Buying a Used Car Electric

A few years ago, asking people if they would consider a used car electric was greeted with blank expressions or outright laughter. But now that the market has matured, early adopters are trading in their EVs and the first-generation models are starting to hit the secondhand market.

Inventory in most states decreased through March, but there are still plenty of options available for shoppers. The best used EVs to buy right now include the Kia e-Niro and Hyundai Kona, both of which are affordable, offer plenty of range for most commuters and feature some of the latest technology bells and whistles like app-based preconditioning.

Used Car Electric: Making the Switch

Just like mobile phones and laptops, EV batteries start to degrade over time. Significant temperature swings accelerate this process and repeated charges can also affect battery life. Luckily, EV batteries are covered by warranties that extend beyond bumper-to-bumper coverage and most automakers offer eight-year or 100,000-mile warranty coverage for their EVs. Checking the VIN of a used EV’s battery or speaking with its previous owner can give you an idea of how much the original capacity has degraded.

It can take longer to recharge an EV than a gas-fueled vehicle, especially when using a level 2 charger. So, it’s important to consider whether or not you live in an area with easy access to charging stations if you’re considering a used EV. Thankfully, most manufacturers provide a list of all the charging stations for their vehicles on the infotainment system.