How to buy an affordable second hand electric vehicle?

There’s plenty to consider when you’re buying an electric vehicle but the second-hand market is incredibly buoyant and continues to grow at pace. The good news is that buying an EV is now very easy.

Surveys regularly show that 90% of EV drivers have no intention of going back to petrol or diesel.

Used electric car sales almost doubled in 2023 rising 90 percent to 118,973. The great news is that supply is strong so there’s never been a better time to bag a bargain. Some models are available for less than £500.

The supply has increased by 174 percent year on year so whether it’s a Tesla or a Renault Zoe you’re in the market for, it’s worth shopping around to see what suits you because the choices are vast.

How to choose

The AA, like many well known car websites, has a search mechanism on its second-hand car sales website where you can search by electric vehicle and distance from where you live so there’s never been a better time to go and have a look, take a test drive and see what you like. In terms of considerations, make sure you keep in mind your budget and the range you need.

Zap Map who have details of EV charging ports across the country also have a cost calculator where you can see how much you could save over the course of a month or year on your regular journeys so you can see real time savings compared to a petrol or diesel car. Fully Charged and She’s Electric are great EV websites that bring together a fun community to ask questions and test drive cars at their events.

Other ways to drive electric vehicles

There are other options to consider when you’re looking for an EV as it may be that a straightforward purchase isn’t the most viable if you don’t have the money to hand. Subscription clubs and leasing are ways to drive electric without buying the car outright.

Hire purchase agreements are common within the motor industry. If you live in a city and don’t need a car often or don’t have a parking space then car clubs like Zipcar are great for city dwellers.

Pick your model

Next time you come to update your vehicle do your EV homework.

What Car have done a thorough review of the best used EVs available on the market and there are plenty of different price points to choose from.

Whenever I suggest an electric car to people who don’t already drive them, there can be genuine concerns about their sustainability, particularly the battery. The evidence is overwhelming that EVs are better for the environment than a petrol or diesel car though.

My desire to spread the brilliance of EVs isn’t evangelical. I’m not saying to ditch the petrol or diesel car you are driving right now. I’m simply saying the next time you come to update your vehicle, or the next time the lease on it is up for renewal, do your EV homework as you’ll never look back.

Surveys regularly show that 90% of EV drivers have no intention of going back to petrol or diesel.

Further reading

There’s an Electric Vehicle Association which is packed with information and news on EVs. You can book test drives at your local garage to give a few different second-hand models a go.

Like buying any new car, there’s a lot to choose from but take your time, ask around, see what EVs people are driving in your local area and don’t be afraid to ask owners for a trip.

A lot of us are more than happy to chat about why making the change will not only help the planet but help your wallet too.

Disclaimer

The information in this article was correct at the time of writing and is provided for guidance only. Please see the full disclaimer in our terms and conditions.

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