The RAC has launched a new electric vehicle (EV) leasing service with Hitachi Capital Vehicle Solutions for the consumer market.

Drivers using the new RAC leasing site will be able to access a range of EVs, with featured deals based on in-stock vehicles so customers can have their new car delivered in a few weeks.

The RAC’s leasing deals also come with breakdown cover as standard.

RAC director of EVs Sarah Winward-Kotecha said: “We know from RAC research there’s a growing desire among drivers to go electric but that the high upfront cost tends to be the biggest barrier to take-up, so we’ve teamed up with Hitachi Capital Vehicle Solutions to help people make the switch more easily and more affordably.

“Using the RAC’s manufacturer relationships, combined with Hitachi Capital Vehicle Solutions’ expertise and buying power, we’re able to offer some of the most competitive leasing deals available.

“Some of these are extremely compelling, so much so that a customer can lease a brand-new EV from as little as £227.99 a month. All customers need to do is find the best insurance for them.”

Customers can choose both the length of their leasing agreement and choose how much the initial rental payment is – usually the equivalent of one, three, six or 12 months’ rental payments.

Jon Lawes, managing director at Hitachi Capital Vehicle Solutions, said: “By partnering with the RAC we are confident that more people than ever will realise that getting into an electric car is far easier and more affordable than they might have thought.

“We’ve worked closely with RAC to create a site that allows drivers to find their perfect car easily by browsing a range of competitive offers with flexible initial rental, term and mileage options.”