TEST DRIVE

WORDS BY MORVETH WARD

Electric Vehicles (EVs) are quite the talking point now and are becoming the norm, no longer the alien of the motoring world, but more often, the sensible choice - low emissions and generally better for the planet and there’s now a good choice of vehicles, too. And an investment that can make a good financial decision… Matt Trevaskis of Drive Energy, tells of why choosing an EV can be of great financial benefit:

“With the Benefit in Kind (BIK) rate on Electric Vehicles at just 1% in 2021/22 and 2% in 2022/23, the company car driver choosing an EV will take home significantly more of their salary, especially through a Salary Sacrifice scheme, and particularly so with a premium brand EV. And with zero Road Fund Licence, exemption from Clean Air Zone charges and restrictions being introduced in cities around the UK, it can make a lot of sense.

Since April, 100% First Year Capital Allowances can be applied towards the purchase of zero emission cars only and can give significant tax relief to businesses, which can also claim up to £14,000 towards the installation of charging points at their sites for fleet and staff use, whether those are company vehicles or staff-owned cars. If this energy is provided for free it is not considered a taxable benefit. There is still government funding available (until March 2022) towards the installation of a home charging point, even for company car drivers

A 0-60 of 4.5 - some of these can seconds and a even record your usage for expense quoted range up to claims. 292 miles, what’s Longer journeys out of Cornwall are not to like becoming easier, after new investment in rapid charging infrastructure with upgrades already underway at motorway services after a recent buy-out of the principal national charging network.”

So, there really are great rewards for investing in an EV. So, the question is, what car to choose? The mad dash from manufacturers to make sure they get their market share of

the fast growing EV market, before they lose customer loyalty to other brands has meant that there is now a vast choice, that there hasn’t been previously. One of our favourites here at Business Cornwall and one we’re featuring this month, is the Jaguar I-Pace, which our motoring columnist Morveth Ward reviewed previously, thanks to Carrs Jaguar Land Rover.

Commenting, Morveth said:

“The I-Pace is a very well-rounded car that came to the premium end of the market with great acclaim. New generation Jaguar refinement and luxury, coupled with planet saving eco credentials.

“I see the I-Pace as a luxury performance SUV which is reflected in the body design which compares to both coupes and SUVs alike – Its distinct and bold look turns heads, but being electric and with a softer carbon footprint means it’s hard to resultingly label it ostentatious, when it’s trying to do its bit for the planet.

The drive is effortless and refined, just with a hint of tyre noise, which kind of indicates how quiet the rest is as there’s nothing to drown it out. The ride is beautifully smooth and uncompromised by the big 20” (or optional 22”) wheels. With Jaguar character and quality, a 0-60 of 4.5 seconds and a quoted range up to 292 miles, what’s not to like.”

The I-PACE is currently available to purchase from £65,245. Contact: Carrs Jaguar Land Rover, Scorrier 01872 398883

The award-winning all-electric Jaguar I-PACE delivers 0 - 60 mph in 4.5 seconds with zero tailpipe emissions. Rapid charge up to 78 miles in just 15 minutes.* And up to 292 miles of electric range,^ thanks to its aerodynamic design and advanced driver technologies.

Choose a new Jaguar, estimate your annual mileage and select an initial rental and preferred contract term between 24 and 60 months.

Now that’s peace of mind that gets the pulse racing.

To find out more, search Jaguar I-PACE Business Contract Hire.

Carrs Jaguar 6, Cornwall Business Park West, Scorrier, Redruth, TR16 5BN 01872 263377

I-PACE BUSINESS CONTRACT HIRE BENEFITS.

Low rental cost

Flexabilty to change your contract term and mileage

No worry of selling the vehicle at the end of the contracr

Optional maintenance and service packages

*When using DC rapid charging. ^The figures provided are as a result of official manufacturer’s tests in accordance with EU legislation with fully charged battery. For comparison purposes only. Real world figures may differ. Energy consumption and range figures may vary according to factors such as driving styles, environmental conditions, load, wheel fitment, accessories fitted, actual route and battery condition. Range figures are based upon production vehicle over a standardised route.