6 Best Electric Car Scheme Alternatives: Salary Sacrifice Compared
The Electric Car Scheme has helped popularise EV salary sacrifice in the UK, but it’s far from the only route. Different providers vary widely in pricing, car availability, lead times, insurance cover, early-termination protection and employer admin, all of which can make a big difference to how the scheme works in practice.
Several providers now offer competitive features, transparent pricing models, and comprehensive early termination protection that may better suit your business needs.
This guide compares six leading Electric Car Scheme alternatives, examining what they offer, where they differ, and which delivers genuine value for both employers and employees.
Electric Car Scheme Alternatives: A snapshot
According to recent industry analysis, 83% of UK businesses showed interest in implementing an electric car scheme in early 2025, reflecting the growing demand for EV salary sacrifice as the 2030 petrol and diesel ban approaches.
What to look for in your Electric Car Scheme alternative
When comparing providers, focus on these six critical factors that determine whether a scheme truly delivers value:
Transparent pricing
Look for providers who disclose their fees upfront. loveelectric's transparent B Corp pricing shows exactly how quotes are built, with no hidden margins or inflated lease prices. Their service fee equals the employer's NIC savings, keeping schemes genuinely cost-neutral.
Avoid providers bundling "free" extras like chargers into higher monthly lease costs. True transparency means seeing the breakdown before you commit.
Comprehensive protection from Day 1
Early termination protection varies dramatically between providers. Some only cover resignation after six months. Others, like loveelectric's Zero Risk Guarantee, provide complete protection from Day 1 for dismissal, redundancy, and non-accidental death.
Protection isn't just about employees leaving. The best schemes also safeguard employers against unexpected costs when circumstances change.
Range and availability: new and used EVs
loveelectric is the only provider offering both new and used EVs through their reloved® marketplace, making electric driving accessible to employees on modest salaries. This inclusivity drives higher scheme uptake across your workforce.
Access to 300+ dealers and multiple leasing partners means better vehicle availability, shorter wait times, and more competitive pricing through genuine market comparison.
Minimal admin and payroll integration
Setup time matters. loveelectric can launch schemes in as little as 7 days with magic-link onboarding systems and automated payroll reports, eliminating manual administrative burden.
Look for providers offering dedicated employer portals that consolidate all information into one dashboard, making ongoing management genuinely hands-off.
Sustainability alignment and B Corp credentials
loveelectric holds B Corp certification with an impact score of 102.0, well above the median score of 50.9 for ordinary businesses. This demonstrates verified commitment to social and environmental responsibility, not just marketing claims.
B Corp certification means transparent governance, ethical practices, and accountability, crucial for employers prioritising genuine sustainability goals.
1. loveelectric — a more affordable, risk-free salary sacrifice provider
loveelectric has established itself as Best Salary Sacrifice Broker 2025 according to industry judges, who highlighted their "impressive digital credentials, customer-led approach and absolute focus on sustainability".
Founded in Edinburgh by early EV adopters Steve and Lyndsey Tigar, loveelectric's team includes best-in-field talent from developers in Ukraine to Customer Success agents from Toronto, ensuring you partner with true specialists in EV salary sacrifice.
Head-to-head: loveelectric vs Electric Car Scheme
What's included in loveelectric's salary sacrifice scheme
Every loveelectric lease includes everything employees need in one monthly payment:
- Comprehensive insurance — Fully comprehensive cover with optional add-ons available at checkout
- Full maintenance package — Servicing, MOT, breakdown assistance, and roadside recovery included
- Tyre and glass replacement — Complete peace of mind for wear-and-tear items
- Dedicated support — Email support at hello@loveelectric.cars with responsive customer service
- Exclusive Charge Card — Save up to 60% on all EV charging costs (home and public) through HMRC-compliant salary sacrifice, compatible with every Tesla charger in the UK
- Optional home charger — Partnerships with industry leaders like Hypervolt for discounted installation
- Flexible lease terms — 12-month minimum with options from 24-48 months
- No deposit required — Zero upfront costs for employees, unlike traditional leasing
Employees can save up to 60% compared to personal leasing through pre-tax salary deductions, making premium EVs genuinely affordable across salary bands.
