Frequently Asked Questions
57 questions
General
How easy is it to get started?
With FleetEV, schemes can be live in weeks. We support you from initial setup through to employee communications and ongoing support.
Can it help with recruitment and retention?
Yes. It's a highly valued benefit that enhances your employee offering and helps you stand out in competitive recruitment markets.
How does it support our ESG and sustainability targets?
Every employee on the scheme replaces a petrol or diesel vehicle with a zero-emission EV. It's one of the fastest ways to reduce Scope 3 emissions and demonstrate meaningful, measurable progress on sustainability commitments.
What happens if an employee leaves or goes on long-term leave?
FleetEV includes built-in risk protection to safeguard your business against early termination or long-term absence, so you're never left exposed.
Does it increase admin or risk for our team?
Not with FleetEV. We design, launch and manage the scheme, handling compliance, payroll integration and day to day administration.
What are the financial benefits for my business?
Offering salary sacrifice can reduce your Class 1 National Insurance contributions, with no upfront vehicle costs or balance sheet impact. Many businesses find the scheme effectively pays for itself through NI savings alone.
What happens if i leave my job?
The scheme includes early leaver protection to help manage costs if you leave employment, change roles or experience life changes. Your employer and FleetEV can explain the specific protections in place.
Who can access the scheme?
You can usually join if you are a PAYE employee, your salary stays above National Minimum Wage after the deduction, and your employer offers the scheme.
What's included in the monthly cost?
Your monthly payment covers your vehicle, servicing and maintenance, breakdown cover, accident management, unlimited tyre replacement and early termination protection. Insurance is available as an optional add-on.
Is it only for brand new electric cars?
No. Our scheme also includes approved used electric vehicles, which come with lower monthly costs, quality low-mileage vehicles, and the same tax advantages.
How much could I save?
Savings can often be between 30 and 60% compared to leasing privately, depending on your salary and the vehicle you choose.
What is EV salary sacrifice?
It's a simple way to drive a brand new or nearly new electric vehicle through your employer. Instead of paying from your take-home pay, the cost comes from your gross salary before tax - meaning lower income tax, lower National Insurance, and one simple monthly cost.
Can I use an extension lead to charge my EV?
Using an extension lead for EV charging is not recommended, as it may overheat and pose a fire risk. Always use an approved EV charging cable and socket.
What is regenerative braking?
Regenerative braking recaptures energy when you slow down, sending it back to the battery. This increases efficiency and extends your EV’s range.
Are EV batteries recyclable?
Yes, EV batteries are highly recyclable. Once a battery reaches the end of its life, it can be repurposed for energy storage or its materials recycled to make new batteries.
Can I take an EV abroad?
Yes, but check charging compatibility and availability in the countries you’ll visit. You may need a charging cable adapter for different plug types. Many EV providers offer Europe-wide charging cards.
What happens if I run out of charge?
If you run out of charge, you’ll need roadside assistance to transport your vehicle to a nearby charging station. Planning your journeys and keeping an eye on the charge level prevents this situation.
Can I charge an EV in the rain?
Yes, EV chargers are designed to be safe in all weather conditions. Charging cables and ports are waterproof, and safety features ensure no electricity flows unless securely connected.
How much does it cost to charge an EV?
Charging costs depend on electricity rates and the size of the battery. At home, charging typically costs 10–15p per mile, while rapid public chargers may cost 30–40p per mile.
Are there enough public chargers in the UK?
The UK has over 45,000 public charging points, with more being installed weekly. Charging infrastructure includes rapid chargers on motorways and destination chargers in supermarkets, car parks, and workplaces.
How far can an EV travel on a single charge?
Range depends on the make and model, with most modern EVs offering 150-300 miles per charge. Premium models can exceed 400 miles.
What is fair wear and tear?
Fair wear and tear refer to the acceptable level of usage-related damage, such as minor scratches or tyre wear. Excessive damage may incur additional charges.
How do I stay mobile if my car is in the garage for repairs?
If your car requires repairs, the garage may provide a courtesy car, subject to availability. The replacement vehicle might not match your EV’s specifications and could be a petrol or diesel model. Fuel costs for such vehicles aren’t covered by the scheme. We aim to ensure this process is as smooth as possible.
When is the ideal time to sell my current car?
The best time to sell your current car is when you have delivery of your new vehicle confirmed with FleetEV, and an accurate delivery estimate or delivery date has been agreed and confirmed.
What should I do with my current car?
If you no longer have use for your existing car, you can sell it to a car buying company, an interested third party or dealership. Recouping this money could go towards the monthly payments, or payment implications on your new car.
In the future we will be looking to bring car selling convenience into our platform, ensuring the process is a seamless as possible for our customers.
I’ve heard about long waiting times. How soon can I get an EV?
Global supply chain issues have affected new car availability, including EVs. However, we’ve pre-ordered popular models by reserving factory slots or purchasing ready-made vehicles to expedite delivery. The timeline depends on your chosen make, model, and customisation preferences.
What’s the difference between tethered and untethered chargers?
A tethered charger has a fixed cable, while an untethered charger requires you to connect your own cable each time. Most EVs come with a cable, or you can purchase one for use with public charging points. Our EV specialists can help you choose the best option for your needs.
What does kWh stand for?
kWh means kilowatt-hour, a unit of stored energy in an electric car’s battery. The battery’s kWh rating indicates its capacity. Chargers are rated in kW, denoting their charging speed. Essentially, a smaller battery paired with a higher-wattage charger will recharge more quickly.
How do I operate an electric car?
