Off-peak rates on ultra-rapid chargers remain cheaper per mile than petrol-fuelled cars, despite falling pump prices.

The pence-per-mile cost to use an ultra-rapid charger off-peak in December 2023 was cheaper than refuelling a comparative petrol car

The AA’s newly published EV Recharge Report reveals that it cost 12.81 pence per mile to use an ultra-rapid charger during off-peak hours in December 2023 – compared to 13.54 pence per mile for a comparative petrol car.

That’s with taking into account a 1 pence per kWh rise in ultra-rapid off-peak costs. All other peak and off-peak charging costs remained flat across the board.

The tracking does reveal a rise in flat-rate charging costs, where the rate is the same all day long, in December. These were up by 1p per kWh for fast (8-22kW) chargers, 2p for rapid (23-100kW) and 3p for both slow (up to 7kW) and ultra-rapid (+101kW).

However, EV drivers with access to a home charger typically carry out 95% of their recharging at home, providing the cheapest rates, even when in a ‘worst case’ situation by being on the Energy Price Guarantee fees.

The AA added that the report shows minimal shift in prices across 2023 – and looks “positively static” compared to the ‘rocket and feather’ approach to pump pricing.

And it said the expected growth in charging infrastructure should help drive price competition.

AA EV Recharge Report – 2023 flat rate tracker:

AA EV Recharge Report – 2023 peak and off-peak rate tracker:

Jack Cousens, head of roads policy for the AA, said: “Throughout 2023 EV charging costs have offered good value for money while operators have tried their hardest to defer or delay any price increases.

“Even when there have been rises, operators have kept increases minimal. Where possible they have reduced costs quickly so the price paid at the charger fairly reflects the cost of energy.

“We are expecting a boom in charging infrastructure installations in 2024. Not only will this counter the unfounded fears of running out of charge, it will also build stronger competition within the market as operators will battle it out amongst the ever-growing EV car parc.”

AA EV Recharge Report, December 2023 – Flat rates:

AA EV Recharge Report, December 2023 – Peak and Off-Peak rates:

Average prices are the PAYG options without connection fee as of 18 December 2023. Subscriptions are available for all charge point speeds which can unlock a cheaper p/kWh, however rates vary across provider.

Charging calculations are based on adding 80% to a Vauxhall Corsa Electric, 50kW, with a WLTP range of 222 miles, while the petrol comparison is with a Vauxhall Corsa 75hp 1.2-litre and an 80% refuel.