Why loveelectric is the best Electric Car Scheme alternative
Genuine cost neutrality for employers
loveelectric's administration fee is designed to equal the employer's NIC savings achieved when an employee takes out a lease, guaranteeing your business pays nothing to run the scheme.
Unlike providers with hidden setup costs or ongoing management fees, loveelectric's transparent fee structure ensures you're never out of pocket.
Industry-leading risk protection
loveelectric's Zero Risk Guarantee provides total protection for businesses from Day 1, covering resignation, redundancy, dismissal, and non-accidental death. No waiting periods. No unexpected costs. Complete peace of mind.
This protection extends beyond standard early termination clauses, offering comprehensive coverage that genuinely safeguards employers against all employment changes.
Unmatched vehicle choice and affordability
loveelectric's reloved® used marketplace provides quality-assured used EVs alongside new models, dramatically lowering the entry point with EVs available to employees earning just £27,000.
With access to every EV on the market through 300+ dealers, employees aren't limited to a single funder's stock. They get genuine choice across makes, models, and price points.
Digital-first technology platform
loveelectric takes a digital-first approach, developing and using proprietary technology that streamlines everything from initial quotes to payroll integration.
Employees access personalised quotes through a dedicated web app with salary sacrifice calculations done automatically. Employers get a custom portal consolidating all scheme data into one digestible dashboard.
Exclusive Charge Card — up to 60% savings on charging
loveelectric's newly launched Charge Card is a game-changing addition available to any employee with an EV leased through their company (not limited to loveelectric vehicles).
Through a standalone HMRC-compliant salary sacrifice agreement, employees can save up to 60% on all charging costs—both public and home charging. The Charge Card is the only card compatible with every Tesla Supercharger in the UK, plus all other public charging networks.
Employees tell loveelectric their annual mileage and charging patterns. loveelectric calculates the cost, sets up the salary sacrifice deduction, and credits the exclusive VISA Charge Card monthly. This turns charging from a post-tax expense into a pre-tax benefit, delivering substantial savings every time employees charge.
Verified sustainability credentials
As a certified B Corp, loveelectric meets verified standards for social and environmental performance, transparency, and accountability. This certification demonstrates commitment to using business as a force for good.
loveelectric estimates they've helped businesses and employees reduce emissions by approximately 5,760t CO₂e, equivalent to planting over 267,000 trees.
Lightning-fast setup and onboarding
loveelectric provides early termination protection as standard, marketing materials, a unique link to their live quotation site, and ongoing support with payroll and tax arrangements.
The onboarding process includes employee webinars, bespoke promotions, and dedicated support ensuring your business gets maximum value from the scheme from day one.
Learn more about how EV salary sacrifice works for employers and employees.
2. Octopus EV — energy-integrated salary sacrifice
Octopus EV brings energy company expertise to EV salary sacrifice, offering integrated charging solutions that appeal to employees already in the Octopus Energy ecosystem.
What's included in Octopus EV's salary sacrifice scheme
- Owned fleet model — Octopus owns the vehicles, which can mean less competitive pricing than multi-funder brokers
- Free home charger OR 4,000 free miles — Choice between free Ohme charger installation or 4,000 free miles via Electroverse, both valued around £600
- Intelligent Octopus Go tariff — Exclusive ultra-low overnight charging rates through Octopus Energy
- Comprehensive insurance and maintenance — Servicing, tyres, and AA breakdown cover included
- Fast setup — Could be driving within two weeks of approval
- Early termination protection — Kicks in after 6 months
Why Octopus EV is a good Electric Car Scheme alternative
Energy ecosystem integration
Octopus EV partners with OVO to provide customers with 5,000 free miles and discounted home charger installation through Hypervolt. For employees already using Octopus Energy, this integration simplifies billing and maximises savings.
The Intelligent Octopus Go tariff automatically schedules charging during the cheapest electricity periods, optimising running costs without employee intervention.
Strong brand reputation
Octopus EV is rated 4.8 out of 5 stars on Trustpilot, reflecting consistent customer satisfaction. The Octopus Group is certified B Corp since 2011, demonstrating long-term commitment to ethical business practices.
Considerations
Octopus EV owns the cars they offer, which means pricing may not be as competitive as providers working with multiple funders. The energy benefits are tied to using Octopus's own energy products, which won't suit every employee or employer setup.
