Electric vehicles have come a long way in the last 10 years. According to the experts, they’re better, faster, and more reliable than their petrol or diesel counterparts.
But if you haven’t driven one, it’s hard to take that at face value. Which is exactly why Electric Vehicles UK wanted to put the decision-makers in the driving seat-quite literally.
Yesterday, MPs from across the political spectrum were invited to experience EVs first-hand, driving and riding in everything from nearly new to second-hand models around central London. The goal? To help them understand not just what the future of transport looks like, but what it feels like.
We were invited to film the action and get the raw reactions from the people whose job it is to legislate on our net zero future. And trust us, some of those reactions were gold..
“Ride, Don’t Read”: Why Firsthand Experience Matters
Let’s face it: you can read a thousand reports on EVs, but nothing beats getting behind the wheel (or in this case, into the passenger seat with an expert driver) and feeling the silent surge of electric torque through London’s bustling streets.
That’s exactly what the Westminster EV Ride Along delivered. MPs were picked up right outside Portcullis House in a range of fully electric vehicles and taken on a 45-minute ride through Westminster. Their chauffeurs? Some of the biggest names in the EV world-including former Top Gear host Quentin Willson and Fully Charged Show legends Robert Llewellyn, Jack Scarlett and Imogen Bhogal.
“You can read reports, you can hear soundbites, but nothing beats actually getting in the car,” said Robert Llewellyn. “Especially for the MPs. They’re the ones who shape the future, and they need to experience the tech firsthand.“
My job for the day? Capture those “aha” moments. You know the ones-the instant someone realises the future isn’t just coming… it’s already here.
From Range Anxiety to Range Confidence
One of the biggest hurdles for people considering an EV is range anxiety. But when you’ve got experts explaining infrastructure, charging, battery tech and vehicle affordability from the front seat of a quiet, zero-emission car-those myths start to disappear.
At the stunning Marriott County Hall, the fleet showcase was another eye-opener. From budget-friendly second-hand EVs to premium models, the range of vehicles on display helped hammer home that this transition isn’t just for the wealthy. It’s for everyone.
Quentin Willson echoed the sentiment: “80% of people buy second-hand cars. And you can now get fantastic used EVs for under £10,000. That’s a game-changer.“
Policy Meets Practice
The purpose of the event wasn’t just to wow MPs with cool cars. It was to arm them with the information they need to lead their communities into a cleaner, quieter and more cost-effective future. That means better air quality, reduced urban noise, and yes-fewer carbon emissions. But it also means understanding the real challenges people face, from charging infrastructure to upfront costs.
“The cost of living dominates my inbox,” said Graham Leadbitter. “And for my constituents, tackling energy prices is key to making EVs a viable choice.“
Meanwhile, Dan Caesar of Electric Vehicles UK pointed to the numbers: “Used EVs are about £2,781 cheaper than used combustion engine vehicles. And new EVs can save drivers over £5,850 in running costs over four years.“
Why It Matters-and How You Can Get Involved
We believe events like this are vital. They break down the barriers between decision-makers and real-world technology. They challenge outdated perceptions. And they show just how accessible EVs have become.
As Lord Mott put it, “The second-hand EV market is booming. You don’t have to buy new-and you wouldn’t even know you’re in a battery electric car, it’s so smooth and efficient.“
Because the future’s electric-and it’s already driving past you.
