Electric vehicles (EVs) are becoming significantly more attractive as an employee benefit, and Leicester City Council’s long-running salary sacrifice car scheme, provided by Tusker, is a strong example of why.
We originally introduced the scheme in 2013 as a cost-saving measure, but it has evolved into a strategic benefit that supports recruitment, retention, sustainability and financial inclusion. More than a decade on, it continues to deliver six-figure annual savings while offering employees access to electric vehicles that might otherwise be unaffordable.
EV salary sacrifice is not just a perk for senior employees but a meaningful benefit for everyday workers with the majority of drivers on the scheme being lower-rate taxpayers. Loyalty levels reinforce this appeal, with more than half of participants returning for a second or third car and many new starters joining the scheme almost immediately.
Electric cars are also increasingly attractive due to sustainability and policy alignment. Leicester City Council has reduced emissions caps, expanded charging infrastructure, and ensured EV drivers are not financially disadvantaged through mileage reimbursement policies. These steps remove practical barriers and make choosing an electric car easier and fairer.
From an organisational perspective, the scheme strengthens the council’s ability to compete with the private sector, where car benefits are more common. It also supports local suppliers and contributes positively to long-term financial planning.
In short, EVs are no longer a niche or aspirational benefit. Through well-designed schemes, these have become accessible, practical and highly valued. They are one of the most attractive employee benefits available today.
Cory Laywood is head of revenues, benefits and transactional finance at Leicester City Council