Early termination protection only starts after six months, unlike loveelectric's Day 1 coverage.
[Explore Octopus EV alternatives in our detailed comparison.]
3. DriveElectric — EV specialist with charging expertise
DriveElectric has been helping organisations adopt EVs since 2008, bringing 15+ years of electric vehicle expertise to salary sacrifice schemes. Unlike general brokers, DriveElectric specialises exclusively in electric mobility solutions.
What's included in DriveElectric's salary sacrifice scheme
- Wide vehicle choice — Access to all major EV makes and models, from compact city cars to large SUVs
- Pod Point home charger integration — Professionally installed Pod Point charger for as little as £14 per month, yours to keep at contract end
- EDF energy partnership — Exclusive residential EV tariff with overnight rate of 8p per kWh, saving 75% compared to standard tariffs
- Comprehensive package — Insurance, maintenance, servicing, and breakdown cover included
- New and used EVs — Options for both brand new and quality second-hand electric vehicles
- Zero upfront costs — No deposit required for employees to access the scheme
- Secure online portal — 24/7 access for employees to search, select, and order EVs entirely online
Why DriveElectric is a good Electric Car Scheme alternative
Deep EV and charging expertise
DriveElectric's 15 years specialising exclusively in electric vehicles means dedicated consultants can advise on EVs, supported by tax and compliance specialists and on-call support teams.
This specialist knowledge extends to charging infrastructure through their sister company CrowdCharge, offering workplace charging, solar, vehicle-to-grid, and energy management solutions.
Integrated energy solutions
Through partnerships with EDF and Pod Point, DriveElectric offers one of the most comprehensive packages: the EV, home charger installation, and preferential energy tariffs all bundled together.
Employees benefit from 8p/kWh overnight charging rates through the Pod Point EV Exclusive tariff, dramatically reducing running costs beyond the salary sacrifice savings alone.
Modular, flexible approach
DriveElectric's modular schemes are specifically designed for business leaders, with tailor-made packages matching your exact needs rather than one-size-fits-all offerings.
The company assists organisations in promoting schemes to employees and can organise EV test-drive events, supporting adoption through education and hands-on experience.
Proven cost savings
Example savings compared to personal leasing include £260 monthly on a Tesla Model Y or £206 monthly on an MG4 SE for 40% taxpayers. Employees save up to 40% on EVs while reducing emissions by approximately 20 tonnes CO2 equivalent over the vehicle lifetime.
Considerations
DriveElectric's strength lies in EV and charging expertise rather than broader mobility solutions. Their model works best for organisations committed to electric-only fleets rather than those wanting hybrid or traditional fuel options.
As a specialist provider, their pricing and charging integration benefits are optimised for employees who can install home chargers and access overnight tariffs, which may not suit all living situations.
4. Fleet Evolution — offering EV salary sacrifice since 2012
Fleet Evolution launched the UK's first electric vehicle salary sacrifice scheme in 2012, paving the way for other challenger brands for a decade. They've built a reputation for low administration and strong experience.
What's included in Fleet Evolution's salary sacrifice scheme
- Lightning-fast setup — Can be operational within one day, making it one of the quickest implementations in the industry
- Free workplace charging — Businesses with 5+ employees on the scheme receive a complimentary two-port 22kWh charger
- All EVs available — Access to all current EV models, including used vehicles and cancelled orders for faster delivery
- Electric Flex option — Up to 4 weeks per year of diesel/petrol car rental for long trips outside EV range
- Low admin burden — Fleet Evolution handles contract variations, recharges directly to employees, HMRC clearance, and compliance
- Dedicated support teams — Separate Driverline Team for employees and Engagement Team for employers
- Online quote engine — Free tool allowing employees to easily find and customise their ideal car
- Optional vehicle purchase — Employees can buy their leased vehicle at end of agreement at current market value
Why Fleet Evolution is a good Electric Car Scheme alternative
First-mover advantage and proven experience
Fleet Evolution pioneered the UK's first electric vehicle salary sacrifice scheme in 2011/2012, giving them over 13 years of deep expertise in navigating employer and employee needs.
This first-mover advantage means they've encountered and solved challenges that newer providers are only now discovering, translating to smoother operations for your business.
