The cost of both slow and fast flat-rate charging at public chargers increased in April, according to new AA analysis.

Slow charging at a supermarket is still on average 5p a mile cheaper than petrol costs

Its latest EV Recharge Report shows a 5p/kWh increase in flat-rate slow charging, as well as a 1p/kWh increase in flat-rate fast charging last month.

The rise in flat-rate slow charging was the result of Tesco putting up the cost of its electric vehicle charging network, with rates increasing to 44p per kWh from 3 April, which pumped up the average price by 5p/kWh.

But while the AA said the increase was disappointing, it added that the cost of charging has remained static and incredibly affordable on the whole, especially for the fastest charging speeds.

It also pointed out that compared to petrol costs, which have fallen in the past month, slow charging at a supermarket is on average 5p a mile cheaper while even flat-rate fast charging is cheaper (see tables below).

However, worrying numbers of fleets may miss out the benefits of electrification, including cheaper running costs, after recent research by Bridgestone and Webfleet indicated that more than three-quarters of operators (76%) are delaying the switch due to cost pressures.

AA president Edmund King warned that we’re at an important phase on the road to zero-emission vehicles with the ban on new petrol and diesel cars just seven years away.

He added that it was crucial for fleets to lead the way to mainstream electrification, delivering cheaper running costs and lower carbon footprints to companies while also creating a healthy used EV market as a result of fleet sales.

King elaborated: “There appears to be some stalling along the road to electrification from three-quarters of fleets trying to save on capital costs. For some fleets this could backfire as they will miss out on lower running costs whilst being hit with higher repair bills on an aging fleet. It will also have a knock-on effect and further delay the uptake of EVs into the mass market.

“We are in a period of flux and uncertainty for many private drivers. Do we buy a used EV now or wait until the cars have a longer range or battery longevity is further tested?”

Boosting the appeal of going electric, there are many used EVs now available for a bargain – the AA said some used electric cars with less than 10,000 miles on the clock are being offered for half the price at new.

King continued: “There are some bargains out there and it could push those in two minds to make the leap to electric. Hybrid values seem to support that, showing popularity among those wanting to keep a foot in both camps. Drivers should remember that running costs for an EV are considerably lower, they drive well, are better for the environment and are fun to drive.”

AA EV Recharge Report, April 2023. Flat rates:

AA EV Recharge Report, April 2023. Peak and Off-Peak rates: