Grey Mini Cooper EV parked in a UK dealership retail park car park ready for sale — Shutterstock

With electric cars continuing to come down in cost - making the switch to an EV is becoming an increasingly accessible option for many drivers. With the biggest barrier to entry is the upfront price, electric cars typically have much lower running costs and are more budget-friendly in the long run. This means that having access to an electric car could save you money over driving a petrol or diesel car.

Furthermore, as battery and EV technology improves - many cheaper EVs now have a competitive range, features, and charging speeds - accommodating a diverse set of needs. In this blog, we’ve compiled the best new electric cars for around £250 per month in 2025, alongside top EVs for around £300 per month, with a breakdown of how much they cost new, their range, features, and how much they would cost to salary sacrifice through a green car scheme, like The Electric Car Scheme!

Key Insights:

Improving Affordability: The decreasing cost of electric cars and improvements in battery and EV technology are making them an increasingly accessible option for many drivers, especially with options available for around £250 per month.
Competitive Features and Range: Many affordable electric cars now offer competitive driving ranges, features, and charging speeds, making them suitable for a diverse range of consumer needs.
Salary Sacrifice and Green Car Schemes: Through green car schemes like The Electric Car Scheme, it’s possible to access EVs through salary sacrifice, offering an additional cost-saving opportunity for individuals looking to switch to an electric vehicle.

What Can You Expect from New EVs at this Price Point?

New EVs are rapidly evolving to become the go-to entry-level segment into driving, with the best models providing 200-250 miles of range, which is sufficient for most daily commutes and city driving - as well as occasional long trips. Although these electric cars are not the fastest to recharge, a 20-30 minute rapid charge time has become the industry standard - giving you the ability to replenish your battery during a typical motorway break. In addition, these cars will still feature adequate performance for daily driving, including motorway driving - giving you the flexibility to do longer journeys without breaking the bank.

As advanced technology continues to trickle down from more expensive models, affordable electric cars are increasingly packed with features for driver assistance and safety such as adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and a GPS which helps you find the nearest charger.

Whether you are looking for an EV to bring down the cost of your daily commute, or as a cheap first car - our list of EVs proves that going electric doesn’t have to be expensive or prohibitive - with great cars available for around £250 a month using a salary sacrifice car scheme.

Best New Electric Cars for Around £250 a Month

Our Most Affordable Pick: Dacia Spring

Brick Red Dacia Spring E3 Extreme EV three quarter front photo with a grey metallic background — media.dacia.com

The Dacia Spring is the most affordable electric car on the market, making it an excellent option for those looking to embrace electric vehicles (EVs) without breaking the bank. As Dacia’s first EV, it stays true to the brand’s philosophy of providing simple, reliable, and budget-friendly cars. The Spring is available in two trims - Expression and Extreme - and offers a practical 137-mile range with a 27kWh battery. The Dacia Spring is lightweight, energy-efficient, and has a boot capacity of 308 litres, expandable to 1,004 litres with the seats down.

In terms of features, the Expression trim includes basics like air conditioning, parking sensors, and remote central locking, while the Extreme trim offers an upgraded infotainment system and alloy wheels. The Spring can be customised in various colours, and you can also lease it through an electric car salary sacrifice scheme like The Electric Car Scheme, making it even more affordable. This car is ideal for those on a budget who need a simple, reliable electric car.

	Dacia Spring
Price to Buy New	£13,967
Price to Buy Used	£12,995
Cost to Salary Sacrifice	Around £125 / month
Range	140 miles
Charging Time (20-80%)	45 minutes at 30kW
Boot Capacity	308L

MG4 EV

The MG4 is an affordable electric car that offers performance and features typically found in more expensive models. With a sleek design and an impressive 329-mile range in the top spec, it provides great value. The MG4 is available in six bold colours, and the cabin boasts a 10.25-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and the MG iSMART app for remote control of key functions. It’s also equipped with safety features like emergency braking and lane-keeping assist.

Charging from 10-80% in under 35 minutes, the MG4 is perfect for long drives, but safety is the key highlight with the MG4, which comes equipped with the MG Pilot driver assistance system. This includes active emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control, ensuring a safer journey. In sum, the MG4 offers incredible value for the price - and it is big enough to be family-friendly.

	MG4 EV
Price to Buy New	£18,283
Price to Buy Used	£13,395
Cost to Salary Sacrifice	Around £258 / month
Range	218 miles
Charging Time (10-80%)	39 minutes at 150kW
Boot Capacity	363L

BYD Dolphin

The BYD Dolphin offers a highly affordable entry into the electric vehicle market, particularly for those seeking a practical and well-equipped EV without breaking the bank. The BYD Dolphin impresses with a range of up to 265 miles, especially when opting for the Comfort model with the larger 60.4kWh battery and 204hp motor.

Despite its affordable price, the BYD Dolphin doesn’t skimp on features, including vegan leather seats, a 12.8-inch rotating touchscreen, and a 360-degree camera, offering great value for money. While it may not have the visual excitement of some other EVs, the Dolphin's practical and tech-forward interior, combined with a smooth driving experience, make it a solid choice for anyone looking for a reliable, budget-friendly electric car.

