Electric vehicles now account for 52% of business enquiries, Leasing.com reveals

Electric vehicles (EVs) now account for 52% of business leasing enquiries, according to data from Leasing.com, highlighting a growing interest in sustainability and cost saving.

The most in-demand business vehicle was the Lotus Eletre, which topped leasing charts ahead of models from Tesla, BMW, and Polestar.

While businesses have traditionally relied on diesel or hybrid models, EVs are becoming a preferred choice due to sustainability goals, cost efficiencies, and regulatory changes.

Mike Fazal, CEO at Leasing.com, said: “The rise in business EV enquiries reflects a broader shift driven by cost efficiency, sustainability goals, and regulatory changes. With more cities introducing low-emission zones, businesses are proactively switching to electric fleets to avoid charges and future-proof their operations.

“Government incentives and lower Benefit-in-Kind tax rates are making EVs more attractive, but businesses are also seeing the long-term savings in running costs and maintenance. As technology improves and charging networks expand, we expect even more businesses to accelerate their shift to electric – ensuring they stay ahead of regulations while boosting their sustainability credentials.”

SUVs continued to dominate the business leasing market, making up 60% of all enquiries, which Leasing.com attributed to their practicality, storage capacity, and versatility.

Popular models such as the BMW iX and Tesla Model Y remain top choices for executives and sales professionals. Businesses looking for a balance of style and efficiency continue to favour the Nissan Qashqai and Volkswagen Tiguan, both of which provide a combination of comfort, practicality, and strong brand reputation.

The transition to electric vehicles is also evident in the commercial sector, with courier and trade businesses increasingly opting for electric vans. The Volkswagen ID. Buzz and Renault Kangoo emerged as popular choices due to their efficiency and adaptability for urban deliveries. The Nissan Townstar was also in high demand, offering a practical balance between cargo space, compact design, and electric powertrain options.