EV's and Hybrid's Frequently Asked Questions

Thinking to make the Switch?

The demand for Electric Vehicles (EV) and Hybrids has increased significantly in the UK - though, for many of us, we question whether an EV or Hybrid vehicle is right for us. At Toomey Motor Group, we realise more people are gradually driving hybrid and fully electric vehicles as opposed to the conventional combustion engine. As a result, we have become the EV/Hybrid specialists in the Essex area with a range of the popular 100% electric and PHEV/HEV models available including the Nissan Leaf and Renault Zoe. With the help from multiple EV and Hybrid experts across Toomey Motor Group, we have developed an FAQ Section to assist you when making this decision.  If you need any further information, please do not hesitate to contact us directly. 

What type of Electric and Hybrid vehicles are there?

EV (Electric Vehicle): An EV is known as an electric vehicle, it has a rechargeable battery, almost exclusively lithium-ion, and an electric motor. 

HEV (Hybrid): As with PHEV, a hybrid vehicle also uses a combustion engine such as petrol or diesel in addition to a rechargeable battery and electric motor. These hybrid vehicles cannot be plugged in as they have relatively small batteries and short electric-only ranges of perhaps 2 or 3km. 

PHEV (Plug-in Hybrid): A plug-in hybrid vehicle uses a combustion engine such as petrol or diesel, plus a rechargeable battery and electric motor. 

What type of EV's and Hybrid's are available at Toomey Motor Group?

Due to the government announcement of its ban on the sale of new diesel and petrol only cars by 2040, electric vehicles (EV) are quite a popular topic right now! For those who want to do their bit to improve air quality, switching to an electric car is a perfectly feasible option due to the variety available. 

At present, we have the following EV, PHEV, Hybrid vehicles available: 

Citroen: C5 Aircross SUV, e-Dispatch

DS: DS 3 CROSSBACK E-Tense, DS 7 CROSSBACK E-Tense

MG: ZS EV, MG5, MG HS Plug-in

Nissan: Leaf, e-NV200

Peugeot: e-208, e-2008, 3008 SUV, 508, 508 SW

Renault: Zoe, Clio, Captur, Kangoo, Master

Vauxhall: Corsa-e, Grandland X SUV, Vivaro-e

Can I get an Electric Vehicle on the Motability Scheme?

Yes - you are able to get an Electric Vehicle on the Motability Scheme. For more information, please contact the franchise you are interested in, and they will be able to give you more information. 

How much does it cost to run an EV?

In comparison to combustion engines, the fuel costs for EV and Hybrid vehicles are considerably less. The cost to charge an EV or Hybrid vehicle depends on various factors such as the size of the battery, where you are charging it and what time you are charging the vehicle.

An example of this would be to charge a 40kWh battery from 0 to 100% at home using a typical domestic household tariff of 15p/kWh - this would cost approximately £5.00 - £7.00. On the other hand, fully charging the same battery at a motorway service station may cost twice that amount. 

There are many supermarkets, cinemas and some car parks offering free charging. 

How long does it take to charge an electric vehicle?

The length of time it takes to charge an electric vehicle can range from 30 minutes to more than 10 hours. This depends on various factors such as the size of the battery and the speed of the charging point. A typical electric car with a 60 kWh battery takes just below 8 hours to charge from 0 to 100% with a 7kWh charging point. 

Do electric vehicles have gears?

No - Electric vehicles do not have a traditional gearbox similar to the conventional petrol or diesel gearbox. EV vehicles only have a single gear acceleration. 

What are the maintenance costs for EV's?

An EV's servicing and maintenance costs are significantly less than petrol or diesel vehicles. This is primarily due to the electric motors containing fewer parts in comparison to a conventional combustion engine. EV's also do not have starter motors, clutches, gearbox, exhausts and a lot more...

In addition, the brake pads and discs in an EV have considerably less wear and tear as the braking is achieved through the regenerative braking features.

What is the battery life of an Electric Vehicle?

The battery life of an electric vehicle is expected to last around 10 years. However, this varies across vehicles and is dependent on various items such as cooling systems, size of battery etc. The battery capacity will vary depending on age and usage. 

What are Kilowatt-hours (kWh)?

Kilowatt-hours (kWh) are used to measure how much energy can be stored in the battery. A greater battery capacity will imply an increased range and/or performance.

Can you overcharge an Electric Vehicle?

Most manufacturers have already taken safety precautions to prevent this from happening, therefore you cannot overcharge or overheat your electric vehicle. However, it is advisable to talk to the EV / Hybrid Specialist as this can vary amongst different manufacturers. 

Do Electric Vehicles require an MOT?

Yes - as with all vehicles, the EV's have to pass an annual MOT after they are 3 years old. 

Am I entitled to a government grant if I purchase an EV?

Yes - According to the Office of Low Emission Vehicles (OLEV), most EV's qualify for a Government Grant. 

For more information, please visit: https://www.gov.uk/plug-in-car-van-grants

We will be able to apply and receive the grant on behalf of you therefore you won't need to do anything. 

Am I entitled to a government grant if I am purchasing a vehicle on finance?

Yes - the grant will be deducted from the total price of the vehicle, therefore your monthly payments will be reduced. Most of our offers have already accounted for the grant.