Accessibility for lower earners
Fleet Evolution calculates that employees earning as little as £32,000 can comfortably afford an electric car through salary sacrifice—a significant milestone for vehicle accessibility.
Over 80% of employees in their scheme are choosing their first new car, with the MG4 being the most popular choice for first-time buyers, representing "a very attractive package with high specification and genuine 200-plus electric mileage."
Scalability across business sizes
Whether you have 3 or 20,000 employees, Fleet Evolution's systems scale appropriately. Their partnership with Unipres UK over the past decade helped save over 1 million kilograms of CO₂ emissions, demonstrating capability with larger fleets.
Free workplace charging infrastructure
As soon as five team members opt for salary sacrifice EVs, Fleet Evolution rewards your business with a free two-port 22kWh charger, removing one of the key barriers to EV adoption.
Electric Flex for range confidence
The innovative Electric Flex option provides up to 4 weeks per year of traditional fuel vehicle rental for long journeys, overcoming range anxiety and encouraging more employees to choose electric.
Considerations
Fleet Evolution's standard eligibility typically requires three years of trading history and a robust balance sheet, though they do consider start-ups with compelling business plans and overseas-owned companies with solid reputations.
Their focus on ultra-low emission vehicles means they may not suit organisations wanting comprehensive multi-fuel fleet options, though their Electric Flex provides backup for exceptional circumstances.
While their one-day setup is impressive, the speed depends on employer preparedness with documentation and internal approvals being ready to move quickly.
5. Tusker — established multi-fuel fleet specialist
Tusker began offering car schemes in 2008, making them one of the longest-running providers. Unlike EV-only specialists, Tusker still offers options for petrol, diesel, hybrid, and electric car choices.
What's included in Tusker's salary sacrifice scheme
- Comprehensive fleet management — Fully-managed service including insurance, maintenance, and breakdown cover
- Partner insurance options — Ability to add your partner to the insurance policy
- Multi-fuel vehicle choice — Not limited to EVs, offering traditional fuel types for specific use cases
- Established corporate relationships — Significant National Insurance savings with cost-effective solutions for large businesses
- Employer protection — Comprehensive protection as part of their mature, enterprise-grade offering
Why Tusker is a good Electric Car Scheme alternative
Proven track record with large enterprises
Founded in 2000, Tusker has become one of the UK's leading providers of car benefit schemes for businesses, focusing on promoting sustainable and environmentally-friendly transport options.
Their experience managing complex corporate fleets gives large organisations confidence in their ability to scale and maintain service quality across thousands of employees.
Flexibility beyond EVs
For businesses not ready to commit fully to electric-only fleets, Tusker's hybrid and traditional fuel options provide transition pathways while still accessing salary sacrifice tax benefits.
This flexibility suits industries where EV infrastructure or range anxiety remains a concern for certain roles.
Considerations
Tusker's established position means they may not offer the cutting-edge digital tools or transparent broker pricing that newer, EV-specialist providers have built from the ground up.
Their multi-fuel focus, while valuable for some, means they may lack the deep EV expertise and EV-specific partnerships that specialist providers can offer.
[Compare Tusker alternatives to find the best EV-focused option.]
6. SalSac — cost-neutral simplicity
SalSac focuses on providing a cost-neutral salary sacrifice scheme with no setup fees, appealing to businesses wanting an uncomplicated approach.
What's included in SalSac's salary sacrifice scheme
- No setup fees — Zero costs for employers to launch the scheme
- Cost-neutral model — Simple and affordable scheme design
- EV focus — Website concentrates on electric vehicles but can offer salary sacrifice on any vehicle type
- Clear information — Site is "full of clearly explained information about how salary sacrifice works, even including an example payslip"
- Cost comparison tools — Shows savings on petrol costs and electricity costs for each car over a three-year period
Why SalSac is a good Electric Car Scheme alternative
Educational approach
SalSac includes example payslips showing exactly how net pay will look if you take up a vehicle, which "really helps people considering salary sacrifice for the first time".
This transparent, educational approach builds employee confidence and can improve scheme uptake rates.
No-frills value
SalSac's streamlined approach means less administrative complexity and faster decision-making for businesses that don't need extensive white-glove service.
Considerations
SalSac has "limited eligibility", which may exclude some potential participants. Details on their early termination protection, dealer network size, and whether they offer used EVs are less prominently featured than larger competitors.
