{"organism":"Page","children":[{"organism":"Container.Raw","children":[{"organism":"Metadata","model":{"title":"What to Know Before Buying Your First Electric Car","text":"The electric vehicle (EV) revolution is no longer on the horizon; it's here. With more models, longer ranges, and a growing charging network, buying an electric car is a more practical and exciting prospect than ever. But making the switch from a petrol or diesel car involves a new way of thinking.","links":[{"name":"What to Know Before Buying Your First Electric Car","value":"https://www.shell.co.uk/electric-vehicle-charging/electric-vehicle-knowledge-hub/before-buying-your-first-electric-car.html"}]},"id":"/content/shell/countries/united-kingdom/en_gb/electric-vehicle-charging/electric-vehicle-knowledge-hub/before-buying-your-first-electric-car/jcr_content/root/metadata"},{"organism":"ContentOwner","model":{},"id":"/content/shell/countries/united-kingdom/en_gb/electric-vehicle-charging/electric-vehicle-knowledge-hub/before-buying-your-first-electric-car/jcr_content/root/contentowner"},{"organism":"Container.Header","children":[{"organism":"Container.Raw","ref":"https://www.shell.co.uk/_jcr_content/root/header/inherited.model.json","model":{},"id":"/content/shell/countries/united-kingdom/en_gb/electric-vehicle-charging/electric-vehicle-knowledge-hub/before-buying-your-first-electric-car/jcr_content/root/header/inherited"},{"organism":"Breadcrumb","model":{"links":[{"name":"Home","value":"https://www.shell.co.uk/"},{"name":"Electric vehicle charging","value":"https://www.shell.co.uk/electric-vehicle-charging.html"},{"name":"Electric Vehicle Knowledge Hub","value":"https://www.shell.co.uk/electric-vehicle-charging/electric-vehicle-knowledge-hub.html"},{"name":"What to Know Before Buying Your First Electric Car","value":"https://www.shell.co.uk/electric-vehicle-charging/electric-vehicle-knowledge-hub/before-buying-your-first-electric-car.html"}]},"id":"/content/shell/countries/united-kingdom/en_gb/electric-vehicle-charging/electric-vehicle-knowledge-hub/before-buying-your-first-electric-car/jcr_content/root/header/breadcrumb"}],"model":{},"id":"/content/shell/countries/united-kingdom/en_gb/electric-vehicle-charging/electric-vehicle-knowledge-hub/before-buying-your-first-electric-car/jcr_content/root/header"},{"organism":"Container.Main","children":[{"organism":"Container.Section","children":[{"organism":"PageHeader","color":"inherited","model":{"title":"What to Know Before Buying Your First Electric Car","text":"\u003Cp\u003EThe electric vehicle (EV) revolution is no longer on the horizon; it's here. With more models, longer ranges, and a growing charging network, buying an electric car is a more practical and exciting prospect than ever. But making the switch from a petrol or diesel car involves a new way of thinking. Is it worth buying an electric vehicle? For many, the answer is a resounding yes, thanks to lower running costs, a smoother drive, and modern technology. This guide will walk you through the key factors to consider when buying an electric car, ensuring your first EV is the perfect fit for you.\u003C/p\u003E\r\n"},"id":"/content/shell/countries/united-kingdom/en_gb/electric-vehicle-charging/electric-vehicle-knowledge-hub/before-buying-your-first-electric-car/jcr_content/root/main/section/page_header"},{"organism":"StandaloneAsset","color":"inherited","model":{"image":{"src":"https://www.shell.co.uk/electric-vehicle-charging/electric-vehicle-knowledge-hub/before-buying-your-first-electric-car/_jcr_content/root/main/section/standalone_asset_cop.shellimg.jpeg/1791471610648/woman-holding-a-dc-ccs-type-two-ev-charging-connector-at-ev-charging-station.jpeg","width":5480,"height":2400}},"id":"/content/shell/countries/united-kingdom/en_gb/electric-vehicle-charging/electric-vehicle-knowledge-hub/before-buying-your-first-electric-car/jcr_content/root/main/section/standalone_asset_cop"},{"organism":"PromoSimple.Text","color":"inherited","model":{"title":"Understanding Range, Charging, and Running Costs","text":"\u003Cp\u003EFor a first-time buyer, these three elements are the most significant change from a conventional car.\u003C/p\u003E\r\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cb\u003ERange:\u003C/b\u003E This is the big one. \"Range anxiety\" is the fear of running out of charge. However, the reality is that \u003Cb\u003Emost modern EVs have a real-world range that far exceeds the average UK daily drive\u003C/b\u003E.