Drivers switching to charging their electric vehicles at home are discovering an unexpected bonus: not going to the petrol station means fewer sugary snacks, energy drinks and impulse buys. By charging at home, EV owners are not only saving emissions and money, but they’re also avoiding the temptation of extra calories and unnecessary spending that comes with every pit stop.

According to a new insight from British EV charger brand Simpson & Partners, the weekly visit to a petrol station often includes picking up a chocolate bar, drink or snack while filling up or the much loved meal deal. The average forecourt food and drink haul costs on average £5.00 – £260.00 a year, not to mention thousands of hidden calories.

A typical petrol station meal deal, comprising a chicken and bacon sandwich, smoothie and a chocolate bar totals 801 calories.

Mandy Simpson, co-founder of Simpson & Partners, said: “There’s so much talk in the media about weight loss drugs, how sugar isn’t healthy and how diabetes is on the rise. The hidden side benefit for EV drivers who home charge is that you don’t need to go to the petrol station and expose yourself to the temptations on the snack aisle. It’s like a passive benefit no one talks about.”

As the UK’s adoption of electric vehicles grows, many drivers are choosing to install a home charger for maximum convenience. Not only does it mean lower running costs with smart at-home tariffs allowing drivers to charge during off-peak hours, but it also delivers a quieter, calmer routine that fits seamlessly around daily life.

Beyond the health benefits of avoiding forecourt snacks, charging at home is significantly cheaper than public charging. The cost of public rapid charging can be up to three times higher than plugging in at home on an off-peak rate.

“Once you experience the convenience of home charging, it’s hard to imagine going back,” added Simpson. “You can top up your car while you sleep, it’s energy-efficient, timesaving and much less disruptive to your day, and turns out it’s kinder to your waistband too!.”