There are lots of different options available to private hire drivers. So is it worth considering an electric vehicle?
With new makes and models of electric vehicles available each year, an increasing number of private hire taxi drivers are switching to an electric car for their work. By using an electric vehicle for your private hire work, you can access a number of benefits, including exemption from road tax, the Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ), zero emission zones and congestion charges.
In this post, we’ll look at some of the things you may wish to consider when deciding whether an electric vehicle is right for you as a private hire driver. We’ll also take a look at how you can get started with your quote for Private Hire insurance with Zego.
Where can you charge an electric vehicle?
If you don’t have off street parking, it doesn’t necessarily mean that an electric vehicle isn’t right for you. However, having a driveway certainly makes charging your vehicle easier, as you can apply for a home charging point to be installed.
Even if you can’t charge your vehicle at home, there are a growing number of free and paid electric vehicle charging points. A rapid charge point can charge your vehicle in as little as 20-30 minutes and TFL plans to install another 300 of these across the capital before the end of 2020.
How long can an electric vehicle travel on one charge?
We know how important it is for you to stay on the move as a private hire driver. The last thing you want is for your car to run out of charge during your shift and force you into taking a break.
However, the range of electric vehicles has increased significantly over the last few years. The latest models of electric vehicles have a 60-80kWh battery and they are capable of travelling between 200-250 miles on a single charge.
How expensive is it to run an electric vehicle?
If you regularly work in Ultra Low Emission Zones (ULEZs) or regularly enter areas that incur congestion charges, an electric vehicle can help to reduce the costs associated with your work. With congestion charges of £15 and a daily ULEZ charge of £12.50, your savings can add up very quickly.
A modern electric car costs roughly £4 to charge up to 100 miles. To travel the same distance in a petrol car, it costs approximately £14 (Source: BBC News). If you’re covering large distances, the difference in cost builds up to significant amounts over time. As for how your insurance costs will changing driving an electric car we have it covered here.
What does Zego offer private hire drivers?
At Zego, we offer competitive quotes to drivers using all types of vehicles, including electric cars, for private hire work. You can choose the policy duration and level of cover that suits you, as well as customising your policy by choosing from our great range of optional extras.
For more information, you can visit our Private Hire insurance page, or get in touch with our friendly team. We’re available 7 days a week and we’re always happy to help.
Get a quick quote now — it only takes a minute.