EV charging and energy management for UK SMEs
Whether your business has one vehicle or an entire fleet, investing in fully electric vehicles (EVs) is not just a smart financial move - it’s a strategic step toward a cleaner, more sustainable future. It can also offer long-term commercial and reputational benefits. With the UK government phasing out the sale of new petrol and diesel cars from 2030, now is the time to consider switching.
As energy experts, the team at Bionic is here to help you make the best decisions for your business and maximise your business energy savings. In this guide, we explain everything small and medium-sized business owners need to know about electric vehicles. From why electric vehicles are good for business to the practicalities of installing EV infrastructure and charging.
Five-point summary of our EV charging and energy management guide
- The clock is ticking. From 2030, new petrol and diesel cars will no longer be sold in the UK, and all new vans and cars must be fully zero-emission by 2035.
- EVs save money. Lower fuel, tax, and maintenance costs can make EVs far cheaper to run over time.
- Sustainability sells. Cutting emissions demonstrates environmental responsibility and appeals to eco-conscious customers and partners.
- Charging = opportunity. On-site charge points can create new revenue streams and improve employee satisfaction.
- Support is available. Government grants and tax incentives make the switch to electric more affordable for SMEs.
When does my business need to switch to electric vehicles
The UK government has set out a clear plan to phase out the sale of all new petrol and diesel vehicles by 2030, with all new cars and vans being fully zero emission from 2035 under the Zero Emission Vehicle (ZEV) Mandate. This will shape how companies buy and operate vehicles over the next decade.
It’s important to note that this does not mean petrol and diesel models will disappear overnight. Businesses can continue to own, drive, lease and resell existing vehicles after 2030. Used petrol and diesel vehicles will still be available on the second-hand market and fleets can run older models until they naturally reach the end of their life.
As we move closer to 2030, there will be more electric options, better charging networks and financial advantages for going green. Planning for the switch now helps SMEs stay ahead.
Why electric vehicles are good for business
While there is currently no legal deadline forcing UK businesses to replace every petrol or diesel vehicle, there are many incentives to choosing an electric car or van for your business. Here are some of the key benefits:
Cheaper to run than petrol and diesel cars
Electric vehicles are generally cheaper to run than petrol or diesel models. Charging with electricity costs less per mile than buying fuel, and EVs have fewer moving parts, which helps reduce maintenance costs over time. These savings can have a real impact on business budgets, especially for companies with vehicles on the road every day.
Strengthen your sustainability profile
Customers and partners are paying more attention to how businesses are becoming more sustainable. By switching to electric vehicles, companies can cut their carbon emissions and show they are taking action on climate change. Because the national grid is becoming cleaner year after year, the environmental benefits of EVs will continue to grow.
Unlock a new revenue stream
Installing electric vehicle charging points for business fleets can create an extra income stream. Businesses that make chargers available to the public or customers can charge a usage fee. In some cases, having chargers onsite also encourages people to stay longer, which may bring extra business activity depending on the type of company you operate.
Improve employee satisfaction
Providing EV chargers for business vehicles at work can make life easier for staff who already own an EV or are thinking about buying one. Knowing they can charge their personal or company vehicle while working gives drivers confidence and removes the stress of searching for public chargers. Offering EV support can also show employees that the business invests in modern, sustainable solutions, which can enhance retention.
Grants and tax incentives
Several schemes across the UK can make the switch to electric easier and more affordable. Businesses can apply for grants to help with buying low-emission vehicles and installing workplace charge points, including:
- Plug-in vehicle grant – a discount dependent on the type of low-emission vehicle, included in the purchase price.
- Workplace charging scheme – up to £350 per charging socket, up to 40 sockets.
- EV chargepoint grant – provides funding of up to 75% towards the cost of installing electric vehicle smart chargepoints at domestic properties across the UK. The driver must own a flat or live in rented accommodation.
There are also several tax benefits for ultra-low emission vehicles, including:
- 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.
Is an electric vehicle right for your small business?
When it comes to deciding whether an electric vehicle is right for your business, there are several factors to consider.
- Cost - while EVs are usually more expensive to buy upfront than petrol and diesel models, they are often cheaper to run day to day. Electricity typically costs less per mile than fuel and EVs need less maintenance, which can make a noticeable difference over the lifetime of the vehicle.
- Usage and range - modern electric vans and cars have much longer ranges than early models and many are suitable for local deliveries, site visits or commuting. If your team regularly travels long distances, it’s worth checking the vehicle range and planning charging stops.
- Charging stations - some businesses may choose to install chargers on their premises or at employees’ homes, although this may require landlord approval. Others may rely on public charging networks, which continue to grow across the UK.
- Wider benefits - EVs help cut emissions, support sustainability goals and can make your company more attractive to environmentally conscious customers and employees. For many SMEs, going electric offers both practical and strategic advantages.
Every business is different and has different needs. But no matter the shape or size of your business, making the shift to EVs can have a significant impact on your business’s operational costs and environmental impact.
Charging your business’s electric vehicles
When switching to EVs, you will need to plan how you will charge your vehicles. Business owners need to think about where vehicles will plug in, how fast they charge and the cost of installation and electricity. Some companies offer business EV chargers at their depots, others rely on public chargers and many combine workplace, home and on-route charging. Understanding your options helps you control costs and makes sure vehicles are ready when you need them.
Charging at a depot
Charging at a depot is a popular option for businesses that run vehicles from one location. It gives full control over when and how vehicles charge, which can help keep operating costs down. With the right setup, fleets can plug in overnight and start the day with a full battery. Installation costs vary depending on how many chargers you need.
Costs for charging at a driver's home
Some businesses might choose to allow staff to take vehicles home and charge them there. Home charging is often cheaper per mile than public charging because drivers use their own tariff and can take advantage of cheaper overnight rates. There will be installation costs for fitting a home charger, but smart charging can help manage cost and energy use. Businesses will also need a system for tracking, charging and reimbursing drivers.
Looking for help to maximise your business energy savings?
At Bionic, we work with a panel of trusted suppliers and providers to get you a competitive deal, no matter the shape or size of your business. Just give us your postcode and our tech-enabled experts will use smart data to find an energy deal that suits the unique needs of your business.
If you need help maximising your business energy savings, get in touch with our helpful team to compare business energy tariffs and find the right one for your business.
EV charging and energy management for small businesses FAQs
Still got some questions about EV charging and energy management at your small businesses? Check out the answers to some of the most frequently asked questions, below?
When do UK businesses need to switch to electric vehicles?
The sale of new petrol and diesel vehicles ends in 2030; planning your EV transition now helps futureproof your business.
Can my business still use existing petrol or diesel vehicles after 2030?
Yes, you can still own, drive, and resell existing vehicles—only new sales are affected.
What financial support is available for UK SMEs going electric?
Grants like the Workplace Charging Scheme and Plug-in Vehicle Grant help cover purchase and installation costs.
Are electric vehicles cheaper to run than petrol or diesel?
Yes. Electricity costs less per mile, and EVs have fewer moving parts, reducing maintenance expenses.
How can EV charging improve employee satisfaction?
Providing workplace chargers makes commuting easier for EV drivers and shows a commitment to sustainability.
Can SMEs make money from EV charging stations?
Yes. Businesses can charge the public or customers a usage fee, creating a new revenue stream.
What’s the best EV charging option for business fleets?
Depot charging offers full control and overnight charging, while home or public charging adds flexibility.
How can Bionic help my business save on energy?
Bionic compares energy deals and EV solutions from trusted UK suppliers to find the best rates for your business.
