London to Brighton for £2!

The fifth annual London to Brighton Electric Vehicle Rally rolled out from Westminster this morning, as more than sixty quiet yet determined electric vehicles - ranging from sleek city cars to robust SUVs - set off on the scenic 60-mile journey to Brighton Beach. Two Teslas pulled in first.

Launched in 2021 as a grassroots initiative to inspire confidence in EVs, the rally has grown exponentially - beginning with just 23 participants at its inception, climbing to over 120 competitors and drawing an estimated 35,000 spectators this year. Today, the first to arrive was a grey Tesla, closely followed by a father and son in a second grey Tesla - competition number 37. The driver of the second Tesla told the MC that the trip had only cost him £2 on ‘fuel’.

According to the promoters: ‘Whether you’re a participant or a visitor, Madeira Drive in Brighton is the place to be on rally day. With over 35,000 expected visitors, it transforms into a hub of electric vehicle innovation and entertainment. At the centre of it all is our EVillage, featuring partners like BYD and Hankook Tyres. Here, attendees can test drive a wide variety of electric vehicles with zero obligation, engage with manufacturers, and learn about the latest advancements in electric mobility.’ Tonight, an award ceremony is due to take place at the Brighton i360 - a celebration of the year’s most efficient vehicles.

The organisers are keen to demonstrate the advance of EVs. In 2021, they made up only 11.6% of new car registrations. In 2025, that figure has passed 27%, and the government predicts it could hit 50% by 2028. Charging infrastructure has improved too, with over 60,000 public charge points available across the UK - up from just 9,000 in 2018. Ultra-rapid chargers are appearing on motorways, in supermarkets, and even in remote villages - see more at Fully Charged Show.