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The benefits of electric cars for limited companies in 2025

Philip Holdsworth

Accounting Partner

As the UK accelerates its transition to a greener future, with the increased focus on achieving Net Zero, limited companies have a unique opportunity to benefit from the shift to fully electric vehicles (EVs).

With the Government’s newly launched £3,750 Electric Car Grant, alongside generous tax incentives and charger installation support, now may be an ideal time for businesses to electrify their fleets.

Key considerations for EV transition

1. Financial incentives: The Electric Car Grant

Launched in July 2025, the UK government’s Electric Car Grant offers up to £3,750 off the purchase or lease of qualifying electric vehicles priced under £37,000 (inclusive of VAT).

Vehicles must meet strict sustainability and performance criteria, including zero tailpipe emissions and a minimum 100-mile battery range. This grant is available to both private and business buyers, including those using salary sacrifice schemes, which can further reduce costs by up to 50%.

Electricity also typically costs a lot less than petrol/diesel, which is subject to fuel duty, making EVs a much more affordable option for day-to-day driving.

2. Tax efficiency for limited companies

Fully electric vehicles offer significant tax advantages for limited companies:

  • Corporation tax relief: New and unused EVs qualify for 100% first-year capital allowances, allowing businesses to offset the full cost against taxable profits.
  • Benefit-in-Kind (BiK) savings: Company car drivers enjoy ultra-low BiK rates, currently just 3%, making EVs far more attractive than petrol or diesel alternatives.
  • VAT reclaim: Businesses can reclaim 50% of the VAT on lease costs for EVs and 100% if the vehicle is used exclusively for business purposes.

3. Grants for EV chargers

To support infrastructure required for a fully electric future, the Government also offers grants for installing EV charging points, benefiting not only businesses but their employees and customers.

At business premises, through the Workplace Charging Scheme (WCS), companies can claim up to £350 per socket for up to 40 sockets, significantly reducing installation costs.

For SMEs needing broader installation work there is further support available through the EV infrastructure grant for staff and fleets covering up to £15,000 per site. You can receive up to five grants across five different sites.

4. Sustainability and brand value

Adopting EVs not only reduces operating costs but also enhances a company’s environmental credentials. Demonstrating a commitment to sustainability can improve brand reputation, attract eco-conscious clients and staff, aid recruitment/retention and support ESG goals.

Should you invest in electric vehicles for your business?

With the combination of the new £3,750 grant, tax savings, and charger support, electric vehicles present a compelling case for limited companies in 2025. Investing in EVs is not just a smart financial move, it’s a strategic step toward a cleaner, more sustainable future with long term commercial and reputational benefits.

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