For businesses seeking comprehensive risk protection from Day 1 or access to the widest vehicle choice, more established providers may offer greater security and flexibility.
How to choose your Electric Car Scheme alternative
Selecting the right provider requires aligning scheme features with your specific business priorities:
Match your business priorities
- For maximum risk protection: Choose providers offering comprehensive Day 1 coverage, not just standard early termination clauses
- For minimal admin: Look for automated payroll integration, employer portals, and dedicated onboarding support
- For cost control: Verify true cost neutrality with disclosed fees that never exceed NIC savings
- For inclusivity: Prioritise providers offering both new and used EVs, making schemes accessible across salary bands
Consider employee uptake potential
Employees can save between 30-60% compared to personal leasing through salary sacrifice. However, uptake depends on vehicle choice, pricing transparency, and how easily employees understand the scheme.
Providers with calculator tools, example payslips, and clear savings demonstrations generate higher adoption rates. loveelectric's web app provides personalised quotes with all salary sacrifice calculations done automatically, removing complexity barriers.
Evaluate service transparency
Question providers on:
- Fee structure: Is commission disclosed? Are fees genuinely covered by NIC savings?
- Vehicle pricing: Are you getting genuine market rates or inflated costs covering "free" add-ons?
- Delivery timelines: What are realistic lead times for new vs used vehicles?
- Protection details: What's covered from Day 1? What only applies after waiting periods?
For most UK businesses, loveelectric ticks every box — transparent B Corp pricing, comprehensive Zero Risk Guarantee from Day 1, access to both new and used EVs, and genuinely cost-neutral administration. Their digital-first platform minimises your admin while their 7-day setup gets schemes running fast.
Ready to explore the best salary sacrifice car scheme options? Compare features and find your ideal fit.
Choosing loveelectric
If you're looking for a salary sacrifice provider that combines affordability, transparency, and genuine risk-free operation, loveelectric delivers on every front.
Zero Risk Guarantee from Day 1
loveelectric's new Zero Risk Guarantee offers businesses total peace of mind from the outset, with total protection covering resignation, redundancy, dismissal, and non-accidental death. No waiting periods. No unexpected bills. Complete security.
Cost-neutral for employers
loveelectric's administration fee equals the employer's NIC savings achieved when employees take out leases, guaranteeing your business never pays out of pocket to run the scheme.
Widest vehicle choice
Access every EV on the market through 300+ dealers and multiple leasing partners, plus quality-assured used EVs through reloved®. This means employees earning from £27,000 upward can find an affordable EV that fits their budget.
Lightning-fast setup
Schemes can be completed within 7 days, with magic-link onboarding, automated payroll reports, and a dedicated employer portal handling all administration automatically.
B Corp sustainability
loveelectric's B Corp certification with a 102.0 impact score demonstrates verified commitment to social and environmental responsibility, perfect for businesses with genuine sustainability goals.
Get started today
Ready to offer your employees an EV benefit that delivers genuine value while protecting your business?
- Check eligibility: Use the eligibility checker to confirm your business qualifies
- Request information: Complete the employer enquiry form to speak with a Salary Sacrifice Expert
- Learn more: Visit the employee information page to understand how the scheme benefits your staff
- Refer your company: Employees can refer their company to suggest launching loveelectric's scheme
Browse available vehicles in the car selector to see the full range of EVs your employees can access.
Electric Car Scheme alternative FAQs
Who are the main alternatives to the Electric Car Scheme?
The leading alternatives to the Electric Car Scheme include loveelectric, Octopus EV, Tusker and SalSac. Each offers different approaches to EV salary sacrifice.
loveelectric stands out as the only provider offering both new and used EVs through their reloved® marketplace, making electric driving accessible to employees earning from £27,000. They hold B Corp certification with an impact score of 102.0, demonstrating verified sustainability credentials.
Octopus EV integrates energy solutions with charging perks. Tusker brings 25 years of fleet management experience.
The right alternative depends on your priorities—whether that's risk protection, vehicle choice, sustainability credentials, or administrative simplicity.
Is loveelectric better than the Electric Car Scheme?
loveelectric offers several key advantages over the Electric Car Scheme that may make it the better choice for your business:
Used EV access: loveelectric's reloved® marketplace provides quality-assured used electric vehicles alongside new models, dramatically lowering the monthly cost barrier. This makes EVs accessible to more employees across your organisation.
