As electric vehicle technology improves every day, more fantastic electric cars are coming up for sale on the used-car market - but it’s completely understandable to be unsure about a used electric car, particularly if you are planning to make the switch from ICE to EV for the first time.
Searching for a used car can be stressful enough as is, but when you're searching through unfamiliar models and powertrains, it can prove even more intimidating - but not to worry, there are plenty of online communities and guides to help you find the perfect car for you, and there are also many benefits to buying a used electric car.
Used electric cars offer a lower entry price, often with the same reliability as a newer EV and the same cheaper running costs that make going electric so appealing. To add to the allure, most EVs have a long battery warranty, typically around eight years, meaning that when you buy a used EV, you are likely to inherit a warranty along with it.
Fewer moving parts also means any issues that arise are easier to fix, typically with software rather than a hammer. For even more reassurance, Vertu only lists models with a battery health higher than 80%. Good (80-90%) and Excellent (90-100%) ratings are visible on the vehicle listings for added confidence when making your decision.
What to look for when buying a used electric car? Here are a few pointers to make your search even easier:
Range + Size
Similar to buying a brand new EV, it is essential to check that the size and range of your car suit your daily usage – for those living and working in cities, the range required tends to be far lower than for those living in more suburban and countryside areas, meaning smaller electric hatches such as the Renault 5, Nissan Leaf, Cupra Born and BYD Dolphin Surf make for excellent choices.
For those with a longer commute to work, school and the shops, estates and SUVs are often the best choice, as their longer and wider size accommodates larger EV batteries. Cars such as the estate-sized Geely Ex5, Peugeot 308, Kia EV6, as well as the SUV-sized Jaecoo 5, Hyundai Kona and Volvo EX30 make good use of this.
Battery Health
Following on from range, the biggest concern is often the battery health of a used electric car. As battery technology improves (and it certainly has since the early days of electric cars), the concerns about smartphone-style battery degradation are not as warranted as they once were – however, it is still important to consider a car's battery health when making your choice.
Luckily, Vertu's used EV listings only include models above 80% battery health, so disappointing battery performance is already ruled out from the list of concerns and considerations.
Condition
When buying any car used, checking for bodywork damage, scratched alloys, and mechanical issues is a given – with an EV, it is also important to look out for charging socket damage and the condition of charging cables.
Luckily, buying from a trusted dealer (such as Vertu) ensures that scratches and chips are repaired, alloys are restored, and the vehicle is in good mechanical condition, with a minimum of 6 months or 6,000 miles of use before needing a service or MOT.
Why should I buy a used electric car from Vertu?
Buying from a trusted dealership ensures that the car has passed a quality control check before you’ve even seen it – paintwork, alloys, mechanical components and battery health have already had to pass by trained, experienced mechanics before the car can be listed online or put on display, giving you that extra peace of mind needed when making a big change.
Vertu have a wide range of new and used electric cars for sale, allowing you the time and choice to select something that truly works for you, and that makes driving simple, easy and fun. Compared to buying privately, this breadth of choice also relieves any pressure to make a decision – when combined with expert advice from our dealership colleagues, you can rest easy knowing you’ll have plenty of time to make a fully informed decision.
You can view our Used Electric cars online, or get in touch with your local dealership to see what they have to offer. If you’re torn between new and used, you can also browse our new electric cars here.
- Used Cars
- Electric