\u003C/p\u003E\r\n\u003Cul\u003E\r\n\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cb\u003EThink about your real needs:\u003C/b\u003E Don't pay for a 350-mile range if your most extended regular trip is 50 miles.\u003C/li\u003E\r\n\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cb\u003EA \"full tank\" every day: If you can charge at home, you'll leave every morning with 100% range,\u003C/b\u003E something you don't do with a petrol car.\u003C/li\u003E\r\n\u003C/ul\u003E\r\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cb\u003ECharging:\u003C/b\u003E Your \"refuelling\" strategy changes completely. Instead of last-minute trips to the petrol station, you'll adopt a \"graze\" charging model.\u003C/p\u003E\r\n\u003Cul\u003E\r\n\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cb\u003EHome Charging:\u003C/b\u003E This is the cheapest and most convenient option.\u003C/li\u003E\r\n\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cb\u003EPublic Charging:\u003C/b\u003E If you don't have off-street parking, you'll rely on the public charging network.\u003C/li\u003E\r\n\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cb\u003ERapid Charging:\u003C/b\u003E On motorways, ultra-rapid chargers (150 kW and above) can add roughly 100 miles of range in 20–30 minutes. A 50 kW charger, being slower, usually requires around 30+ minutes to add a similar range.\u003C/li\u003E\r\n\u003C/ul\u003E\r\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cb\u003ERunning Costs:\u003C/b\u003E This is where EVs truly shine.\u003C/p\u003E\r\n\u003Cul\u003E\r\n\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cb\u003E\"Fuel\": Charging with domestic electricity (especially on an off-peak tariff) is significantly cheaper per mile than petrol or diesel.\u003C/b\u003E\u003C/li\u003E\r\n\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cb\u003EMaintenance: EVs have far fewer moving parts.\u003C/b\u003E There are no oil changes, spark plugs, or exhaust systems to replace. This typically means lower maintenance bills.\u003C/li\u003E\r\n\u003C/ul\u003E\r\n"},"id":"/content/shell/countries/united-kingdom/en_gb/electric-vehicle-charging/electric-vehicle-knowledge-hub/before-buying-your-first-electric-car/jcr_content/root/main/section/text"},{"organism":"PromoSimple.Text","color":"inherited","model":{"title":"How to Choose the Right Model for Your Lifestyle","text":"\u003Cp\u003EJust like conventional cars, EVs come in all shapes and sizes. \u003Cb\u003EDon't just focus on the maximum range; focus on the right fit.\u003C/b\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\r\n\u003Cul\u003E\r\n\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cb\u003EThe City Commuter:\u003C/b\u003E If you primarily drive short, urban routes, a smaller EV with a 150-200 mile range is a perfect, efficient choice.\u003C/li\u003E\r\n\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cb\u003EThe Family All-Rounder:\u003C/b\u003E If you need to do the school run, weekend trips, and the occasional long journey, you'll want a family-sized SUV or hatchback. Look for a balance of 250+ miles of range and practical boot space.\u003C/li\u003E\r\n\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cb\u003EThe Long-Distance Professional:\u003C/b\u003E If your job involves a lot of motorway driving, your priorities will be a large battery (300+ miles) and a breakneck DC charging speed (100kW+).\u003C/li\u003E\r\n\u003C/ul\u003E\r\n"},"id":"/content/shell/countries/united-kingdom/en_gb/electric-vehicle-charging/electric-vehicle-knowledge-hub/before-buying-your-first-electric-car/jcr_content/root/main/section/text_425307655"},{"organism":"PromoSimple.Text","color":"inherited","model":{"title":"Charging Options: At Home and On the Road","text":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cb\u003EYour charging plan is more important than the car you buy.\u003C/b\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\r\n\u003Cp\u003EAt Home:\u003C/p\u003E\r\n\u003Cp\u003EThis is the most critical factor for EV ownership. If you have a driveway or garage, get a 7kW wallbox installed. This is a one-off cost that makes EV life effortless. You'll plug in at night and wake up to a full battery. In certain circumstances there are government grants available.