	BYD Dolphin
Price to Buy New	£26,195
Price to Buy Used	£18,999
Cost to Salary Sacrifice	Around £258 / month
Range	265 miles
Charging Time (30-80%)	29 minutes at 150kW
Boot Capacity	211L

Best New Electric Cars for Around £300 a Month

Renault 5

The Renault 5 is a modern take on its classic predecessor, offering a compact electric vehicle that stands out in its category. With an excellent range and high-quality trims, it competes with small EVs like the Mini Electric and Fiat 500 Electric, punching above its weight to tread on larger models like the Kia e-Niro and Hyundai Ioniq 5 in its offering.

Available in three trims - Evolution, Techno, and Iconic Five - the Renault 5 offers impressive features such as a range of up to 253 miles in the Comfort spec. The car’s stylish design blends modern aesthetics with customisation options and practical interior space, offering comfort for adults in the front and a boot size of 277 liters. The Renault 5 provides excellent value, especially for those opting for a salary sacrifice scheme, offering savings on tax and ongoing costs. It's a solid choice for those seeking a compact, budget-friendly EV without the need for a larger SUV.

	Renault 5
Price to Buy New	£22,995
Price to Buy Used	-
Cost to Salary Sacrifice	Around £276 / month
Range	193 miles
Charging Time (10-80%)	31 minutes at 80kW
Boot Capacity	277L

Mini Cooper Hatchback EV

Yellow Mini Cooper EV parked on gravel in front of a natural spring- three quarter front photo — press.bmwgroup.com

The Mini Electric maintains the brand's famous go-kart handling and distinctive style while embracing zero-emission technology. With its premium interior and engaging driving dynamics, it proves that the transition to electric doesn't mean compromising on fun or spending more than you have to. Perfect for urban environments, it offers a refined driving experience with instant torque and agile handling.

On the motorway, the Mini Electric maintains impressive refinement, responding instantly to inputs and offering ample speed for overtaking. The front seats are comfortable for extended journeys, while the rear seats are best for younger passengers. Dispelling the myth that electric cars lack character, the Mini Electric amplifies the classic Mini driving experience with its immediate electric motor response. It handles corners with minimal lean and accelerates out of tight bends with surprising speed, feeling even quicker than its specifications suggest.

	Mini Cooper Hatchback EV
Price to Buy New	£27,640
Price to Buy Used	£12,450
Cost to Salary Sacrifice	Around £286/ month
Range	245 miles
Charging Time (10-80%)	28 minutes at 75kW
Boot Capacity	210L

Volkswagen ID.3

The Volkswagen ID.3 blends practicality, efficiency, and modern design in a highly appealing electric hatchback, serving as a green alternative to the iconic Golf. Following a design refresh in 2023, the ID.3 presents a sleeker look, with a new front bumper, redesigned bonnet, and stylish rear details. Inside, its cabin offers refined materials and a 10.0-inch infotainment touchscreen.

The ID.3 shines with its impressive driving dynamics, boasting smooth acceleration and efficiency, particularly on fast roads. Whether navigating narrow city streets or winding country lanes, its lightweight steering and compact design ensure ease of handling. With a spacious interior, ample boot space, and practical features like USB-C ports and wireless charging, the Volkswagen ID.3 provides a comfortable and tech-forward driving experience. Available in Pro and Pro S variants, it offers a range of up to 347 miles and fast charging capabilities, making it an excellent choice for those seeking a reliable and stylish electric vehicle for around £300 a month.

	Volkswagen ID.3
Price to Buy New	£30,850
Price to Buy Used	£13,500
Cost to Salary Sacrifice	Around £303 / month
Range	241 miles
Charging Time (10-80%)	25 minutes at 125kW
Boot Capacity	385L

Stretching Beyond £300 a Month: Our Top Picks

Does more money automatically equal more car? To some extent - yes - but not in the way you might think!

Pricier EVs are characterised by premium features, such as improved performance, cabin trims, and most importantly - more space. In this segment, you will find EVs that offer greater levels of comfort, increased practicality for families, and improved performance.

MG5 EV

The MG5 has become a popular and practical electric estate car in the UK, combining space, efficiency, and affordability. Launched in 2020, it quickly gained popularity as one of the few electric estate cars available, offering budget-friendly families an eco-conscious alternative to traditional petrol models. With various battery options, the Long Range variant offers an impressive 367 miles on a single charge, making it ideal for both city and long-distance driving.

The MG5’s spacious boot, with 479 litres of capacity (expandable to 1,367 litres with the rear seats down), enhances its practicality. The top-tier Trophy Long Range model delivers a thrilling driving experience, reaching 0-62 mph in just 7.3 seconds. Packed with features like a 10.25-inch touchscreen, adaptive cruise control, and advanced safety technologies, the MG5 offers exceptional value in the UK EV market.

