When you're consdering driving your EV to Europe, there are a few things you need to do to ensure you meet the regulations of the countries you are driving through and visiting.
Leased & Salary Sacrifice EVs
If you are planning on driving your vehicle to mainland Europe via the ferry or the channel tunnel, you must contact your finance company/ check your agreement to ensure that this is allowed.
UK motorists taking their vehicle abroad must have the original Vehicle Registration Document - V5 (photocopies are not acceptable).But since the V5 is held by the finance company for leased vehicles, you'll need a ‘Vehicle on Hire Certificate’ (VE103B), which serves as an alternative to the V5.
You must apply for your VE103B at least 14 working days before you travel. It is valid for 12 months from the date of issue. The standard cost of this certificate is usually £15.
It is good practice to ensure you have written permission from them to take the vehicle abroad. This may be in the form of a letter or additional documentation beyond the VE103B.
Charging your EV in Europe
When taking your EV abroad, its important to research the charging network, plan your journey and become familiar with new apps before you go.
Similar to the UK, various companies provide chargers, but the market is more diverse. Chargers accepting contactless debit or credit cards are limited. Charging typically requires log-in using an RFID card, key-fob, or App, some of which need pre-loaded funds.
Chargers are commonly found in places where cars are parked for extended periods like car parks, shopping centers, restaurants, hotels, tourist attractions, and increasingly at conventional fuel stations and motorway service areas.
How to find EV chargers in Europe
European charger apps like Plug Share or Chargemap show charge point locations, connector types, charge speeds, payment methods, and charger status.
These apps also provide an opportunity for users to provide information about their visits such as precise location, nearby facilities, whether there are any issues or faults and to upload photographs.
There are a few additional aspects of taking your EV abroad that you should keep in mind:
- Make sure your driving license (not provisional) is valid and not due for renewal.
- Check if you need an International Driving Permit.
- Attach a GB / UK sticker to your electric vehicle if the number plate does not display a UK identifier (If you’re in Spain, Cyprus or Malta, you must display a UK sticker no matter what is on your number plate.).
- Check if you need to display emission stickers / permits - you may need to buy these a few weeks before you go.
- Confirm with your insurance provider about coverage abroad. Some policies may have limitations or need extra coverage for driving outside the UK.
- Check breakdown assistance coverage for foreign travel.
- Research specific requirements and regulations for each country. Ensure you have mandatory equipment like reflective vests and warning triangles in your vehicle.
- Before your trip, thoroughly inspect your EV to ensure it is roadworthy. Pay close attention to vital components such as tyres, brakes, lights, and fluid levels.
- If you plan to tow your trailer or caravan abroad, check the requirements and regulations of the countries you are driving through and visiting.
- Keep emergency contact details for the finance company, insurance provider, and other relevant parties in case of accidents, breakdowns, or emergencies abroad.
- Take measures to protect your leased vehicle during travel, like using secure parking and anti-theft devices if possible.
For more information about driving abroad, please click here.