Here is a look into their value today.
You might have heard the buzz about electric vehicles (EVs) being the future of transport. From Tesla’s sleek models to the more affordable Nissan Leaf, EVs are becoming a common sight on UK roads. But what about buying one second-hand electric car? Are used EVs good value for money today, or is it better to hold out for a new model? In this article, we will explore everything you need to know about purchasing a used electric vehicle in the UK, whether you’re on a budget, have an EV car to sell or just curious about this rapidly changing and evolving market.
The rise in popularity of EVs means that more second-hand options are now entering the market, with varying ages, battery health levels, and price points.
The market for electric vehicles has expanded dramatically in the UK over the last decade.
The Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT), states that new EV registrations in 2022 surged to over 300,000 units, representing nearly 20% of all new car sales in the country. This is a rapid growth on previous years and reflects government incentives that are available, increasing environmental awareness of drivers, and rapid advances in battery technology that have extended driving range plus the improved charging infrastructure being installed throughout the UK. This has been helped by the dropping of planning permission need to install home or commercial charging stations.
Yet, despite this boom, buying new EVs remains expensive for many. This is where used electric vehicles become interesting—offering a chance to get on the electric car ladder at a lower cost.
Used EVs are generally reliable, cost-effective, and a smart choice for young drivers but saying that there are a few things we should we avoid. So lets look at the benefits and challenges of buying used EVs in the UK today, show you what you need to know before making that first purchase into the EV world of cars showing you some examples to help you decide if a used electric vehicle is truly good good for you and great value for money, or not..
Benefits of Used Electric Vehicles
First, the most obvious advantage of buying a used EV is the lower initial cost compared to new models. A new electric car is going to cost you anywhere from £30,000 upwards, depending on which make, model, and battery size you choose. For example, a new Nissan Leaf starts around £28,000, while premium models like the Tesla Model 3 can be well above £40,000 and could limit you to only having repairs done in a Tesla garage. On the other hand, used electric vehicles, especially those several years old, are available at much lower prices—sometimes 30% to 50% less. This price drop reflects normal depreciation but also the rapid pace of EV technology improvements.
Purchasing a used EV lets you avoid the steep initial depreciation that new cars face. According to data from the website Auto Trader UK (autotrader.co.uk), electric cars lose value at a similar level to petrol vehicles, but the steepest decline happens within the first three years after purchase.
After this period, used EV prices tend to stabilise, making them a sensible option for cost-conscious buyers.
A key benefit for EV cost savings is the potential for lower running costs, plus electric vehicles are mechanically simpler than petrol or diesel cars, with fewer moving parts, so this usually means lower maintenance costs. for example you will not need oil changes, fuel filters, or spark plugs, plus braking systems often last longer due to regenerative braking technology. The UK government’s Office for Zero Emission Vehicles (OZEV) estimates that EV owners spend 40% less on servicing than petrol or diesel vehicle owners.
On the operational side, electricity is significantly cheaper than petrol or diesel on a per-mile basis. With UK average electricity costs around 15p per kWh and EVs typically consuming about 15-20 kWh per 100 miles, the cost per mile can be as low as 2-3p. In contrast, petrol costs roughly 15p-20p per mile. Over several years, these savings can amount to hundreds or thousands of pounds.
There’s also the environmental angle. Driving a used EV helps reduce carbon emissions compared to internal combustion engines, even accounting for battery manufacturing emissions. By choosing a second-hand EV, you contribute to extending the vehicle’s life and avoiding the environmental impact of producing a new car. The UK government emphasises this as part of its Net Zero strategy, encouraging EV adoption to cut emissions from transport, which accounts for roughly 27% of the nation’s carbon output.
In summary, used EVs offer significant financial and environmental benefits: lower purchase price, reduced running costs, and a smaller carbon footprint. But, as you will see next, buying a used EV isn’t without challenges, especially related to battery health and evolving technology.
Factors to Consider When Purchasing a Used Electric Vehicle
Before you rush out to buy that affordable used EV, it’s crucial to understand the key factors that impact its value and usability. First and foremost is the battery condition and remaining lifespan.
Batteries are the heart of any electric vehicle. Over time, lithium-ion batteries degrade, meaning their capacity to hold charge diminishes. This directly affects the driving range. For example, an older Nissan Leaf from 2014 might have had an official range of 100 miles, but after eight years, the battery could lose 20-30% of its capacity, reducing real-world range to around 70-80 miles. While this might be sufficient for city driving, it’s something to consider based on your travel needs.
Battery health varies widely depending on usage, charging habits, and climate. Importantly, many manufacturers offer battery warranties covering at least 8 years or 100,000 miles, so check if the used EV you’re considering is still under warranty or if a replacement battery has been installed. Battery replacements can be costly—typically £5,000 to £8,000—though prices are gradually falling with advances in technology.