Zero Risk Guarantee from Day 1: loveelectric provides total protection for businesses from Day 1, covering all employment changes including resignation, redundancy, dismissal, and non-accidental death.
Transparent broker pricing: loveelectric discloses their commission and keeps things simple with one monthly price for everything. As a broker working with 300+ dealers, they can offer genuine market comparison rather than single-funder pricing.
Lower pricing and lower salary threshold: loveelectric’s pricing model makes EV salary sacrifice available to employees earning just £27,000, increasing inclusivity and scheme uptake.
Both are excellent providers with B Corp certification and strong reputations. Your choice depends on whether you prioritise used EV access, transparent broker pricing and the Day 1 risk protection from loveelectric or a different combination of features.
What's the cheapest salary sacrifice provider?
Provider costs vary based on the specific vehicle, lease term, and mileage allowance rather than provider fees alone. However, pricing models differ significantly:
Broker vs leasing company models: loveelectric, as an independent broker, gets access to the lowest priced deals by partnering with specialist salary sacrifice leasing companies. This multi-funder approach often delivers lower monthly costs than single-supplier providers - such as Octopus.
Used vs new EVs: loveelectric's reloved® marketplace lists carefully selected, quality-assured used electric cars available at much lower monthly price points, making them effectively the cheapest option for employees seeking affordability.
Hidden costs to watch: Some providers inflate lease prices to cover "free" chargers or extras. loveelectric discloses commission and provides transparent pricing with one monthly fee covering everything.
Employees typically save between 30-60% compared to personal leasing through salary sacrifice regardless of provider. The cheapest option for your business combines competitive base pricing, genuine market comparison, and access to both new and used vehicles.
Use online calculators from multiple providers to compare identical vehicles on the same terms for accurate pricing comparison.
How long does it take to switch from the Electric Car Scheme to another provider?
Switching providers involves ending current leases and launching a new scheme, which follows two different timelines:
For current lease vehicles: Employees need to complete their existing lease terms unless early termination protection allows breaking the contract. Early termination fees vary by provider and individual circumstances. Most schemes allow transfers when employment ends or under specific conditions.
For launching a new scheme: loveelectric can launch new schemes within 7 days, depending on how quickly financing partners approve your application. Octopus EV advertises you could be driving within two weeks of approval.
The fastest switching approach:
- Launch your new scheme with your chosen alternative provider (7-14 days)
- New employees immediately access the new scheme
- Existing lease holders transition as their current leases naturally expire
For employees urgently needing to switch, check whether your current provider's early termination protection covers changing schemes, though this is rare. Most businesses run both schemes in parallel during transition periods, letting leases naturally expire rather than incurring early termination costs.
Planning ahead and launching your alternative provider before current leases expire ensures zero disruption to your employee benefit offering.
Do all providers include insurance and servicing?
Most EV salary sacrifice providers include comprehensive packages covering insurance, servicing, and maintenance, but specific inclusions vary:
Standard inclusions across most providers:
- Maintenance and servicing
- MOT tests
- Tyre replacement
- Breakdown cover and roadside assistance
- Road tax
Insurance variations:
Some providers like loveelectric include comprehensive insurance as standard, with the option to add up to 2 additional drivers at checkout. Tusker offers car insurance as standard with the option to add your partner.
Additional extras:
Octopus EV offers a free home charger installation or 4,000 free miles via Electroverse. loveelectric partners with industry leaders - such as Hypervolt - to bring massive savings on fully installed home chargers as an optional extra.
What's typically NOT included:
- Charging costs (though some providers offer discounted energy tariffs)
- Parking and congestion charges
- Speeding fines and parking tickets
- Damage beyond normal wear and tear
Always review the specific package details with your chosen provider. loveelectric includes everything in one monthly payment with clear breakdowns provided before you commit, eliminating surprises.
For employers evaluating schemes, verify exactly what's included as standard versus optional add-ons that may increase monthly costs.
Is EV salary sacrifice worth it for your business? Explore the full benefits and tax implications.
Note: This article was last updated November 2025. Provider offerings, pricing, and terms may change. Always verify current details directly with providers before making decisions.
