Octopus Electric Vehicles has seen EV leasing enquiries jump 36% since the start of the conflict in the Middle East, suggesting that the rise in petrol and diesel is prompting drivers to rethink their reliance on fossil fuels and consider going electric.

Global oil and gas markets in flux, petrol prices have climbed to £1.48 per litre and diesel to £1.73 per litre – some of the highest levels seen in over a year.

Meanwhile, on Octopus’s Intelligent Octopus Go EV tariff, drivers can save hundreds of pounds a year compared to running a petrol or diesel vehicle due to smart charging at greener, cheaper times.

The surge in EV interest also reflects a broader change in consumer behaviour. Electric vehicles now make up around one in four new car sales in the UK, according to New Automotive data from February.

“Drivers are feeling the pinch every time they fill up their tank,” said Gurjeet Grewal, CEO of Octopus Electric Vehicles. “We’re seeing a real shift – people want certainty over their bills. Leasing an electric car gives drivers a simple, affordable way to break free from unpredictable fuel prices.”

The trend doesn’t stop at cars. Last week, Octopus Electric Vehicles’ sister company Octopus Energy reported a 27% jump in solar enquiries in the early days of the conflict in the Middle East, as homeowners look to take control of their energy bills.