If you want to make sure you pick the best electric company car when the list of options lands on your desk, you’ve come to the right place. Here, we’ll pick over the 10 best options for business users looking to make the switch to battery power and for those wanting to replace their existing zero-emissions work wheels.
While overall electric cars registrations have taken a hit over the past year, sales to businesses continue to boom. For many user-choosers, the technology and performance make EVs a very tempting choice, while fleet managers love the low running costs. However, the biggest reason these types of car are so popular is tax – or rather the lack of it.
Currently, company car drivers who pick an EV benefit from a flat (and very low) benefit-in-kind (BIK) rate of just 2%. As a result, users can easily save 90% or more on their annual tax bill compared with standard petrol and diesel vehicles, even those with a plug-in hybrid element. That’s really not to be sniffed at.
However, not all EVs make great company cars. Many of these machines are still used to travel big miles in a day, which means an excellent range and fast charging are vital. Drivers will also be expected to carry clients, so a spacious and comfy interior is a must. And, equally importantly, they need to project the right image and cut a dash in the corporate car park.
The best electric company cars
BIK rate: 2%
Monthly BIK tax at 20%: £17
Monthly BIK at 40%: £33
With falling sales and an unpredictable CEO in Elon Musk, Tesla has been up against it over the past six months or so. Yet despite the American brand’s struggles, its recently revised Model 3 is a compelling company car choice. Known as the ‘Highland’ update, it brings sleeker looks, an even more minimalist interior, increased performance and an enhanced battery range. More importantly, prices have been slashed, meaning a lower-rate earner will sacrifice just under £17 a month from their salary.
Long Range versions claim an impressive 390 miles between top-ups, while charging on the road couldn’t be simpler thanks to the brand’s Supercharger network. There’s plenty of performance, agile handling and a decent ride, plus the Model 3 is now the best-built Tesla. The biggest niggle is the removal of the traditional steering column stalks, with the new wheel-mounted touchpads for the indicators making roundabouts a challenge.
Read our Tesla Model 3 Long Range review
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