If you’ve been eyeing an electric vehicle (EV), now might be the perfect time to make the switch. The UK government has just unveiled the first cars eligible for its new EV grant scheme offering up to £3,750 off select models.
Which Cars Qualify?
Leading the charge are Ford’s Puma Gen-E and the e-Tourneo Courier, both confirmed by the Department for Transport (DfT) as eligible for the full discount. These models are part of a broader push to help drivers transition away from petrol and diesel vehicles.
The grant applies to new EVs priced up to £37,000, with the most eco-friendly models receiving the biggest savings. In addition to the headline £3,750 discount, 26 other models have been approved for a £1,500 grant.
How It Works
Carmakers can apply to have their vehicles included in the scheme, and once approved, the discount is automatically applied at the point of sale—no paperwork or waiting around.
More models are expected to be added soon, and the DfT says the initiative will help EV prices “closely match their petrol and diesel counterparts.”
Countdown to 2030
This move comes as part of the UK’s commitment to ban the sale of new petrol and diesel cars by 2030. But despite the push, many drivers still feel hesitant. High upfront costs and limited charging infrastructure are major concerns.
Hugh Bladon, founding member of the Alliance of British Drivers, voiced his doubts, saying EVs “don’t cut the mustard” for many. He believes hybrid cars offer a more cost-effective solution and called for similar incentives to support them.
Price Check: Puma Gen-E vs Petrol Version
Interestingly, Ford’s Puma Gen-E comes in at £26,245, slightly cheaper than its petrol counterpart at £26,580. With the grant applied, the EV becomes an even more attractive option.
Going Green Pays Off
The £650 million grant scheme will run for three years, aiming to make EVs more accessible to everyday drivers. But it’s not just about the cars themselves because manufacturers using sustainable production methods, like 100% renewable electricity, stand a better chance of qualifying for the full discount.
At the moment, there are around 1.3 million electric cars on UK roads, but only about 82,000 public charging points. So while the grants are a welcome step, expanding the charging network remains a crucial piece of the puzzle.
Current List Of EV’s Eligible For £1.5K Discount
Citroën ë-C3 and Citroën ë-C3 Aircross
Citroën ë-C4 and Citroën ë-C4 X
Citroën ë-C5 Aircross
Citroën ë-Berlingo
Cupra Born
DS DS3
DS N°4
Nissan Ariya
Nissan Micra
Peugeot E-208
Peugeot E-2008
Peugeot E-308
Peugeot E-408
Peugeot E-Rifter
Renault 4
Renault 5
Renault Alpine A290
Renault Megane
Renault Scenic
Vauxhall Astra Electric
Vauxhall Combo Life Electric
Vauxhall Corsa Electric
Vauxhall Frontera Electric
Vauxhall Grandland Electric
Vauxhall Mokka Electric
Volkswagen ID.3
