Why business owners and directors in the UK are still enjoying luxury EVs like the Mercedes G Class

Luxury EVs like the Mercedes G Class - What's to enjoy for business owners and directors in the UK

Sometimes the “future” is actually now. When it comes to charging speed and capabilities, the team at BYD seem to have brought tomorrow’s world to the UK in 2026. Back in March 2025, BYD reported that their new Super e-Platform  would be released in China with 1000 high-voltage architecture and circa 600kW DC charging capabilities.

Later in 2026, it was confirmed that the Blade Battery 2.0 and FLASH charging would allow up to 1500kW DC, with stations being rolled out across China. While this was notably impressive, the obvious concern was that BYD would not launch this in the UK, essentially making this a gimmick.

However, in March 2026 BYD, via their UK press release l, the Chinese powerhouse confirmed that the most advanced batteries and fastest EV charging would be opened throughout UK and Europe, as well as the 20,000 in China.

On 9 June 2026, true to their word, the FLASH charging was formally introduced with confirmation that the DENZA Z9 GT will be the flagship vehicle for this technology. At a press conference, the manufacturer showcased their charging technology and the upcoming vehicles, with the Denza adding around 300 miles of range in just 8 minutes.

The 1.5 megawatts charger is the first of its kind in the UK and there are 300 more promised to be installed across the UK before the end of 2026. Not to mention a further 3,000 across towns and cities in Europe. While our partners over at Zap Map (https://www.zapmap.com/) may need to re-classify the definition of Rapid and Ultra-Rapid, the significance of this technology cannot be underestimated.

To think that our network in the UK has progressed from 50kW DC in 2020 to 150kW DC in 2023 and then to 400 / 500kW DC by 2025 is some achievement. To be in 2026 and discussing 1500kW DC is beyond comprehension and the advancements in the electric car sphere are truly astounding. With BYD promising some £2 billion of investment into the charging network along with a supported 50p per kWh charging cost, the ability to offer their customers quick, reliable and cost-effective fuelling solutions could see BYD become a dominant brand in the UK leasing market.

BYD are aiming to bring the FLASH charging to BYD dealerships first, with further charge points to be rolled out across key locations in the UK. However, do remember that the 1500kW DC will only be relevant to those customers looking to lease the Denza Z9 GT, with its Blade Battery 2.0.

Most EVs on sale still average a 200kW DC rapid charging capability. In our essential guide to EVs in the UK  we do note the capability of modern vehicle charging with the Lotus Emeya at 403kW DC, Smart #5 at 400kW DC, the BMW iX3 at 400kW DC and the Porche Cayenne at 390kW DC. While charging at these speeds still means a 10 – 15 minute charging session from 10 – 80 % (which is quick!), having a 1500kW DC option will genuinely bring the charging times of an EV to 5 minutes. The future of vehicle charging is now here in June 2026.

But moving to electric on your next company car, like the luxury G Wagon EV, is not just about convenience and seamless charging. As at 2026 the UK Government and HMRC are still helping business owners and directors enjoy SUV and sports / performance cars which have zero-emissions. So, what are the main tax rules and benefits for a UK limited company?

•  Tax Deductible - The rental your company pays is completely tax deductible against Corporation Tax (Initial rental and monthly rental) – for more polluting vehicles only 85% of the rentals are allowable against tax;
•  Purchase - For a purchase, the Capital Allowances rules allow 100% write-down on the full amount in the first year (this does not apply to an operating lease / contract hire);
•  Charge Points - New electric vehicle charging points for the business qualify for Capital allowances which allow 100% write-down on the full amount in the first year (a charge point can be installed at home or at work);
•  Car Tax - Company car tax for the employee (which a director is) is still favourable due to the 0g/km (zero-emissions). For tax year 2026 / 2027, BiK is 4% for a zero-emission vehicle, which is significantly lower than a petrol or diesel option (which can be as high as 37%). Employee income tax and National Insurance deductions are substantially cheaper;
•  Fuel - Electricity is not considered as fuel and there is no Class 1A NIC charge required from the employer. This means an employee can charge for free at work and not incur corresponding tax exposure. This also means an employee can charge at home or on the public network for free; and 
•  VAT - VAT registered businesses can reclaim up to 50% of the VAT on the finance element of the rental and 100% of the VAT on the maintenance element of the rental.

When you take these into consideration, you quickly understand just why so many successful UK businesses are eagerly enjoying the benefits and pros behind the transition.      
          
In terms of the car shown, Mercedes-Benz G 580 432kW EQ Tech AMG Line Prem+ 116kWh 5dr Auto (Pure Electric Vehicle), this is based on the following configuration:

•  Obsidian Black Metallic Paint
•  Nappa leather - Black
• 20" AMG 10 spoke design alloy wheels aerodynamically optimised painted in high gloss black
•  Night pack - G Class
•  Mode 3 / Type 2 Charging Cable (Public Charging & home wallbox charger – Fast charging)

Key highlights of the vehicle are the offroad cockpit, carefully designed front and rear axle, MBUX user experience, dark tinted heat glass, privacy glass, AMG floor mats, wireless charging, 360 degree camera, active parking assist, MBUX augmented reality, navigation, smartphone integration.

MBUX multimedia system, Burmester sound, electrically adjustable/heated/dimming mirrors, adaptive highbeam assist, 3-zone climate control, stowage space pack, heated front and rear seats, memory function for front seats, keyless go, Guard and 360 vehicle protection.

For July 2026 production, new models will be appearing which you can see in the  Mercedes-Benz  brochure:

•  Professional Line – the new PROFESSIONAL LINE is a purpose-built option with mud flaps, all-terrain tyres and a strong engineered look. This includes 18” alloys, all terrain tyres, electric sunroof, LED high performance lights, Night Package, black mirrors, 4MATIC permanent drive, suspension with passive damping, ambient lighting, Memory Package, electrically adjustable and heated seats, climate control, Burmester 3D sound, dashcam, Guard360, Keyless GO, augmented reality navigation, Parking Package and widescreen cockpit; and
•  AMG Line Premium Plus – the new derivative is very much focused on luxury and specification, with a finesse finish. The specification includes 20” alloys, heated windscreen, running boards, summer tyres, G-ROAR engine sound, G-STEERING, G-TURN and stainless steel door panels.      

How does the G Class Electric perform?

The AWD SUV option will have a 116 kWh usable battery which will offer 0 – 62 times of 4.7 seconds, 112 mph top speeds and 432 kW (or 579hp). Expect a cold weather range of around 210 miles with warmer weather allowing for 270 miles – a combined range of around 245 miles on a full charge. On charging, the 11 kW AC max will allow 12 hour and 30 min 0 – 100% charging times with the 200 kW DC maximum allowing 34 minute 10 – 80% times. This has a fuel equivalent of 85 mpg. A cargo volume of 555L is available with this car. This will have no Bidirectional charging capabilities.

Need more help and advice on your new G580 EV?

Just get in touch with our expert team on 01942 910 001 or by emailing us at [email protected]

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