EV cost savings for private hire drivers explained

If you're a private hire driver, you're probably watching your weekly costs to make sure you’re earning more than you’re spending. With rising fuel prices, maintenance bills, and city charges, this can seriously eat into your earnings. That’s where electric vehicles (EVs) come in - not just as a greener option, but as a smarter financial move.

From lower running costs to reduced charging expenses and maintenance, switching to an electric car can help EV drivers earn more and spend less. Here's how.

• EVs have lower running costs
• EVs need less maintenance = more time to earn
• Smart EV habits to help you go further on every charge
• Cheaper city charges & taxes for EVs

1. EVs have lower running costs

Let’s start with the most obvious win - charging an EV can be much cheaper than filling up with petrol or diesel.

The cost of charging your EV depends on where you’re charging it. It can also make a difference how quickly you’re looking to charge it too - let’s break it down.

Cost of public charging:

If you rely on public charging, then you’re in a great position as there are plenty of options for you to help keep the cost of charging your EV low.

As we see more and more EVs enter the car market on UK roads, we can expect the public charging infrastructure to grow with it to meet demand. It was recently reported that the UK now has over 75,000 public charge points, which is 32% more than this time last year.

Here are the main things that affect how much you’ll spend public charging:

• Different charging networks charge different rates
  Not all public chargers cost the same. Some networks are more expensive than others, especially at rapid charging points. 
  
  As a private hire driver, it helps to compare prices - using apps like Zap-map can help you find the cheapest charger nearby and avoid overpaying. From motorway service stations to shopping car parks, it’ll show you everything you need to know to make a decision quickly.
   
• Electricity prices can change 
  The cost of electricity goes up and down depending on demand, just like you see with conventional cars. So it’s hard to give an average price of charging, but if you’re charging during peak times, like early evening, it can be more expensive. 
  
  Charging overnight or early morning is often cheaper - and better if you want to avoid longer waiting times too.
   
• Charger speed makes a big difference
  Rapid and ultra-rapid chargers will get you back on the road faster, but they usually cost more than slow or fast chargers.
  
  As a private hire driver, time is money - so sometimes paying more for a quicker charge makes sense, especially during busy hours when you want to maximise earnings.
   
• How much you charge
  In fact, a quick top-up of 20–30% is often all you need to get back on the road and keep earning. It saves you time and helps you stay productive without waiting around at a charger. 
  
  It’s easy to overestimate how much charge you need, but here’s a tip - most drivers rarely need a full charge unless you’re going on a long journey. The RAC actually recommends keeping your battery between 20% and 80% - not only is it more efficient, but it’s also better for your battery’s long-term health.

With more public charge points becoming available, you can drive with confidence knowing that you’re likely to always find one nearby. You can find your nearest public charging station with tools from bp pulse - helping you see availability, available amenities onsite and how to get there.

Cost of home charging:

If you’ve got your own driveway or garage, installing a home charger could be a great money-saver.

More and more energy companies are offering cheaper rates and special deals for EV drivers who charge at home. The big benefit? You can plug in overnight when electricity is cheaper - this is called smart charging.

By charging during off-peak hours (usually at night), you could cut your EV charging costs by up to 20%, helping to keep your electricity bill low and manageable. Companies like Octopus Energy even have special night-time rates just for EV drivers, making home charging even more affordable.

We know not everyone can get a charger at home - especially in busy cities like London - but if it’s possible for you, it could be a great way to save money in the long run.

How Otto Car can help

We’ll guide you through choosing the right EV for your driving habits and budget. Whether you’re looking to own your car with our Rent to Buy plan or you’re looking for a flexible PCO Car Hire plan, there’s something for everyone.

And if you need help deciding, just pop into one of our Otto Car hubs - our expert team has you covered.

2. EVs need less maintenance = more time to earn

As a private hire driver, time off the road means money lost. EVs are built with fewer mechanical parts than petrol or diesel cars - no need for oil changes, no exhaust problems, and fewer things that can break down. That means less time off the road getting repairs and more time picking up passengers earning money.

Some parts of an EV still need regular care, like tyres and brakes - just like in petrol or diesel cars. These costs are usually about the same. EVs also have some unique parts, like the battery, that need looking after too.

How Otto Car can help

When you get a car through one of our all-inclusive Rent to Buy or PCO Car Hire plans, you're getting more than just a car - you're getting peace of mind. All servicing and breakdown cover is included in the price, so if something does go wrong, Otto Car is here to help.

We’ve got your back, so you can stay focused on driving and earning.

3. Smart EV habits to help you go further on every charge

Once you’ve got your EV, how you use it can make a big difference to your weekly costs - especially in the colder months.

Modern EVs come with built-in features that help private hire drivers reduce running costs, save time, and get more miles out of every charge. Here are the key ones:

• Preconditioning

  • Heats or cools your car while it’s still plugged in
  • Saves battery by avoiding heating from cold
  • Clears windows before you start, helping you get on the road faster

• Heat pump system

  • Uses far less energy than a traditional heater
  • Helps keep more of your range during winter shifts
  • Keeps the cabin warm efficiently on long working days

• Eco driving modes

  • Reduce energy-heavy systems like air con
  • Smooth out acceleration to extend range
  • Help maximise miles per kWh throughout the day

• Regernative braking

  • Recovers energy every time you slow down
  • Perfect for stop-start city driving
  • Adds useful range across a full shift

How Otto Car can help

We have a wide range of private hire-ready electric cars available today - and there’s no easier way to rent or own than with Otto Car. 

Explore our selection of EVs, all packed with smart features that help you save money, keep more of your hard-earned earnings, and maximise your time on the road. Plus, enjoy complete peace of mind with our all-in-one cover, including insurance, breakdown cover, servicing, and more.

4. Cheaper city charges & taxes for EVs

Driving an EV means saving money on more than just charging - there are other charges you can avoid or reduce too.

Across the UK, more cities are introducing clean air zones, congestion schemes, and emissions-based charges. While some incentives that were once free are now becoming chargeable, like road tax, EVs consistently remain the cheapest option to drive in these areas. Here's why:

• EVs avoid the most expensive city charges
  Most low-emission and clean air zones are designed to discourage older petrol and diesel vehicles. Fully electric cars continue to be exempt from the highest penalties, helping you avoid daily fees that can add up quickly.
   
• Even as policies evolve, EVs stay the most cost-effective choice
  Some schemes that were previously free for EVs are changing, but the cost is still significantly lower than driving a petrol or diesel equivalent - especially for private hire drivers who work in city centres every day.

For private hire drivers who spend most of their time in busy or restricted areas, these savings make a real difference to weekly earnings.

Ready to drive into the future? Join Otto Car today

Explore our wide range of electric cars on Rent to Buy or PCO Car Hire plans, designed to fit your needs.

Already know the car you want? Visit one of our London hubs or call us on  0203 995 1316 - our friendly Otto Team is always here to help!