Experience the flexibility of car subscriptions

Ever wondered if a car subscription might be a smart move for your wallet? With the auto industry shifting gears, it's time to dive deep into the world of car subscriptions. This comprehensive guide will cast light on the advantages, pitfalls, and economic realities of using a car subscription service in the UK.

You'll find insightful answers here whether you're a budget-savvy motorist, an electric car enthusiast, or someone looking for an easier way to have a car. Buckle up, and let's hit the road!

What do car subscription services entail?

Imagine a world where you switch cars like you swap phones or you pay a monthly subscription like you would for Spotify or Netflix. That's the central idea of a car subscription service. 

But what are the disadvantages? Well, one key downside is the cost. Often, these subscriptions can be pricier than traditional car ownership or leasing, mainly because of their flexibility and convenience.

So, is subscribing to a car a good idea? It depends. If you value variety and flexibility over cost, it's worth considering. This choice lets you drive a diverse range of cars without long-term commitment or hefty upfront costs.

Specifically, let's look at an all-inclusive car subscription. As the term implies, these comprehensive services cover all your car needs for a simple monthly fee. They include everything from insurance to maintenance to tax.

Lastly, how does this compare to owning a car? Well, some say the auto revolution is here. No more hassles of ownership, just smooth driving. Subscribing to cars can be a bit expensive, yes, but it gives you a chance to experience the best of the motor world without getting bogged down by ownership duties.

Now, let's explore this further. Vehicle subscription in the UK is gaining momentum, with more providers entering the market, making it an exciting time to consider this cutting-edge service.

One monthly payment to rule them all

Cost is a key concern when exploring car subscription options. "Cheap car subscription" might seem like an oxymoron, given that these services can appear pricey. But why are car subscriptions so costly? Primarily, it’s because they bundle together lots of expenses into one convenient package.

With a car subscription, your monthly payment includes the following:

• The cost of hiring the car.
• Fully comprehensive car insurance.
• Road tax.
• Breakdown cover (24/7 roadside assistance).
• Servicing (including when things go wrong or the car is due an annual service).
• Monthly mileage allowance.
• Normal wear and tear of the vehicle.

As you can see from the above, there's little to think about regarding maintenance, so subscriptions make car ownership easy!

Not only are these subscriptions more accessible, but they also often include car subscriptions with insurance. This factor alone can ease the financial burden and risk of car ownership, especially when many British drivers complain about the unexpected increase in their annual premium.

Kind-hearted budget lovers fear not! Affordable subscription services are indeed possible. Some of the cheapest cars start from just under £300 a month, and you can commit to as little as just a month. Want to know the real trick? Shop around! Our website shows the most available car subscription options in the UK, letting you find the right deal for you.

Read our in-depth guide on how mileage works with car subscriptions.

What is the process of subscribing to a car? 

Subscribing to a car is straightforward. Here are the usual steps:

1. Choose a provider: Research various electric car subscription services to find one that suits your needs and budget. Consider factors like the range of vehicles offered and other fees (e.g. delivery). See this page to compare the best subscription services.
2. Select a vehicle: Once you've chosen a provider, browse their selection of electric cars. Some providers offer many models, from Skodas and Volkswagens to Teslas.
3. Customise your subscription plan: Decide on the length of your subscription (some providers let you commit for longer, saving a little bit of money) and any additional services you want to include, such as more mileage, additional driver or charging cables. 
4. Identity and driver checks: Once you've picked your car, you will be asked to provide more personal information - delivery address, bank account details for the direct debit, driving license number, etc. You may also need to pay a deposit or an initial delivery fee.
5. Receive your electric car: After your subscription is confirmed, the subscription provider will arrange the delivery of your car. Some providers deliver the car directly to your door within just 3 days, while others may require about a week.
6. Swap for another EV: You can change your car as many times as you want during your subscription. Each time, the provider will collect the existing car, carry out an inspection, and then take your details for the new one, one on the same day!
7. Cancelling your subscription: When your subscription term ends, and you want to return the car, the provider will pick it up. Ensure you've read the rules, which usually require cleaning and washing the car ahead of the collection. An inspection will be carried out, and a report will be sent to you.