Driving an electric car is similar to handling an automatic petrol vehicle but without gears, resulting in a smoother experience. You might need to adjust to regenerative braking, which activates simply by easing off the accelerator.
What does EV mean?
EV stands for electric vehicle.
EVs are powered by an electric battery which means that they produce no CO2 emissions at all. Unlike internal combustion engine (ICE) cars which put carbon into the atmosphere and contribute to air pollution and global warming.
EVs have no engine and no gears, which makes them very powerful and fast. EV drivers charge their cars in the same way that you would do with a mobile phone, top it up when the battery is low at home or using one of the public chargers across the UK.
Salary Sacrifice
What happens if BiK tax rates increase?
Your monthly payments may rise slightly if BiK rates increase, but EVs will still offer significant savings compared to petrol or diesel cars.
Is salary sacrifice available to part-time employees?
Yes, but eligibility depends on your gross income meeting minimum wage requirements after deductions for the car.
Can I upgrade my car during the agreement?
Upgrading during the contract is typically not allowed. You’ll need to wait until the agreement ends to switch to a new model.
Do I need to pay a deposit for a salary sacrifice car?
No, there’s no upfront cost. The monthly payments are deducted directly from your salary.
How does salary sacrifice compare to a personal lease?
Salary sacrifice can be cheaper because it’s paid from pre-tax income, unlike a personal lease where payments are made after tax.
What happens if I go on long-term sick leave while I have an EV on salary sacrifice?
If on long-term sick leave, you can retain the car and continue payments as long as affordable. If your salary falls below minimum wage or statutory pay, coverage is available for up to 3 months from the start of your leave. If you no longer need the car, you can return
What happens if I go on parental leave while I have an EV on salary sacrifice?
During parental leave, you can keep the car and continue payments as long as affordable. If your salary drops below minimum wage or statutory pay, coverage is provided for up to 12 months from the start of your leave. Alternatively, you can return the car, and your employer’s early termination protection will typically cover any fees.
What happens if I leave my job while I have an EV on salary sacrifice?
If you need to return your car before the end of your agreement, an early termination fee may apply, depending on your employer’s protection policies. Check your Driver Handbook for specific details.
What happens when the car needs servicing or maintenance?
The salary sacrifice scheme includes a full maintenance plan covering servicing, batteries, and tyres under normal wear and tear. To arrange service, call our Customer Support Line on 03330 169 630. Upon delivery, you’ll receive a pack with all necessary servicing and maintenance information.
Can I set my annual mileage allowance with salary sacrifice?
Yes, you can select an annual mileage allowance ranging from 5,000 to 30,000 miles.
How long does a salary sacrifice agreement last?
You can choose a term between two and four years.
What’s included with an EV salary sacrifice?
Streamlined Onboarding: Quick and easy setup process to get your business up and running with EV salary sacrifice in no time.
Breakdown Cover
Unlimited Tyre Replacement
Accident Management
Early Termination Protection
Comprehensive Insurance (optional)
Is salary sacrifice available to everyone?
Your employer must join the scheme first. Once enrolled, eligibility typically requires employees to have completed their probation period, hold a permanent contract, be paid via PAYE, possess a valid UK driving licence, and ensure the vehicle cost doesn’t bring their salary below minimum wage. Retirement plans during the contract term may also affect eligibility.
Will my monthly payments for an EV on salary sacrifice remain the same?
Your net payments may vary based on factors like tax bracket changes or government adjustments to BiK rates.
Will I incur company car tax with salary sacrifice?
Yes, you’ll pay Benefit-in-Kind (BiK) tax on an EV through salary sacrifice. The good news is it’s set at just 2% until April 2025, increasing by 1% each year until 2028.
What is salary sacrifice?
Salary sacrifice is an employee benefit scheme where you pay for a car from your gross salary, reducing your taxable income and lowering your Income Tax and National Insurance contributions. This makes leasing an electric vehicle cost-effective, allowing savings of up to 40%.
Leasing
What happens if the EV is damaged?
Repairs due to wear and tear are covered by the scheme. For accidental damage, insurance will handle the claim, but you may need to pay an excess.
Are leased EVs insured?
Leases don’t typically include insurance. You’ll need to arrange your own policy, ensuring it meets the leasing company’s requirements.
Can I buy the car at the end of the lease?
Some lease agreements offer a purchase option at the end of the term. Confirm this with your provider if it’s something you’re interested in.
What happens at the end of the lease?
You return the car to the leasing company. They’ll inspect it for damage and excess mileage. If all is in order, you can start a new lease or walk away.
Can I terminate a lease early?
Early termination is possible but may involve a significant fee. Check the terms of your agreement for details.
Who pays for servicing on a leased EV?
Leasing agreements often include a maintenance package covering servicing, tyre replacement, and breakdown cover. Always confirm this when signing your agreement.
What mileage options are available for a lease?
You can choose annual mileage allowances from 5,000 to 30,000 miles. Exceeding the allowance may result in additional charges.
Can I customise my leased EV?
Leased vehicles can’t usually be permanently customised. However, temporary changes (like roof boxes or phone mounts) are allowed as long as they’re removed at the end of the lease.
How long does an EV lease last?
Lease terms typically range from 24 to 48 months, depending on your preference and needs.
What is an EV lease?
An EV lease is a long-term rental agreement where you pay monthly for the use of an electric vehicle. At the end of the term, you return the car without worrying about depreciation.
What should I expect on delivery day?
Your new EV will come with a basic tutorial, a FleetEV Driver Pack, and a charger. Delivery methods vary; the car might be driven to you or arrive on a transporter. If driven, it may have some mileage and minor dirt. If you have concerns about your EV’s condition upon delivery, please contact our team.