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answer any queries you have about our products and services. If you can’t find
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Electric cars are generally more expensive to insure due to their higher purchase prices and specialised parts. Additionally, advanced EV technology and fewer repair networks can contribute to increased premiums. However, it’s worth noting that these costs are offset by lower running costs and government incentives.
EV batteries, including those in Volkswagen and ŠKODA models, are designed to last for many years. For example, with Volkswagen EVs like the ID.3 and ID.4, batteries are expected to retain at least 70% of their capacity for up to eight years or 100,000 miles. With proper care, they can often exceed these expectations, offering longer-term reliability and efficiency.
All fully electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles are exempt from Clean Air Zone and ULEZ charges, as are hybrid vehicles fitted with a Euro 4 (petrol) or Euro 6 (diesel) engine.
Pure-electric cars offer several environmental benefits. Firstly, they help improve air quality by producing zero harmful emissions, such as CO2 and NOx. Secondly, they promote sustainability by using renewable energy sources and reducing dependence on fossil fuels. Thirdly, they contribute to lower noise pollution levels due to their quieter operation.
Yes, electric vehicles (EVs) typically hold their value well due to increasing demand, advancements in technology and incentives promoting their use. For instance, Volkswagen and ŠKODA EVs generally hold their value well compared to many other brands. The Volkswagen e-up!, for instance, performs particularly strongly in terms of depreciation, losing only about 16% of its value over the first 4,970 miles driven. This makes it one of the top performers in terms of EV value retention.
Hybrid batteries in Volkswagen and ŠKODA vehicles typically last between eight to 15 years (or about 100,000 to 150,000 miles), depending on usage and maintenance. Both Volkswagen and ŠKODA offer warranties on their hybrid batteries that cover these periods, ensuring reliability and peace of mind for owners. What’s more, proper maintenance further extends battery life.
Hybrid vehicles are generally cheaper to run than purely petrol or diesel equivalents due to their superior fuel efficiency. Hybrids use an electric motor for initial acceleration and low-speed driving, reducing fuel consumption significantly, especially in urban driving conditions. This results in lower fuel costs over time.
No, plug-in hybrids require external charging and come with a socket and cable for this purpose. However, full or self-charging hybrids charge themselves, a process that occurs through regenerative braking and the internal combustion engine. Regenerative braking converts kinetic energy into electrical energy, which is stored in the battery. The engine also generates electricity to recharge the battery while driving.
There are merits to both options:
While both types of vehicle are equipped with a combustion engine and an electric motor, hybrids are self-charging, and plug-in hybrids require manual charging. Most hybrids can only drive on electric power for very short distances, typically only a mile or two. All plug-in hybrids, however, offer a greater degree of electric range – often around 30-40 miles. While hybrids are typically more fuel efficient than conventional cars, plug-in hybrids are even more so.
The cost of charging an EV depends on factors such as battery size, electricity rates and charging location. In the UK, charging at home using a standard variable tariff can cost around 32p per kWh, making it about £17 to fully charge a 60 kWh battery, providing around 200 miles of range. Some EV-specific tariffs, like Octopus Go, offer cheaper rates, significantly reducing costs.
Public charging is generally more expensive. For instance, using a rapid charger costs about 53p per kWh on average, meaning a similar full charge can cost around £32. Ultra-rapid chargers can be even pricier.
Zapmap is a useful EV resource, providing separate home charging and public charging calculators.
EV chargers are expensive due to their type and power output. Level 2 chargers, common for home use, are pricier than Level 1 chargers because they offer faster speeds and additional features like Wi-Fi. DC fast chargers, used publicly, require advanced technology and significant power, further increasing costs. However, as with all widely adopted technologies, prices are likely to fall due to increased demand and evolving production processes.
In the UK, charging stations typically break down into the following categories:
Charging an electric vehicle (EV) at home requires the installation of a dedicated domestic chargepoint/wallbox for faster and more efficient charging. Once installed, you simply connect your EV to the wallbox via your car’s charging cable. Alternatively, use a standard three-pin plug for slower charging; ensure your home electrical system is suitable – and consider off-peak electricity rates for cost savings.
There are several places you can charge your pure-electric or plug-in hybrid car:
Fast charging is a method of quickly recharging an electric vehicle (EV)’s battery. It uses higher power levels (typically 7 to 22 kW) compared to standard home chargers, allowing a battery to reach around 80% capacity in a few hours. Fast chargers are commonly found at public locations and workplaces.
Rapid charging is a way of swiftly charging an electric vehicle (EV) using high-power chargers, typically 50 kW or more. It facilitates an 80% charge in around 30 to 40 minutes, making it ideal for brief stops on long drives.
