7 Shockingly Good EVs You Can Buy in the UK for Under £30K

Let’s be honest—EVs used to be expensive, and cheap ones felt like glorified golf carts. 

Not anymore. 

Thanks to growing competition from Chinese and European manufacturers, along with updated incentives and better tech, 2025 is the first year where a £30K budget gives you genuinely good options.

You don’t have to settle for a tiny range or stripped-down interiors. 

Whether you’re in Bristol, Birmingham, or Glasgow, these EVs prove that the UK market has finally hit its stride for value-packed electric cars.

Here are seven models that deliver way more than you’d expect—without breaking your budget.

 Key Highlights

• Budget EVs are no longer boring. These 2025 picks offer real-world range, tech, and style.
• Ideal for UK city drivers, commuters, and first-time EV buyers.
• Every EV listed is available brand new under £30,000 (base models).
• Most qualify for reduced road tax and congestion zone exemptions.

1. MG4 EV Standard Range

• Starting Price: ~£26,000
• Range: 218 miles (WLTP)
• Why It’s Shocking:

MG is dominating the UK EV space for a reason. The MG4 doesn’t just undercut rivals—it drives well, looks modern, and even includes advanced driver-assist features. It’s roomy enough for a small family and has fast-charging up to 117 kW.

My take: I’d pick this over a VW ID.3 any day if budget matters. Better value, better handling.

2. BYD Dolphin Comfort

• Starting Price: ~£25,500
• Range: 265 miles
• Why It’s Shocking:

BYD’s aggressive UK pricing has thrown the EV market a curveball. The Dolphin is stylish, smooth, and comes with impressive tech like a rotating touchscreen. Battery tech is BYD’s own Blade system—safe, long-lasting, and efficient.

3. Fiat 500e (Hatchback)

• Starting Price: ~£28,195
• Range: 190 miles
• Why It’s Shocking:

Cute and compact, the 500e is perfect for urban driving. Despite its size, it’s packed with personality and surprisingly solid infotainment. Plus, free charging deals sometimes come bundled with new purchases.

4. Renault Zoe E-Tech Electric

• Starting Price: ~£29,995
• Range: 239 miles
• Why It’s Shocking:

Still one of the most popular EVs in the UK, even after a decade. It’s zippy, practical, and works well for daily commuting. Renault has quietly improved the Zoe over time—making it safer and smarter in 2025.

5. Smart #1 Pro

• Starting Price: ~£29,000
• Range: 190 miles
• Why It’s Shocking:

Forget what you knew about old Smart cars. The new #1 is co-developed with Geely (Volvo’s parent company) and looks way more premium than its price tag suggests. Excellent cabin design and perfect for tight UK roads.

6. Vauxhall Corsa Electric (2025 Facelift)

• Starting Price: ~£29,500
• Range: 222 miles
• Why It’s Shocking:

Vauxhall’s best-selling hatch now comes with improved range and a sharper design for 2025. It’s familiar, practical, and backed by a nationwide dealer network. Great for first-time EV owners.

7. ORA Funky Cat First Edition

• Starting Price: ~£29,995
• Range: 193 miles
• Why It’s Shocking:

Love it or hate it, the Funky Cat is bold. You get a plush interior, adaptive cruise, and a 5-star Euro NCAP safety rating. It feels more “premium” than many competitors twice the price.

Going Electric Without Going Broke

Going electric doesn’t have to mean spending £40K+ anymore. 

The 2025 class of EVs under £30K is practical, well-equipped, and surprisingly fun to drive. Whether you care about tech, range, or just want to future-proof your next car, these seven models prove that value EVs are finally here—and they’re good.