\u003C/p\u003E\r\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cb\u003EWhat if I can't charge at home?\u003C/b\u003E Don't worry, it's still possible. You'll need a different strategy:\u003C/p\u003E\r\n\u003Cp\u003EOn the Road:\u003C/p\u003E\r\n\u003Cp\u003EFor long journeys, the public rapid charging network is your best friend. This network is growing every day. You'll stop once or twice on a 200-mile trip for a 20-30 minute break.\u003C/p\u003E\r\n"},"id":"/content/shell/countries/united-kingdom/en_gb/electric-vehicle-charging/electric-vehicle-knowledge-hub/before-buying-your-first-electric-car/jcr_content/root/main/section/text_1132625471"},{"organism":"PromoSimple.Text","color":"inherited","model":{"title":"Understanding the Battery and Plugs","text":"\u003Cp\u003EThis is the \"engine\" and \"fuel nozzle\" of your new car:\u003C/p\u003E\r\n\u003Cul\u003E\r\n\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cb\u003EBattery Size (kWh):\u003C/b\u003E As discussed, this is your \"tank size.\"\u003C/li\u003E\r\n\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cb\u003ECharging Speed (kW):\u003C/b\u003E This is your \"pump speed.\" Look for the car's max DC charging speed. A speed of 100kW+ is ideal for easy long-distance travel.\u003C/li\u003E\r\n\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cb\u003EPlugs:\u003C/b\u003E In the UK, this is simple. \u003Cb\u003EAlmost every new car uses a Type 2 plug for home AC charging and a CCS plug for public DC rapid charging.\u003C/b\u003E\u003C/li\u003E\r\n\u003C/ul\u003E\r\n"},"id":"/content/shell/countries/united-kingdom/en_gb/electric-vehicle-charging/electric-vehicle-knowledge-hub/before-buying-your-first-electric-car/jcr_content/root/main/section/text_1647437537"},{"organism":"PromoSimple.Text","color":"inherited","model":{"title":"Supporting Your Journey: Shell Recharge & Shell GO+ Rewards","text":"\u003Cp\u003EMaking the switch is a new experience, but you're not alone. The \u003Ca href=\"https://www.shell.co.uk/electric-vehicle-charging.html\"\u003E\u003Cb\u003EShell App\u003C/b\u003E\u003C/a\u003E is your key to the public charging network. It gives you access to thousands of charging points across the UK and Europe, not just at Shell stations, but also at many partner networks. You can use the app to find a charger, check its availability, and pay for your session.\u003C/p\u003E\r\n\u003Cp\u003EAnd the benefits don't stop. With \u003Cb\u003EShell Go+ Rewards,\u003C/b\u003E you can earn rewards on your charging sessions at Shell Recharge points, as well as on coffee and snacks you grab during your stop. It's our way of making your EV journey even more rewarding.\u003C/p\u003E\r\n"},"id":"/content/shell/countries/united-kingdom/en_gb/electric-vehicle-charging/electric-vehicle-knowledge-hub/before-buying-your-first-electric-car/jcr_content/root/main/section/text_847017805"},{"organism":"PromoSimple.Text","color":"inherited","model":{"title":"Take a Test Driver (and then take another one)","text":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cb\u003EWhy buy an electric car?\u003C/b\u003E The answer becomes obvious the second you drive one.\u003C/p\u003E\r\n\u003Cul\u003E\r\n\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cb\u003EInstant Torque:\u003C/b\u003E EVs are quick. The instant acceleration from a standstill is exhilarating and makes city driving effortless.\u003C/li\u003E\r\n\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cb\u003ESilent & Smooth: The lack of engine noise and vibration makes for an incredibly refined and relaxing driving experience.\u003C/b\u003E\u003C/li\u003E\r\n\u003Cli\u003E\u003Cb\u003ERegenerative Braking:\u003C/b\u003E Most EVs have \"one-pedal driving.\" When you lift off the accelerator, the car uses the motor to slow down and regenerate energy for the battery.\u003C/li\u003E\r\n\u003C/ul\u003E\r\n\u003Cp\u003EShould you buy an electric car? If you have a charging plan and choose a model that fits your lifestyle, the answer is yes. The lower running costs, the fantastic driving experience, and the modern technology make for a compelling package. Do your research, take a test drive, and get ready for a new way to move.