5 Benefits of electric cars: Why now is the best time to make the switch

As the UK works towards its Zero Emission Vehicle (ZEV) Mandate target of 100% zero emission vehicles by 2035 and the wider goal of reaching net zero carbon emissions by 2050, electric vehicles (EVs) are no longer a futuristic dream. They’re here, affordable, and already transforming the way PCO drivers.

For Uber drivers, the shift to electric brings real, everyday advantages like lower running costs, freedom from ULEZ and Clean Air Zone charges, and access to exclusive support like Uber’s EV Assistance.

With gasoline cars (e.g. petrol and diesel) prices climbing, stricter environmental rules on the horizon, and more public EV charging points appearing across the UK, there’s never been a better time for PCO drivers to make the switch.

Here are five key benefits of electric cars that show why now is the smartest move for your driving career.

• Cheaper fuel & charging costs
• Lower maintenance costs
• ​Exclusive support with Uber’s EV Assistance
• Access EV discounts
• Future-proof your driving career

​1. Cheaper fuel & charging costs

Switching to an electric car means huge savings compared to petrol or diesel. Switching to an electric car can mean huge savings on both energy and maintenance. Not only is charging significantly cheaper than fuel, but EVs also come with lower upkeep costs thanks to simpler engineering.

• ​Energy efficiency: Unlike petrol or diesel engines that waste a lot of energy through heat and friction, electric motors use power far more efficiently. More of the energy goes directly into moving the car, which means lower energy use per mile, lower running costs, and fewer emissions from the wider energy supply chain.
• Public charging costs: With over 75,000 public charge points now available across the UK, drivers can easily find affordable charging spots using tools like ZapMap.
• ​Smart charging at home: For those with access to home charging, costs can be reduced by up to 20% by charging during off-peak hours. Not only is this more convenient before starting a shift, but it’s also one of the most efficient ways to achieve a full charge. Providers like Octopus Energy offer specialist night-time EV tariffs and smart meters to make the process even easier.

“Charging at home is a game-changer. It’s quieter, smoother, and I save more on fuel each week.”

Did you know?

Many EVs come with long-range batteries to comfortably support a full day’s work, plus features like regenerative braking (which feeds energy back into the battery) and heated seats (so you use less range for cabin heating). These little touches all add up to big savings while you’re on the road.

Read our guide on how to find low-cost or free EV charging in London.

​2. Lower maintenance costs

All-electric vehicles have the added convenience of fewer moving parts than petrol or diesel vehicles – no oil changes and fewer breakdowns – resulting in less downtime off the road and more earning time.

At Otto Car, our all-inclusive Rent to Buy and PCO Car Hire plans already include servicing and breakdown cover, so you’re protected if something does go wrong. But with an EV, you’ll likely need that support less often – which is a saving in itself. Less time waiting for repairs means more completed trips, more satisfied passengers, and more money in your pocket.

“By choosing an EV, you’re not just cutting costs on maintenance bills – you’re maximising your earning potential by staying on the road longer.”

​​Find out how switching to an electric car can save on costs and help you keep more of your hard-earned cash.

3. Exclusive support with Uber’s EV Assistance

Thousands of drivers in the Otto Car community have already gone electric with support from Uber’s EV Assistance, funded through the Uber Clean Air Plan. It’s a major investment from Uber, designed to make the switch to electric more affordable for hardworking PCO drivers like yourself.

For London drivers, there’s an exclusive opportunity to claim up to £3,000 towards an electric vehicle with Otto Car – but only if you apply by 30 September 2025 (eligibility and T&Cs apply).

Claim your Uber EV Assistance with Otto Car is quick and simple. Whether you’re looking for long-term ownership or flexible rental, Otto Car has a plan to suit you – and we’ll support you every step of the way. Even if you’re not sure which car you want yet, you can lock in your funding now and take more time to decide.

​​Learn more about how to claim your Uber EV Assistance with Otto Car.

Choose from a range of new and used vehicles on our Rent to Buy plan and get on the path to ownership, or enjoy flexibility with our PCO Car Hire plan, which gives you access to a wide selection of cars without long-term commitment.

If you’re just starting out as a new Uber partner, our Accelerate Scheme is the perfect first step, designed to support you as you begin your PCO driving career.

​“The £3,000 EV Assistance made it affordable to get started with an EV, but there are many long-term EV savings too – less on maintenance, fuel, and I qualify for more incentives. Plus, I’m now an active EV driver and the difference in day-to-day driving is massive compared to petrol or diesel.”

Discover how Uber’s EV Assistance helps PCO drivers go electric.

4. Access EV discounts

With Ultra Low Emission Zones (ULEZ) and Clean Air Zones expanding across the UK, petrol and diesel drivers are paying £12.50 a day just to work in these areas. For PCO drivers, that can add up to thousands of pounds a year. EVs are exempt from ULEZ charges, meaning you keep more of your earnings instead of losing them to daily fees.

EV drivers also benefit from a 100% Congestion Charge discount until 24 December 2025, giving even more savings when working in central London.

And while TfL has recently introduced road tax for EVs, it’s still set at the lowest band. Compared to petrol, diesel, or hybrid cars, you’ll continue to save money every year by going electric.

​As EVs become the norm, we can expect some costs to be introduced over time. However, these are likely to remain at the lower end of the brackets, since EVs don’t negatively impact the progress towards cleaner air in our cities. That means drivers will still benefit from cheaper running costs compared to petrol, diesel, or hybrid cars.

5. Future-proof your driving career

​With most car manufacturers working towards going all-electric by 2035, every driver will eventually face the switch to electric – but for PCO drivers, the impact is greater because your car is your livelihood. Making the move now means you stay ahead, avoid future surprises, and give yourself time to save more while getting comfortable with EVs.

The UK is backing this transition with rapid investment in the public charging infrastructure. ZapMap recently reported that there were over 85,000 public charging points across 42,000 locations nationwide, making it easier than ever to stay on the road with easier charging solutions so that you can keep earning.

At Otto Car, we’re here to make the change smoother: from high-spec EVs with the latest tech and safety features, to expert support at every stage. While your EV may need less energy to run, we put all our energy into helping you succeed as a driver.

Ready to go electric with Otto Car?

​Time’s running out to take advantage of Uber’s £3,000 EV Assistance. Whether you’re new to EVs or ready to upgrade your ride, Otto Car – as one of Uber’s trusted partnered providers – is here to support you every mile of the journey.

​Discover how easy it is to own or rent a vehicle with Otto Car. Get free expert advice from our team and explore our wide range of cars available in London with our hassle-free Rent to Buy or PCO Car Hire plans.

Interested in learning more? Enquire about an EV that’s caught your eye or give us a call on 02039951316 – we’d love to help!

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