9 Facts About Electric Cars That Might Shock You!

Is it us, or are electric cars absolutely everywhere at the minute?! Though the UK may be a little behind compared to the United States, electric vehicle (EV) sales are soaring. Whether it’s because you’re interested in more sustainable solutions to get around, or you’re simply fascinated by the glorious Tesla, there’s plenty to like about electric cars - especially in a world where fuel is becoming increasingly scarce. 😱

In fact, sales for EVs shot up during the mini fuel crisis, with the number of sales recorded in September 2021 close to the figure for the whole of 2019. As a nation, we're becoming more environmentally conscious but also seek convenience and cost-saving measures.

Electric vehicles offer all three in abundance, so if you are now wondering "what do I need to know about electric cars?", here are nine facts about EVs that you may wish to know if you're considering going electric for your next vehicle.  

There Are More EV Charging Points Than Petrol Stations


Yep, you read that right. Though it may seem mind-boggling, there are considerably more electric charging stations in the UK than there are petrol stations. In 2021, there were over 25,000 electric charging points across the country vs 8,400 petrol stations only. In the past year, the number of electric charging stations in the UK has increased by 57%! We can expect these numbers to grow even further in the coming years.

Electric Cars Were Invented 138 Years Ago

Hmm, this list seems to be getting more and more surprising. Electric cars are often portrayed as the future of motoring, but they aren't actually as new as you might think. The first production of an electric vehicle was 138 years ago when English inventor Thomas Parker introduced several electric innovations to the UK. Good ol’ Thomas also invented electric taxis, electric tramways and, oh, just the London Underground!

Electric Cars Cost 50% Less Than Petrol and Diesel

Though you’ll find that the initial cost of purchasing an electric vehicle is higher, running the car down the line is substantially cheaper. The long-term benefits of an electric vehicle might very well outweigh the high upfront cost. 

For example, if you were to buy a Jaguar I-PACE, which is an electric vehicle, the running cost would be £425.70 per year. However, with a Jaguar F-PACE which is diesel, it would cost you £1,203.50 to run yearly. 

Now, yes, you’re probably thinking “okay but it’s so much more expensive to buy, is it actually worth it?”. Well, first, there are plenty of more affordable EV options. The Mazda MX-30 for example costs £27,145 brand new, and the Peugeot e-208 starts from £27,225. You could also look at purchasing a used EV, which is also much cheaper than new. 

With that in mind, you may find that buying an electric vehicle will be significantly cheaper than petrol or diesel cars, especially at the moment. At nearly 218.9p for Diesel, fuel is like liquid gold at the moment!

Braking Adds Miles to Your Range

Electric cars have regenerative braking, which means some electricity goes back to the battery when you brake. That means braking helps you get more juice out of the car and go further in miles. So not only are electric cars environmentally friendly, but they take you that little further when you hit the brakes. Also, how satisfying would it be to know that you’re getting more for your money every single time you break?! 

Electric Cars Aren’t Allowed to Be Silent Anymore

All electric and hybrid cars are now legally required to make an artificial noise when driving. This is so they can be easily heard by cyclists and pedestrians, reducing the chance of accidents in the process. The noise starts at around 13 mph and emits from the car's exterior, so it'll still be a nice, quiet ride for the driver. 

Can you remember when EVs first came about, and you’d find yourself being crept up on by one of them? It was scary! We definitely prefer our EVs with a bit of noise. 

There Are More Electric Cars on the Road Than Ever


Today, the UK has more than 345,000 electric cars on the road, with sales increasing by 186%. Further to that, you'll find 657,00 hybrids in action on UK roads, and the numbers are only set to rise as EVs gain popularity. In the whole world, The Volkswagen Group alone sold 231,624 electric vehicles to people in 2020 which is over three times more than in 2019.

Electric Vehicles Are on the Moon

Ok, so you can't hop behind the wheel of a Tesla Model 3 and drive about on the moon (yet). But NASA Lunar Rover, which is used to roam about on the moon, is powered by electricity. As far as vehicles on the moon go, it's EVs 1 petrol cars 0. 

The Best-Selling Electric Car Might Not Be What You Think

Are you one of the many people who think of Tesla when they think of an electric car? Yeah, we get you. It’s safe to say that Tesla has made a pretty permanent mark in the EV world! However, surprisingly, it’s not actually the best-selling car here in Europe. That accolade goes to Renault with its Zoe, a battery-powered electric car that seems to be the go-to option for motorists going electric. It’s small, it’s compact, it’s ergonomic, it’s easy, and it only costs £29,240 compared to a whopping £94,990 for the Tesla Model S.

You Can Use an Electric Car to Power Your House

Electric cars are essentially batteries on wheels, which means you can use the electricity in your car to supply power to your home if you have the right equipment. Electric car batteries can also power outdoor events. Say goodbye to generators and hello to EV battery packs. Amazing, right? 😮

Fact, not fiction

That's your nine electric car facts to keep you in the know about EVs so hopefully now you know the truth about electric cars. So when it comes to buying an electric vehicle, you can wow the dealer with your knowledge and show them you're a real EV connoisseur. If you’re in need of more EV knowledge, head over to the Carmoola blog and browse through our huge library of car facts and resources. We’ve got you covered! 👍