\u003C/p\u003E\r\n"},"id":"/content/shell/countries/united-kingdom/en_gb/electric-vehicle-charging/electric-vehicle-knowledge-hub/before-buying-your-first-electric-car/jcr_content/root/main/section/text_275228922"}],"model":{},"id":"/content/shell/countries/united-kingdom/en_gb/electric-vehicle-charging/electric-vehicle-knowledge-hub/before-buying-your-first-electric-car/jcr_content/root/main/section"}],"model":{},"id":"/content/shell/countries/united-kingdom/en_gb/electric-vehicle-charging/electric-vehicle-knowledge-hub/before-buying-your-first-electric-car/jcr_content/root/main"},{"organism":"Container.Footer","children":[{"organism":"Breadcrumb.Large","model":{"links":[{"name":"Home","value":"https://www.shell.co.uk/"},{"name":"Electric vehicle charging","value":"https://www.shell.co.uk/electric-vehicle-charging.html"},{"name":"Electric Vehicle Knowledge Hub","value":"https://www.shell.co.uk/electric-vehicle-charging/electric-vehicle-knowledge-hub.html"},{"name":"What to Know Before Buying Your First Electric Car","value":"https://www.shell.co.uk/electric-vehicle-charging/electric-vehicle-knowledge-hub/before-buying-your-first-electric-car.html"}]},"id":"/content/shell/countries/united-kingdom/en_gb/electric-vehicle-charging/electric-vehicle-knowledge-hub/before-buying-your-first-electric-car/jcr_content/root/footer/breadcrumb"},{"organism":"Container.Raw","ref":"https://www.shell.co.uk/_jcr_content/root/footer/inherited.model.json","model":{},"id":"/content/shell/countries/united-kingdom/en_gb/electric-vehicle-charging/electric-vehicle-knowledge-hub/before-buying-your-first-electric-car/jcr_content/root/footer/inherited"}],"model":{},"id":"/content/shell/countries/united-kingdom/en_gb/electric-vehicle-charging/electric-vehicle-knowledge-hub/before-buying-your-first-electric-car/jcr_content/root/footer"}],"model":{},"id":"/conf/shell/settings/wcm/templates/base/structure/jcr_content/root"}],"model":{"title":"What to Know Before Buying Your First Electric Car","text":"The electric vehicle (EV) revolution is no longer on the horizon; it's here. With more models, longer ranges, and a growing charging network, buying an electric car is a more practical and exciting prospect than ever. But making the switch from a petrol or diesel car involves a new way of thinking.","links":[{"name":"canonical","value":"https://www.shell.co.uk/electric-vehicle-charging/electric-vehicle-knowledge-hub/before-buying-your-first-electric-car.html"},{"name":"errorUrl","value":"https://www.shell.co.uk/error.html"},{"name":"hierarchy","value":"en_gb/electric-vehicle-charging/electric-vehicle-knowledge-hub/before-buying-your-first-electric-car"},{"name":"homeTitle","value":"Shell UK"},{"name":"homeUrl","value":"https://www.shell.co.uk/"},{"name":"locale","value":"en-GB"},{"name":"title","value":"What to Know Before Buying Your First Electric Car | Shell UK"},{"name":"textDirection","value":"ltr"},{"name":"template","value":"base"},{"name":"contentPath","value":"/content/shell/countries/united-kingdom/en_gb/electric-vehicle-charging/electric-vehicle-knowledge-hub/before-buying-your-first-electric-car"},{"name":"externalDisclaimerText","value":"Shell plc Legal Disclaimer\r\n\r\nYou are now leaving the Shell UK website.\r\n\r\nThe link you have selected will direct you to a website that is not controlled by Shell plc or any member of the Shell Group. Accordingly, neither Shell plc nor any member of the Shell Group endorses, adopts, certifies or otherwise validates the information and material contained on the linked website. This includes its sponsor and any policies, activities or services offered on the site, by any advertiser on the site or linked to the site.\r\n\r\nThank you for visiting the Shell UK website."},{"name":"themeMode"},{"name":"lastModified","value":"2026-10-28T17:12:39.824Z"},{"name":"dateModified","value":"2026-10-28T17:12Z"},{"name":"themeName","value":"shell-recharge"},{"name":"themePath","value":"/etc.clientlibs/amidala/clientlibs/theme-shell-recharge"},{"name":"themeCss","value":"/etc.clientlibs/amidala/clientlibs/theme-shell-recharge.ACSHASH23a752d535925afba7aeea6dc8e3b8f7.css"}]},"id":"/content/shell/countries/united-kingdom/en_gb/electric-vehicle-charging/electric-vehicle-knowledge-hub/before-buying-your-first-electric-car/jcr_content"}