It's important to keep in mind that subscription processes may differ from provider to provider. 

Our founder has been driving a subscription EV since February 2023 and wrote his thoughts about the process with elmo here.

Driver eligibility and rules

Subscribing to an car is easier than getting one on finance (e.g. PCP, HP). Rules are more relaxed, and because you're not applying for credit, affordability is usually not considered.

When it comes to driver eligibility for car subscriptions, there are a few key factors that providers typically consider:

• Age: Many car subscription services require drivers to be at least 25. However, some may allow younger drivers with an additional fee or specific conditions.
• Driving license: You must hold a valid driving license. Some providers may require that you've held your license for at least 3 years.
• Driving record: Providers will check your driving record for any serious offences or a high number of penalty points, which could affect your eligibility.
• Credit check: Some services may perform a credit check to confirm your identity or assess your financial reliability. This isn't always the case, but if a credit check is required, a good credit score can increase your chances of approval.

You may not be approved if:

• You have more than 6 points on your driving licence.
• You have criminal convictions or have been charged with a criminal offence.
• You have had any major driving convictions in the last 3 years.
• You have been disqualified from driving in the last 5 years.

Again, subscription eligibility may vary between different services, so keep that in mind!

Types of cars available

Whether you're looking for a compact city car, a family-friendly SUV, or a high-performance luxury vehicle, there's likely a car subscription service that has what you need. Here are some examples:

• Compact cars: Ideal for city driving and shorter commutes, compact cars like the Citroen C3 and the Renault Zoe are often available through subscription services. They're known for their manoeuvrability, efficiency, and lower monthly subscription costs.
• Family cars: For those needing more space, family-sized electric cars like the Kia Xceed and the MG 5 estate are great options. These vehicles offer more room for passengers and cargo, making them perfect for family outings or longer trips.
• Luxury cars: If you're looking for a touch of luxury, some subscription services offer high-end electric vehicles like the Tesla Model 3 and the Jaguar I-Pace. These cars combine the environmental benefits of electric power with premium features and performance.
• Sporty cars: Sporty electric vehicles like the Model 3 Performance, Polestar 2 and the Cupra Born are available for those who crave performance. These vehicles offer impressive acceleration and handling.
  

You can use our car search to browse the latest subscription cars!

Subscriptions compared with car buying, renting and leasing.

One of the biggest questions regarding getting your hands on a new car is the cost of owning it and the responsibilities that come with it. Here we have compared the most important aspects of car subscription vs buying:

We have two very in-depth guides on the above topics, so be sure to check them out:

• Car subscription vs buying a car: What's best for you?
  
• Car subscription, leasing or renting: What's best for you?
  

How to pick the right subscription car

Even though most of the usual car expenses are covered by one monthly payment, it's still important to consider all other factors that play a key role in choosing a car.

The first is your budget and how much you can afford to spend on the monthly subscription fee and charging. At least, financial considerations are easier because you know exactly how much you're paying for the car every month, eliminating any unexpected costs (even if the vehicle breaks down, the subscription provider will cover the cost of repairs).

If you're switching to an EV from a diesel or petrol motor, range will be on your mind. Luckily, so many charging stations are dotted around the UK that topping up your battery has never been easier. 

However, if you're expecting many long drives to distant areas, you'll need a car with a longer range and a good plan for charging on the way.

There's a lot to be said about the EV driving experience. You should just read our guide to learn more about what this is like.

Finally, remember to check the subscription terms! Look at the minimum commitment term and what's included in the package. What are the excess mileage fees, delivery and collection costs, and deposits? Can you swap cars or cancel the subscription easily if your needs change?

Car subscription FAQs