Used EVs Surge in Popularity, Offering Bargains for Savvy Buyers
According to data from a leading UK used car sales platform, second-hand electric vehicles (EVs) are flying off the lots, selling 26% faster than their petrol and diesel counterparts. Cinch reported a staggering 311% increase in EV sales on its website and app between July and September 2024 compared to the same period in 2023. This surge in demand presents a fantastic opportunity for anyone looking to reduce their monthly fuel expenses and lower their carbon footprint.
Thanks, in part, to falling battery prices, new electric models are now priced similarly to internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles. Coupled with increased used car stock, this narrowing price gap makes EVs an attractive option. With a wealth of options available, now is a great time to make the switch to electric.
The trend towards electrification is gaining momentum. In the US, while adoption has been slightly slower, a recent report projects a 230% surge in returning lease car volumes in 2026. Kelly Blue Book also acknowledges that EVs represent some of the best deals on the used market.
If you’re considering an EV, now is a great time to find a deal. I’ve highlighted some of the best used electric cars I have personally driven, which represent the cheapest ways to transition to electric motoring. I sourced prices from online platforms like Auto Trader, Cinch, and eBay in the UK, and Edmunds in the US.
1. Tesla Model 3
Despite the rapid increase in EV rivals, Tesla remains the undisputed champion. The Model 3 offers a range of affordable models. Because of its global success and 20 years in the EV game, used car lots have plenty of second-hand bargains. Prices for high-mileage Model 3 examples can dip to around $21,500 in the US. For example, I found a UK model with around 100,000 miles on the clock for just under £13,000. With EV batteries that last longer than expected, these cars still have plenty of range.
2. Jaguar I-Pace
Jaguar was an early EV pioneer with the I-Pace crossover. Designed by the man who penned various Aston Martins, the sleek lines of the I-Pace still look good. Offering around 230 miles of electric range, it competes with new cars entering the market. Immaculate one-owner examples can be purchased in the US for less than $20,000. In the UK, that figure dips to around £13,500, cheaper than most used petrol-engined Vauxhall Corsas. However, some customers have reported battery issues in earlier models.
3. Polestar 2
The Swedish Polestar brand, sister to Volvo, has expanded, but the Polestar 2 offers great value on the used market. Long Range Single Motor models look great, give fantastic performance, and offer a range in excess of 270 miles. The cheapest used models I could find in the US were priced at around $20,000. In the UK, one-owner examples are available for around £17,000.
4. Porsche Taycan
The Taycan proved that EVs didn’t have to be dull, with Porsche aesthetics and scintillating performance. However, one of the biggest downsides of Taycan ownership is its depreciation. Used, high-mileage models can be found for just over £30,000 in the UK, or around $43,000 in the US. This is a tempting price considering these cars cost around £100,000/$100,000 new.
5. Kia e-Niro
While Kia has updated its EV lineup, the e-Niro is still a great option. With its 64kWh battery pack, it can hold its own against modern competition. The e-Niro can still manage around 220 miles on a single charge. Prepared to take on a car with 80,000 miles on it? You can pick up a nice example in the UK for around £12,500, or around $16,000 in the US.
6. Mini Electric
Used Mini Electric models can be tricky. Bargain models found in searches will likely have the 32.6kWh battery pack. These cars can be had for less than £10,000 in the UK, but with a range of around 145 miles. The current generation boasts a 54.2kWh battery. First-generation electric Mini Hardtops are a little more difficult to find in the US, as they just didn’t sell as well. Look around, and you might be able to find one for around $15,000 with about 50,000 miles.
7. Chevrolet Bolt
For North American buyers on a budget, the Chevrolet Bolt EV represents excellent value. Used prices for 2017/2018 models range from around $9,000-$10,000. The Bolt’s estimated electric range is around 240 miles. Earlier models have a relatively cheap interior, which has been improved upon in later iterations. But above all else, the Bolt EV is nippy, affordable, and fun to drive.
8. Volkswagen ID.3
If you can look past the exterior, bargains can be found searching for used ID.3 models. The compact hatchback sports a 58kWh battery. The efficiency of the ID.3 stands out. Pro models have all the features. You can get a very good example in the UK for around £12,000.
9. BMW i4
The i4 injects BMW’s driving dynamics into a modern EV. Great looks and an impressive interior come standard. It’s a true driver’s car. Under £30,000 buys a low mileage model in the UK. Second-hand examples can be found for as little as $26,000 in the US.
