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New analysis reveals that UK plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) owners are collectively wasting £70.9 million each year by not utilizing smart home chargers and cost-effective electricity tariffs. With 865,000 PHEVs on UK roads, adopting smarter charging practices could lead to significant savings for drivers.
Key Highlights
- £70.9 million wasted annually by PHEV owners.
- 21% of PHEV owners lack smart home chargers.
- 118,254 drivers could save £599.94 each year.
- Smart chargers and EV tariffs offer £0.07 per kWh compared to £0.25 per kWh.
- New PHEV owners could save £10.2 million in 2025.
- Smart charger investment recoups costs in two years.
The Cost of Inefficient Charging
With 865,000 PHEVs registered in the UK, the potential for savings through efficient charging is substantial. Research shows that 21% of PHEV owners—approximately 181,650 drivers—do not have a smart home charging unit. Of these, 65% have off-street parking, making them eligible to install a smart charger. By relying on conventional three-pin plugs and standard electricity rates, 118,254 drivers are overpaying by £599.94 annually, contributing to a nationwide loss of £70,945,304.76.
Smart home chargers, paired with EV-specific nighttime tariffs, allow drivers to charge at £0.07 per kilowatt-hour (kWh), a significant reduction from the average £0.25 per kWh. This cost difference highlights the financial benefits of upgrading charging infrastructure.
Industry Insights and Solutions
David Martell, CEO of Andersen EV, a Bedfordshire-based manufacturer of EV charge points, emphasizes the missed opportunity for PHEV owners. “While battery electric vehicle (BEV) drivers have embraced smart chargers to save money, many PHEV owners have yet to adapt,” Martell explains. He notes that modern PHEVs, with electric-only ranges of up to 88 miles in models like the Volkswagen Golf eHybrid and Audi A3 Sportback e-tron, make efficient charging even more critical.
Installing a smart charger, such as the Andersen Quartz, costs approximately £1,100 with professional installation. This investment can be recouped in just two years through savings on electricity bills, while also offering faster and safer charging.
Growing PHEV Market
According to the Society of Motor Manufacturers & Traders (SMMT), 124,528 new PHEVs were registered in the UK in 2025. If these new owners adopt smart charging, they could collectively save £10.2 million over the next 12 months. The increasing popularity of PHEVs, combined with advancements in battery technology, underscores the importance of cost-effective charging solutions.
Modern PHEVs: Enhanced Electric Range
Today’s PHEVs offer impressive electric-only ranges, making them ideal for drivers aiming to reduce fuel costs. Notable models include:
- Volkswagen Golf eHybrid: 88 miles
- Audi A3 Sportback e-tron: 88 miles
- Skoda Superb Estate iV PHEV: 84 miles
- Seat Leon e-Hybrid: 82 miles
- Volkswagen Passat eHybrid: 82 miles
- BYD Seal U DM-i: 78 miles
- Mercedes-Benz GLC 300e: 78 miles
- Range Rover Sport PHEV: 75 miles
- MG HS Plug-in Hybrid: 75 miles
- Volkswagen Tiguan eHybrid: 77 miles
- Renault Rafale E-Tech PHEV: 65 miles
- BMW 3 Series 330e: 62 miles
These ranges allow drivers to rely on electric power for most daily commutes, amplifying the savings potential of smart charging.
A Path to Smarter Savings
By installing smart home chargers and switching to EV-specific tariffs, PHEV owners can significantly reduce their electricity costs. With a return on investment in just two years and the added benefits of faster, safer charging, the case for upgrading is clear. As the PHEV market continues to grow, adopting these technologies will be key to maximizing savings and efficiency.
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