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BUYING SUPPORT · UK

UK Electric Car Grant: eligibility, discounts and buyer checks

The Electric Car Grant is applied by the seller as a discount on an eligible new zero-emission car. Buyers do not submit a separate grant application, but eligibility is model-specific and can change.

Band 1 maximum discount£3,750
Band 2 maximum discount£1,500
Who appliesThe seller or manufacturer
Buyer actionCheck the live eligible-model list before ordering

Eligibility is not the same as being electric

The government requires zero tailpipe CO₂, at least 100 miles of battery range and minimum vehicle and battery warranty standards. It also applies sustainability criteria. A battery-electric car is therefore not automatically grant eligible.

Match the exact model

The official list is the deciding reference. Do not infer eligibility from another battery, trim or body style carrying the same model family name. Ask the seller to show the grant on the written order and verify the car on the current government list.

Treat the grant as part of the deal

Compare the post-grant transaction price with manufacturer discounts, finance deposit contributions and available stock. A larger government discount does not automatically make one finance offer cheaper overall.

Primary reference

GOV.UK — zero-emission cars eligible for a grant. Checked 30 October 2026. Rules and rates can change; confirm the live source before a purchase or tax decision.