The number of electric cars in Britain recently hit the 200,000 milestone, indicating that the UK is finally coming round to the inevitable idea of an emission-free future.
But why wait until then? Electric car owners are already experiencing the cost-saving benefits of an electric car, such as reduced mileage costs, improved performance and cheaper tax rates.
Among those looking to jump on the bandwagon are businesses. With company cars having a significant drain on finances, savvy business owners can make a hefty saving by upgrading their fleet to the electric variety.
So, what are the rules around low-emission cars and tax?
Tax
A company car is always considered a benefit in kind (BiK) if it is given to an employee, which means the correct amount of tax must be paid. The value of the benefit is calculated the same as any other vehicle. However, electric vehicles do benefit slightly – it is based on the vehicle’s emissions, the list price and the income of the employee who primarily uses the car.
For 2019-20, the rate for zero-emission vehicles is 16 per cent. This is likely to drop to zero to 14 per cent in 2020-21 depending on the type of electric vehicle.
Also note that the list price, or P11D value, includes the cost of the battery, regardless of whether the battery is leased or not. The value of the car may also be reduced if the employee only keeps the car part-time or if they contribute towards the cost of the vehicle.
You can use this handy tool to work out the estimated cost of the vehicle to both the employer and the employee.
Provision of charging facilities
To encourage the use of electric vehicles, there is an exemption from a benefit in kind for workplace charging of low-emission vehicles. The exemption covers the cost of electricity and the cost to the employer providing the facility.
To qualify for the exemption, the following conditions need to be met:
- There must be a dedicated charging point (purpose-built)
- The charging facility must be at an employer’s premises and has to be available to all employees; and
- The car or van must be driven by the employee or the employee has to be one of the passengers.
Business mileage
For personal use, the standard rate of mileage allowance is used. For business use only, pure electric cars use a mileage rate of 4p per mile and hybrid cars use a combined mileage rate based on what the hybrid fuel is (petrol or gas).
Capital gains tax
Most electric cars and some hybrid cars benefit from a 100 per cent enhanced capital allowance relief. Please note, this rate only applies where Co2 emissions are 50g/km or less and the car has been purchased new.
Need more advice? Get in touch with our expert team for help and support.