	MG5 EV
Price to Buy New	£30,995
Price to Buy Used	£14,000
Cost to Salary Sacrifice	Around £305 / month
Range	235 miles
Charging Time (00-80%)	40 minutes at 100kW
Boot Capacity	479L

Renault Megane e-Tech

The Renault Megane E-Tech is an electric family hatchback, designed to appeal to those who want a practical and high-performance EV. Built on the CMF-EV platform, it delivers up to 280 miles of range and accelerates from 0-62 mph in just 7.5 seconds. With a variety of models available, including Equilibre and Techno variants, the Megane offers different specifications to suit diverse needs.

The car is lauded for its comfortable driving experience, featuring responsive steering, smooth suspension, and an intuitive driving mode system. Inside, it boasts ample storage, a luxurious cabin, and connectivity features like Google Assistant, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. Although the rear visibility could be better, the Megane excels in city driving with its compact turning circle and smooth ride. With a spacious boot and plenty of interior comfort, it offers a fantastic blend of style and practicality for modern families.

	Renault Megane e-Tech
Price to Buy New	£29,529
Price to Buy Used	£18,300
Cost to Salary Sacrifice	Around £319 / month
Range	280 miles
Charging Time (0-80%)	74 minutes at 130kW
Boot Capacity	440L

Hyundai Kona

The Hyundai Kona stands out, thanks to its 400-volt electrical architecture, promoting efficient and smooth power delivery, whether you're navigating city streets or cruising on the highway.

On the inside, the Kona Electric is tech-forward, featuring a dual-screen setup for infotainment and the driver’s display. A cool bonus with the Kona Electric is the Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) function, which allows you to power external devices directly from the car, making it even more versatile for outdoor activities or emergencies. Plus, the Kona Electric is equipped with one-pedal driving, making city driving smoother and more efficient. Although the boot capacity is only 210L, its layout optimises usable space - making the car luggage and pet friendly.

The Hyundai Kona comes with a suite of standard features like forward collision avoidance, lane-keeping assist, and blind-spot monitoring. Higher trims add advanced features like adaptive cruise control and Hyundai's Highway Driving Assist, making long drives safer and more relaxing.

	Hyundai Kona
Price to Buy New	£30,995
Price to Buy Used	£22,886
Cost to Salary Sacrifice	Around £312 / month
Range	234 miles
Charging Time (10-100%)	82 minutes at 74kW
Boot Capacity	210L

Nearly-New EVs

Leasing a new EV will always be more expensive than leasing a used EV as a result of depreciation, but there is a best-of-both-worlds approach - with The Electric Car Scheme offering nearly-new EVs to salary sacrifice.

By opting for a car with one previous owner, employees with a salary of £30,000 can access popular EV models like the Nissan LEAF, Volkswagen ID.3, and MG4 for less than £250 a month through our salary sacrifice scheme.

This is possible because the lease cost is deducted from your gross salary by saving on national insurance and income tax, ultimately reducing the amount of tax you have to pay.

EV salary sacrifice schemes, like The Electric Car Scheme, are particularly appealing because of their low benefit-in-kind tax rates for electric cars. This means employees can enjoy driving a new EV at a reduced overall cost compared to traditional car leases or purchases.

This is great because it not only makes electric cars more accessible, because of how affordable they are - ultimately, making the switch to electric the cheapest it has ever been. You can also have one delivered to your driveway in 14 days - eradicating long lead times.

What is the Best Affordable EV to Salary Sacrifice?

Ultimately, finding an affordable EV will be dictated by your budget, as well as other needs such as range, family-friendliness, and features like boot space, driver assistance, and practicality.

The Dacia Spring is the ideal choice for budget-conscious buyers or first-time EV owners looking for a reliable vehicle with basic features. The MG4 EV is great for those who want a longer range, excellent safety features, and a spacious interior at a competitive price - perfect for young families. The BYD Dolphin offers a solid combination of affordability, range, and features like a 12.8-inch touchscreen, making it a great car for those who like their tech, but want to keep a cap on costs.

Increasing your budget will get you the Renault 5 which is a similar size to the Dacia Spring - but a lot more performance and feature-focused. The Volkswagen ID.3 is perfect for those seeking a reliable, efficient, and well-rounded electric car with a great range of up to 347 miles, making it ideal for longer commutes. The Mini Cooper Hatchback EV is ideal for city dwellers who want a fun-to-drive, stylish EV with agile handling and a premium interior.

For those looking for something larger and more family-oriented, the Renault Megane e-Tech, Hyundai Kona, and MG5 EV stand out as top picks in the £300/month+ range, offering more space, features, and performance.

Overall, these cars offer great value, and with salary sacrifice schemes - like The Electric Car Scheme - they make going electric more affordable than ever. Whether you’re looking for a budget-friendly city car, a family-friendly estate, or a compact hatchback, there’s an electric vehicle for every need!

Browse our quote tool, where you can input your salary and desired lease terms to get a personalised quote on affordable electric vehicles!