The cost of installing an electric car charger at home generally ranges between £800 and £1,200, depending on the type of charger and the complexity of the installation.
Standard 7kW chargers typically cost around £1,000, including installation. More powerful 22kW chargers, which require three-phase power, can be more expensive, starting at £1,200 – and potentially going much higher if significant electrical upgrades are needed.
Also, the cost can vary based on factors such as the distance from your electricity meter, the construction of your home and any additional features like Wi-Fi connectivity or compatibility with solar panels.
Hiring a specialist familiar with EV charger installations can help manage costs and ensure a smooth process.
Yes, you can get a Motability car, such as a Volkswagen or ŠKODA, if you receive the enhanced rate mobility part of the Personal Independence Payment (PIP).
To get a Motability car, you’ll need to be in receipt of one of the following qualifying mobility allowances:
If you receive one of the aforementioned allowances, and it’s valid for at least 12 months, don’t hesitate to contact us to learn about your Motability options.
Yes, the Motability Scheme offers numerous benefits. These include the coverage of essential car ownership costs like insurance, servicing, maintenance and breakdown assistance, ensuring a worry-free experience. Motability’s buying power allows it to negotiate significant discounts on vehicles, making them around 43% cheaper to lease compared to regular market rates.
However, it's important to consider factors like mileage limitations and the requirement for an Advance Payment on some vehicles. If you drive extensively or prefer outright vehicle ownership, these could be seen as drawbacks.
Overall, the scheme provides significant convenience and financial benefits, making it an appealing option for eligible individuals. To learn more or to see if Motability is right for you, please get in touch with us.
The Motability scheme covers up to 20,000 miles per year; for a standard three-year lease, this equates to a total of 60,000 miles. If you exceed this limit, there is an additional charge of 5p per mile.
A Motability car is leased through the Motability Scheme, allowing eligible individuals to exchange their mobility allowance for a new vehicle every three years. The lease covers insurance, maintenance, servicing and breakdown assistance, providing a stress-free motoring experience. Many adaptations that facilitate easier driving and access are available at no extra cost. Ultimately, the scheme simplifies personal transportation for people with disabilities, ensuring they have the use of a reliable and accessible vehicle.
T Motability Scheme does not offer the option to purchase leased vehicles. However, it may be possible to discuss buying options with us, as we might be able to purchase the vehicle from Motability for you. If not, you’ll always have the option to begin a fresh lease and select a brand new Volkswagen or ŠKODA vehicle.
Under certain conditions, yes. If your vehicle has low mileage or numerous adaptations, you might be eligible to extend the lease for up to two more years. You can check your eligibility and apply for an extension through your online Motability account during the last three months of your lease. For further assistance, don’t hesitate to contact us.
In specific scenarios, yes. If your mobility needs have changed, you can contact Motability to discuss your options. If approved, you’ll need to pay an administration fee of up to £250. It's important to note that frequent changes may affect your future eligibility for the scheme.
If you lease a car on Motability, you can name up to three drivers on your insurance, none of whom need to be you. This means that family members, friends or carers can drive your Motability vehicle, but only if they do so for your benefit.
Some restrictions apply. For instance, only one named driver can be under 21.
We’re open 9.00am to 6.00pm Monday to Friday, and 9.00am to 5.00pm every Saturday.
We’re located at Hopper Hill, Road, Eastfield, Scarborough, North Yorkshire (YO11 3YS). We’re just a two-minute drive from the A64/Dunslow Road roundabout.
As well as stocking new and Approved Used Volkswagen and ŠKODA vehicles, we provide new car and business offers, Motability solutions and extensive aftercare services. You can also sell or part exchange your old car with us.
We stock a wide range of 100% electric, plug-in hybrid and hybrid vehicles. For instance, in each category, we have the Volkswagen Golf GTE and the Volkswagen Tiguan eHybrid. We also sell non-franchised pre-owned electrified vehicles.
Buying online with Des Winks is easy. Simply choose your ideal make and model – we have plenty of great options!
Yes, we do. If you’re looking to upgrade your car, use our free, fast and fair online valuation tool for an accurate valuation that’s based on the details you provide. You can then use the value of your vehicle towards a new or used car of your choice.
We’ll require your driver’s license (to confirm your identity) and proof of insurance. If you wish to part-exchange your old car, we’ll also need trade-in documentation (including proof of legal registration and financing details) and all sets of keys pertaining to the vehicle.
Yes. Making an appointment means we’re able to ensure that we devote sufficient time for you to get the most out of your test drive experience.
