Research by Go Ultra Low has found 70% of professionals think their employers should consider electric company cars following changes to Benefit-in-Kind tax.
What's more, nearly a third (30%) of those surveyed would like the company they work for to install EV charge points, and 31% would like to see EV carpooling or company cars introduced.
The findings follow changes to Benefit-in-Kind (BIK) tax this year, which means that EVs now incur a 0% tax rate, down from 16%.
Despite the changes to BIK coming into effect in April, just a quarter (25%) of professionals knew about the reduced tax. Once made aware, over four in ten (42%) said they were more likely to consider choosing an EV as a company car. Three quarters (73%) agreed that the measures were a positive way to encourage people to switch to an EV and a large majority thought their companies should consider offering EVs (70%) as a result. Two thirds (63%) said they would be happy to drive an electric car, citing their reduced running costs (60%) and environmental benefits (53%) as their most appealing factors.
Workers acknowledged the challenging financial conditions their employers were operating in, with 39% suggesting that budget constraints could be holding back their employer from introducing greener initiatives. This means EVs may prove an attractive option for businesses looking to make their operations more sustainable, with the changes to BIK tax being available alongside other financial incentives, such as the £3,000 Plug-in Car Grant and £8,000 Plug-in Van grant from the Government.
Poppy Welch said: “There are a variety of steps that businesses can take to be more sustainable, but it can be difficult to know where to start – especially when a number of measures require an upfront cost to implement. Recent changes to BIK tax means EVs offer low-hanging fruit to employers looking to enhance their company’s green credentials. From their reduced environmental impact, to the savings you can make on fuel, tax and maintenance costs, EVs bring significant benefits.”
2,000 UK professionals who drive were questioned by One Poll on behalf of Go Ultra Low.
