Experts have called for the introduction of new electric car charging rules to end the “driveway discrimination” faced by electric car owners. Under the current system, motorists are charged just 5% VAT on electricity used at home compared to 20% in public. 
It means homeowners and renters without access to their own private driveways are forced to pay more to top up and use their EVs. Matt Galvin, Managing Director of PolestarK, explained that individuals without driveways are “penalised” by the rule, with changes needed. 
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We use your sign-up to provide content in ways you’ve consented to and to improve our understanding of you. This may include adverts from us and 3rd parties based on our understanding. You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our Privacy PolicySpeaking exclusively to the Express, Matt said: “We don’t see owners of EVs without driveways being unfairly punished. While we await more information on how the bill could benefit EV owners, we have long called for VAT on public charging to match the lower rate applied to home charging. 
“Ending what many call ’driveway discrimination’ must be a priority. Currently, charging at home incurs just 5% VAT, whereas public charging attracts the full 20%. This penalises urban households without driveways—often younger, less affluent renters and early adopters—and creates a two-tier system.”
Previous analysis has shown that some of the most expensive public charge points cost up to ten times more than the cheapest home tariff. Some drivers have been known to pay up to 98p per kWh to top up their cars in public, with the cheapest home rates just 8p per kWh. 
A recent survey has found that electric car owners who rely on public charging are more dissatisfied than those with off-street parking.
A new poll from the Electric Vehicle Association (EVA) found that 87% of EV drivers with a driveway or garage found their cars were cheaper to run than petrol or diesel models. Meanwhile, this was only the case for 50% of EV owners who had to rely on public charging points. 
Speaking to the Express, Matt added: “Walking around congested towns and cities, the smell of petrol and diesel in the air is unmistakable. This is why previous governments have committed to phase out non-electric vehicles. With EV sales are increasing, and the latest models being the most technologically advanced, efficient, and environmentally friendly vehicles ever produced, more drivers are clearly deciding to go green and enjoy the benefits.”
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