Next, warranty coverage and available service history matter. Reliable service records help confirm the vehicle has been maintained properly and that the battery has been regularly checked. Warranties on used EVs vary; some dealerships offer certified pre-owned EVs with extended coverage, which can give peace of mind.
Another point is technology and features compared to newer models. EV technology has advanced fast in recent years. Used models from just 3-5 years ago might lack newer safety features, infotainment systems, and improved battery management found in the latest releases. For example, early EVs rarely had fast charging capabilities beyond 50kW, while current models can charge at 150kW or more, dramatically reducing charging times.
You should also consider connectivity and software updates. Tesla, for example, supports over-the-air updates that keep vehicles current, but many older EVs don’t have this feature, potentially making their software and navigation outdated.
When assessing a used EV, it’s important to weigh these factors against your budget and needs. A less expensive EV with a reduced range might work well for short urban commutes, while someone requiring longer trips might want a newer model with better battery life and tech.
Challenges of Purchasing a Used Electric Vehicle
Despite the many benefits, buying a used EV comes with several challenges that you need to be aware of. The first is limited selection and availability. The used EV market is still relatively small compared to traditional petrol and diesel cars, meaning fewer options and potentially higher prices for popular models.
A report by the RAC in 2023 highlighted that only about 5% of used cars on UK platforms were electric vehicles. Popular models like the Nissan Leaf and Renault Zoe dominate this segment, while other brands like Hyundai, Kia, and Tesla have fewer used options available due to their more recent market entry.
Potential buyers also face the problem of outdated technology and features. As mentioned, earlier EVs often have lower ranges, slower charging, and lack modern safety systems such as advanced driver assistance (ADAS). For instance, a 2016 Leaf might not have autonomous emergency braking or lane assist, features now standard in many new vehicles. This can affect comfort, convenience, and long-term resale value.
Perhaps the biggest uncertainty surrounds battery degradation and replacement costs. Battery condition can be hard to assess without specialised diagnostics, and sellers may not always disclose full battery history. Some owners experience rapid battery decline due to frequent fast charging or extreme temperatures. Replacing a battery can cost thousands, impacting overall cost-effectiveness.
Another challenge is the limited infrastructure for used EV buyers who may not have access to home charging facilities. While public charge points are expanding, some regions still lack reliable fast charging options, which may limit the practicality of owning an older EV with lower range.
These challenges mean that buying a used EV requires careful research and consideration. Rushing into a purchase without fully understanding these risks can lead to disappointment or unexpected expenses.
Case Studies and Examples of Successful Purchases
To give you a clearer picture, let’s look at some real-world examples and case studies from UK EV owners who have successfully purchased used electric vehicles and saved money.
Take Sarah, a 28-year-old living in Manchester, who bought a 2017 Nissan Leaf for £11,000 in 2022. She was initially concerned about battery life but chose a model with an 8-year battery warranty still active. Sarah uses the car primarily for city commuting and weekend trips, averaging about 7,000 miles per year. She estimates saving around £1,000 annually compared to her old petrol car on fuel and servicing.
Similarly, a 35-year-old from Bristol purchased a 2018 Renault Zoe for £12,500. Although it has a lower range than newer EVs, it fits his needs perfectly and allowed him to access London’s Ultra Low Emission Zone without charge, an added financial benefit.
From a cost perspective, used EVs often compare favourably with new petrol cars when considering total cost of ownership (TCO). According to data from the UK’s Energy Saving Trust, electric cars have lower fuel and maintenance costs, offsetting higher purchase prices over several years. Used EVs accelerate this advantage by reducing the upfront purchase cost while retaining those operational savings.
In terms of maintenance, owners report fewer visits to garages and no surprises related to engine issues. The most significant maintenance costs come from tyres, brakes, and occasional battery health checks.
So, are used electric vehicles good value for money today?
This answer depends on your individual circumstances but leans towards yes—provided you do your homework.
Used EVs offer a lower entry price into electric motoring, reduced running costs, and environmental benefits that align with UK government targets. However, challenges such as limited selection, potential battery degradation, and outdated technology remain.
By carefully considering battery condition, warranty coverage, and your driving needs, you can find a used EV that provides excellent value and enjoyment. As EV technology continues to improve and the used market expands, buying second-hand will become an increasingly viable and smart choice.
If you are seriously considering a used electric vehicle, be sure to research specific models, request detailed battery reports, and check for dealer certifications. Additionally, look out for evolving government incentives for low-emission vehicles that can make your purchase even more affordable.
Ultimately, the used EV market is still maturing but already offers genuine opportunities for cost-effective, environmentally friendly motoring in the UK.
References
• Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT), EV registration data 2022. https://www.smmt.co.uk/2023/01/ev-registrations-2022/
• Auto Trader UK used EV depreciation trends. https://www.autotrader.co.uk/car-news/industry-news/ev-depreciation
• Office for Zero Emission Vehicles (OZEV) servicing cost estimates. https://www.gov.uk/government/organisations/office-for-zero-emission-vehicles
• RAC report on used EV market share, 2023.
