EV owners targeted by thieves could find themselves paying up to £700 for a replacement charger.

Currently, there are around 400,000 electric cars and 750,000 hybrid vehicles on the road. Plus, after 2030, all new cars will be powered by electricity.

This increase in electric vehicles will make thefts more likely. The costs could overtake the current £10 million a year to replace catalytic converters, another favourite for thieves.

Many scrap and recycling businesses are also seeing increased questions regarding electric car chargers – most often, how much they would pay for one. The scrap value for materials in a cable may be worth around £50. Plus, second-hand chargers are being sold for around £200.

Mike Thompson, Chief Operating Officer at Leasing Options, said: “While there are no official figures on electric car charger thefts, it is a growing crime. So much so that the Association of British Insurers has said insurance premiums could rise.

“Unfortunately, it is relatively straightforward for thieves to take charging cables, especially while they’re on charge. Software experts have also highlighted that some EV chargers had cyber security flaws, which meant they could be accessed remotely to unlock charge points.

“Clearly, this isn’t great news for electric car owners. However, there are some extra steps EV owners can take to protect their electric car charger from being targeted. Including removing the charger from your car at night, installing a dash camera and using a padlock.”

1. Charge your vehicle at home

While it’s not always possible to charge up at home, this is a great way to minimise thefts. In addition, installing an electric charge point on your property provides extra security from prying eyes. Opt for a charger in a garage or away from street view if you can. This will give you more security and peace of mind.

2. Use a padlock

Padlocks are one of the best ways to deter thieves, and they can be used on cables. In addition, many electric vehicles have a loop to secure your lock in place while it’s charging.  In some cases, and depending on the wheels you have, you can loop the cable through the wheel and place the padlock on the cable.

3. Use a secure box in your boot

While some cables are stolen from boots when not in use, that’s not to say you shouldn’t use them. Instead, opt for a secure box to store your cable when not in use to make it harder for opportunists.

4. Remove the charger from the boot overnight

The boot is the easiest place to store your charger. However, it’s also the most obvious and the first place thieves will look. So, instead of leaving it in your car overnight, remove it and store it securely inside until you need it again. It might be a little inconvenient, but it’ll save the cost of an expensive replacement.

5. Install a dash camera

Dash cameras aren’t just great for extra reassurance on the road – they can be a great deterrent for unwanted attention while you’re parked up. Opt for cameras that work while the car is off and charging, so it films any nearby contact with your vehicle. While it might not stop someone from stealing the cable, you might get a good look at the perpetrator, which is helpful for the police.

6. CCTV at home

Electric car charger thefts happen while people are out and about and at home. So, install CCTV near the charging area for extra peace of mind. This can help identify unwanted guests but may also deter them from taking your charger.