In this article, Lash Saranna, CEO of EV salary sacrifice and business subscription firm EZOO, explores key trends and opportunities facing the electric vehicle sector.
With just 45 months to go until the ban on all new petrol and diesel car and van sales, it’s safe to suggest that the plug-in race is well underway. Indeed, sales are at their highest ever levels, with data from the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) suggesting that upwards of 40,000 BEVs and PHEVs are now registered on average every month (more than 35% of all new car sales). Elsewhere, charging infrastructure continues to accelerate, with insight from ZapMap revealing that the UK is now home to 87,196 publicly accessible devices across 44,326 locations.
However, challenges remain. Alongside misinformation in the marketplace regarding range, charging, cost and practicality, recent Vehicle Excise Duty (VED) increases and the Autumn Budget confirmation of a 3p per mile EV tax has put uncertainty into the mind of drivers looking to make the switch.
Communication will prove pivotal in tackling these challenges, especially when it comes to demonstrating the affordability of buying and running an EV. After all, the fact of the matter is simple. EVs remain, by far, the most sustainable and cost-effective vehicle choice. What’s more, they’re hugely practical too.
So, what does the immediate future look like for the transition to electrification? Well, at EZOO, we’re expecting the following themes to play a driving role:
- The EV transition will continue at pace
With strong sales growth, falling purchase costs and supportive policies, the EV transition is snowballing. In 2026, predictions suggest that upwards of 500,000 new plug-in cars will be registered in the UK* – a record-breaking figure.
While rising road tax and the confirmation of pay-per-mile charges have frustrated drivers, a number of subsidies – including the Electric Car Grant – make EV ownership a hugely cost-effective and accessible choice.
What’s more, a wealth of new models are set to launch this year – each bringing new technology, new capability, longer ranges and faster charging times to market. Three quarters of industry experts expect increased penetration from new entrant OEMs 2026, with the ‘sub £37’ category expected to grow the fastest.** It’s an exciting time for the industry and the perfect opportunity to make the switch.
- Used EV’s will become increasingly popular
More drivers than ever before are looking towards the used EV market for unbeatable value and immediate availability. The growing number of ex-fleet electric and hybrid models is widening purchase choice, with a wealth of pre-loved options available.
While misinformation surrounding EV battery health has previously seen buyers shy away from the used market, these rumours have been firmly debunked, with drivers now vying to get their hands on a bargain. Without a gearbox, clutch or exhaust system, EVs experience far fewer technical issues than a used ICE car. What’s more, the average battery life of an EV can surpass 10-20 years (or exceeding 200,000 miles).
Purchasing a used EV outright is a great choice, but it’s important to remember that you can still pick a used EV through salary sacrifice – leading to even bigger savings.
- Salary sacrifice will rise further up the ranks
Salary sacrifice is a smart, tax-efficient way to get behind the wheel of your dream EV for less. Instead of paying for the car out of take-home pay, employees agree to give up a small portion of their gross salary in exchange for an all-inclusive vehicle package. Because the fee is taken pre-tax, you can make big savings – up to 60% depending on salary, marginal tax rate and the Benefit in Kind (BIK) rate of the car.
At EZOO, our scheme bundles everything – including car, insurance, maintenance, breakdown cover and road tax – into a single monthly cost. This makes EV ownership far more attainable, helping to reduce emissions while also enabling employees to benefit from the lower running costs of an EV.
With increasing pressure to switch from ICE to electric, and salary sacrifice by far the most cost-effective route, we’re seeing a huge increase in demand for our services. Insight suggests that this will continue to build, with 90% of leasing companies forecasting growth in salary sacrifice schemes this year.***
- Business subscriptions will become a popular option
Outright purchase or salary sacrifice can be a big decision for many drivers. Business subscriptions provide quick access to the latest EVs on a flexible term – much like a streaming service. It’s perfect for short-term leases, or even just to dip your toe in the water to ‘try before you buy’.
At EZOO, we pride ourselves on our business subscription offer. With flexible subscriptions from 3-months, an all-inclusive package (including insurance, road tax, servicing and breakdown cover) and delivery within seven days, it’s an excellent option without the long-term commitment.
We’re seeing demand for business subscriptions soar – and expect this trend to continue. It’s a low-risk way to embrace electric, with complete flexibility and unmatched practicality for drivers nationwide.
It’s safe to suggest that the UK is continuing to take major steps forward in the transition to electrification. Plug-in cars remain by far the most cost-effective and sustainable transport solution, and demand is increasing accordingly.
