Table of Contents
15 May 2025 (updated) What is the cheapest electric car in the UK in 2025?
Looking for an affordable electric car in 2025? With the UK's EV market still growing, budget-friendly options have never been better. In this guide, we’ll explore the cheapest new electric cars available, highlighting their features, the overall costs, and value. We’ll also look into the pros and cons of buying electric models this year.
The best cheap electric cars
We’ve selected a list of some of the most budget-friendly electric cars in 2025 across different categories and classes. This selection is based on the latest figures, reviews, and news. However, there are several factors to consider apart from the purchase price, such as the costs of charging it with a car charger, maintenance, insurance, and depreciation.
1. Citroen e-C3 (cheapest electric car with longest range)
The Citroën e-C3 is an affordable electric supermini blending an SUV-inspired design with practicality and comfort. Priced under £22,000, it offers a 199-mile range, fast 100kW charging, and a well-equipped interior with modern essentials like LED headlights and a 10-inch touchscreen.
Sold by AUTODOC Sold by AUTODOC Sold by AUTODOC Sold by AUTODOC Sold by AUTODOC
KAVO PARTS Charging cable
Mode 3, Charging plug type 2, Charging coupler type 2, 16A, 3,7kW, Phases 1, 250V, IP55
Article number: ECC-10003
£178.99price incl. 20% VAT, free delivery
Article number: 194766
£270.50price incl. 20% VAT, free delivery
Article number: AK-EC-21
£343.00price incl. 20% VAT, free delivery
Article number: 40-388
£65.99price incl. 20% VAT, excl. delivery costs
Article number: NE00907
£19.49price incl. 20% VAT, excl. delivery costs
While cost-cutting is evident in the manufacturer’s use of budget materials, its comfy suspension, spacious design, and usability make it appealing. Despite slower steering and basic handling, it offers decent performance for a very reasonable price.
2. Dacia Spring (cheapest overall)
The Dacia Spring is top of the list when it comes to price, starting at just £14,995 when sold new. However, its build quality and specs reflect its low price tag. The 26.8kWh battery only offers a range of 140 miles, which though limited may be sufficient for most everyday driving needs.
It can also take longer to charge than some of its competitors. It’s a good idea to invest in a wallbox charger to make at-home charging easier. That being said, the running costs are relatively low and the interior has plenty of room and an impressive infotainment system.
3. Renault 5
The new Renault 5 has been well-received for its affordable price, starting at £22,995, and its retro design, appealing to a wide audience. The standard 40kWh battery model offers a practical range of around 190-194 miles, alongside standard features like a 10.1-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay, LED headlights, and parking sensors.
All in all, the car stands out for its fun driving experience, modern technology, and stylish look, making it an attractive and budget-friendly EV option.
4. Peugeot e-208
While this model is somewhat pricier than the others on this list, costing between about £31,150 and £36,200, it offers superior performance while still remaining competitive against premium-segment EVs.
If you look at the range, the price starts to make more sense as the 48kWh pack and 156bhp motor offer a range of up to 248 miles and a 15% increase in power compared to previous versions. The latest version also had a stylish facelift that gives it a sportier exterior with a well-equipped infotainment system inside.
5. BYD Dolphin
The BYD Dolphin is a compact electric hatchback praised for its affordability, spacious interior, and efficiency. It successfully combines practicality with technological features like a 360-degree camera, Android Auto, and Apple CarPlay.
Its higher trims offer great value, though standard models may seem less appealing. The Dolphin delivers a solid real-world range with its larger battery, however, its handling performance is reportedly lacking. Some reports also complain of noise and alert sound issues, reducing its appeal among performance-focused buyers.
Sold by AUTODOC Sold by AUTODOC Sold by AUTODOC Sold by AUTODOC Sold by AUTODOC
KS TOOLS Charger (universal)
Article number: 515.6080
£81.49price incl. 20% VAT, excl. delivery costs
Article number: 5903108515146
£102.49price incl. 20% VAT, excl. delivery costs
Article number: 5903108527224
£30.99price incl. 20% VAT, excl. delivery costs
Article number: U65
£73.49price incl. 20% VAT, excl. delivery costs
Article number: 08914090115A0
£247.00price incl. 20% VAT, free delivery
6. Kia EV3
The Kia EV3 is a compact electric crossover that has both a unique and reliable design. It is, however, priced at £32,995, making it less affordable than the other contenders in this list. On the plus side, it offers two battery options: a 58.3kWh battery with a 270-mile range and an 81.4kWh battery extending up to a whopping 375 miles.
Standard features include a 201bhp motor and front-wheel drive. Considering its efficiency, it may cost you less to run in the long term provided that you maintain it well and charge it regularly (maintaining 30–80% charge) by plugging the car charging cable into an EV charging station or domestic outlet.
7. Vauxhall Corsa Electric
As of October 2024, Vauxhall has revised the pricing for the Corsa Electric to enhance its accessibility. The entry-level Design trim starts at £29,045, while the top-tier Ultimate trim is priced from £33,040. It is a compact EV offering a practical range and efficient performance.
Recent updates include a refreshed design and an optional larger battery, enhancing its appeal. While it provides a comfortable ride and user-friendly infotainment system, rear passenger space and boot capacity are limited compared to rivals.
Top products related to this topic:
