging drivers to switch to electric vehicles. They are offering power-up packages to drivers who use an electric vehicle. That’s a massive boost to your weekly earnings and makes the switch even more rewarding.
Solving Driver Challenges
We know that many Uber and private hire drivers worry about high running costs, ULEZ fees, and staying competitive. An electric car can help you cut costs, keep more of your earnings, and stay ahead as more platforms encourage cleaner vehicles.
Steps to Switch to PCO Electric Cars
Making the switch to an electric car might feel complicated. Still, it’s actually quite simple when you follow a few steps. Here’s a step-by-step procedure to help you get started.
Step 1: Research PCO-Approved Electric Cars
Start by looking at which electric cars are approved for PCO use. Popular choices include Tesla Model 3, Kia Niro EV, and Nissan e-NV200. Look for a vehicle with a good range, low running costs, and enough space for passengers and luggage.
Step 2: Compare Finance, Lease, Rent to Buy Options
Decide whether you want to lease, finance, or go for the rent-to-buy car option for an electric car. Rent to buy is the most affordable choice for private hire drivers because it includes servicing and keeps your monthly costs predictable. At Zoom PCO Hire, we offer flexible PCO car hire and rent to buy car options with a wide range of electric PCO cars, so you can find one that suits your budget.
Step 3: Check Charging Infrastructure
Before committing, make sure there are enough charging points near your home or regular work area. Apps like ZapMap can show you all the charging stations in your city. Knowing where to charge gives you confidence and saves time while working.
Step 4: Understand Insurance for PCO Electric Cars
Insurance for electric cars can be slightly different from petrol or diesel cars. Check prices with a few providers and see if they offer discounts for electric vehicles. Some insurers reward eco-friendly drivers with lower premiums.
Step 5: Update Your PCO Licence
Once you have your electric car, you’ll need to update your details with TfL (Transport for London) to keep your PCO licence valid. This step is straightforward and ensures you can legally operate your vehicle for private hire work.
Cost Breakdown and How You Save Money
Switching to an electric car is not just good for the planet. It can also save you a lot of money over time. Let’s look at the real numbers, what you can save on maintenance, and why electric cars make financial sense in the long run.
Fuel vs Electricity Cost Per Mile
Running costs are where you start noticing the real difference. Here is an approximate comparison of what it costs to run an electric car versus a petrol car in the UK:
| Type of Vehicle | Cost per Mile |
|---|---|
| Electric car charged at home (≈ 4 miles per kWh) | ≈ 7.5p per mile |
| Electric car charged via public rapid charger | ≈ 17-18p per mile |
| Petrol car doing 40 miles per gallon | ≈ 15-17p per mile |
If you mostly charge at home, your running cost can be less than half compared to petrol. Over 15,000 miles a year, that adds up to hundreds of pounds in savings.
Maintenance Savings
Electric cars have fewer moving parts than petrol or diesel cars. Some of the everyday savings are:
- No oil changes: EVs do not need engine oil, so you save on regular oil changes.
- Fewer filters and fluids: You skip spark plugs and many engine fluids, which means less frequent servicing.
- Reduced brake wear: Regenerative braking slows the car using the motor, so brake pads and discs last much longer.
According to UK government data, many EV drivers save around £700 a year on maintenance, repairs, and fuel combined compared to petrol/diesel cars.
Long-Term Benefits: Warranty, Resale & More
- Battery warranty: Most EVs come with an 8-year or 100,000–150,000-mile warranty, giving you peace of mind.
- Better resale value: Electric cars often hold their value better as demand rises and emission rules get stricter.
- Lower depreciation: Newer EVs are losing value more slowly than older petrol and diesel cars, making them a smarter long-term choice.
Best Electric Cars to Choose for PCO Drivers
Choosing the right electric PCO car is one of the most important decisions you will make as a driver. The good news is that there are plenty of excellent options that strike a balance between range, comfort, and running costs. At Zoom PCO Hire, we offer all the popular PCO-approved electric cars, so you can focus on driving and earning while we handle the rest.
Here are some of the top choices for private hire drivers:
| Model | Range (Miles) | Charging Time (10–80%) | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tesla Model 3 | 436 | ~30 minutes | • Long Range • Premium interior & Tech • Smooth performance |
• Higher monthly cost • Insurance can be expensive |
| Kia Niro | 282 | ~40 minutes | • Reliable and practical • Compact & easy to park • Good range for city driving |
• Less powerful than Tesla • Basic interior styling |
| Nissan e-NV200 | 124 | ~40 minutes | • Affordable option • Simple to drive • Good entry-level EV |
• Lower range • Slower charging |
| Mercedes EQV Long Wheel Base | 231 | ~45 minutes | • Seats up to 7 passengers • Luxury MPV with premium comfort • Perfect for airport & corporate runs |
• Shorter range than sedans • High monthly hire cost |
By choosing any of these electric cars, you can cut running costs, stay ULEZ compliant, and provide passengers with a quiet, comfortable ride. At Zoom PCO Hire, we can help you switch and get behind the wheel of a comfortable electric car that will benefit you as a PCO driver. Schedule a consultation now.
Frequently Asked Questions about Electric PCO cars
Here are some of the most common questions PCO drivers ask when thinking about going electric.
Are electric PCO cars allowed for Uber or Bolt?
Yes, absolutely. Electric cars are fully approved for Uber, Bolt, and other private hire platforms. In fact, Uber has been encouraging drivers to go electric by offering extra earnings for EV drivers in London. If you are looking for a PCO-approved EV, check our electric PCO car hire range. We have all the popular models ready to drive.
How long do EV batteries last?
Most electric cars today come with a battery warranty of 8 years or 100,000 miles (some even go up to 150,000 miles). In real-world use, EV batteries often last much longer with proper care. This means you can drive your PCO car for years without worrying about expensive replacements.
Are there grants or incentives for PCO drivers switching to EVs?
Yes. The UK government currently offers the plug-in vehicle grant, which reduces the cost of certain new EVs by up to £1,500. There are also lower road tax rates, exemptions from ULEZ charges, and potential local council incentives. Plus, Uber offers extra payments for EV drivers.
What are the disadvantages of electric PCO cars?
While EVs save money on fuel and maintenance, there are a few things to consider:
- Charging time: Even with fast chargers, it takes longer than filling up with petrol.
- Upfront cost: EVs are generally more expensive to buy, but Zoom PCO Hire can make it affordable with rent to buy car option.
- Range planning: You need to plan routes around charging points if you drive long shifts.
How much does it cost to replace an electric car battery?
Battery replacement costs vary by model but typically range between £4,000–£8,000 in the UK. The good news is that most drivers never need to replace the battery during their PCO lease or even during ownership if they follow regular charging practises.
Should I buy a petrol car or wait for an electric one?
With petrol and diesel car sales set to be banned from 2035, it makes more sense to switch to electric vehicles now. You’ll save money on ULEZ, get government incentives, and stay ahead of future rules. Plus, EV technology is advancing rapidly, making them more practical for daily private hire work.
Conclusion
Switching to an electric PCO car is not just a trend, it’s a necessity. It is the smartest move for private hire drivers in London and across the UK. EVs help you save money on fuel, avoid expensive ULEZ charges, and reduce maintenance costs. You also get government grants, tax benefits, and extra incentives from Uber, which means more profit in your pocket.
Start today and take the first step towards lower costs and a cleaner future. Consult Zoom PCO Hire today to make the switch to PCO electric cars and enjoy comfort, savings, and a future-ready ride.
