Should You Buy Your Teen Daughter an EV for Her First Car?

As parents navigate the complexities of buying their teenage children their first cars, one question increasingly arises: should they consider an electric vehicle (EV)? A father from Nottingham, named David, is contemplating this decision for his 16-year-old daughter, who is eager to learn to drive in an EV. While David recognizes the environmental benefits and popularity of EVs among her peers, he expresses concerns regarding insurance costs, the inability to drive manual cars, and safety while charging.

David and his wife had previously agreed to purchase their daughter a nearly-new car if she secured a Saturday job to cover insurance and fuel. She has fulfilled her side of the bargain, but David remains hesitant about the potential challenges of learning to drive in an electric vehicle.

To provide a clearer picture, Freda Lewis-Stempel, an expert in electric vehicles, offers insights into the matter, addressing common concerns among parents.

Understanding Insurance Costs for Electric Vehicles

One of the primary concerns for David is the cost of insuring an EV. According to Alicia Hempsted, a car insurance expert at MoneySuperMarket, insurance premiums for electric vehicles are generally higher than for petrol or diesel cars. This is largely due to the higher purchase price and repair costs associated with EVs. Between January 1, 2025, and July 29, 2025, the average annual premium for under-25s was £1,771 for electric vehicles, compared to £1,467 for petrol vehicles.

However, Hempsted notes that the rise in availability of more affordable EV models suited for newly passed drivers, such as the Renault Zoe and Nissan Leaf, is helping to narrow this cost gap.

Freda Lewis-Stempel adds that insuring a used EV, which is likely the case for David’s daughter, is often less expensive than a new one due to depreciation. Including an experienced driver like David’s wife on the policy can also help reduce insurance premiums. It’s crucial, though, to ensure that the main driver is accurately listed to avoid issues with insurance providers.

Learning to Drive: EV vs. Manual

Another issue David raises is whether learning to drive in an EV limits a young driver’s ability to operate a manual car. Geraint Lewis, Head of Training at Red Driver Training, acknowledges this concern but highlights the benefits of learning in an electric vehicle.

Lewis explains that the quiet operation of EVs allows learners to focus better on driving instructions and the road environment. Features like regenerative braking can help students understand braking dynamics with less reliance on the brake pedal. Additionally, many EVs offer settings that make throttle control easier for beginners.

While passing the driving test in an EV means that a driver may not develop manual driving skills, Lewis emphasizes that driving instructors adapt their teaching methods to suit the characteristics of electric vehicles.

Choosing the Right EV for New Drivers

When selecting an EV for a new driver, it is essential to consider affordability and suitability. Erin Baker from Auto Trader recommends several excellent options for learner drivers, including the VW e-Up! and Mini Hatch, as well as the electric versions of popular models like the Vauxhall Corsa. The Hyundai Ioniq is also noted for its spaciousness and efficient battery life, making it an appealing choice for new drivers.

Cost of Charging and Safety Concerns

David is also concerned about the costs and safety of charging an EV. Fortunately, home charging is typically the most economical option. According to Nat Barnes from Ohme, charging at home can be significantly cheaper, especially with smart home energy tariffs. For example, charging a Vauxhall Corsa Electric can cost as little as £3.57 for a full charge, compared to more than £40 for a petrol car over the same distance.

Regarding safety, charging at home is the safest option. For public charging, Lewis-Stempel points out that advancements in charging station security have greatly improved. Facilities like the new InstaVolt Superhub in Winchester feature comprehensive security measures, including 24/7 CCTV, on-site surveillance, and well-lit charging bays, making them safer than many traditional petrol stations.

In summary, while David’s concerns about insurance, driving skills, and charging safety are valid, the evolving landscape of electric vehicles suggests that purchasing an EV for his daughter could be a practical and environmentally friendly choice. As the popularity of EVs continues to grow, both parents and young drivers must adapt to the changing dynamics of automotive technology.