The electric car revolution is here—but brand-new prices can sting. In 2025, the used EV market has come of age, offering silent running, instant torque, and ultra-low running costs for a fraction of the price. Here’s how to buy with confidence in the UK & Ireland.
Why buy a used EV? The obvious and the overlooked
- Escape the depreciation cliff: Let the first owner take the biggest hit and get a nearly-new car for a mid-range price.
- Lower purchase price: Capable long-range EVs that launched over £40k now regularly list under £20k.
- Proven tech: Early bugs fixed, software matured—your money buys refinement.
- Everyday perks: Lower “fuel” costs, clean-air zone benefits, and whisper-quiet driving. Charge at home and pay pennies per mile.
Plan smarter: Use the ONEEV app to find reliable charge points, pay seamlessly, and earn lifestyle rewards as you drive.
The elephant in the room: battery health (SOH)
EV batteries do degrade over time—but typically far slower than you think. Battery health is measured as State of Health (SOH). A brand-new car is 100% SOH.
Battery checks for peace of mind
- Full-charge range check: On 100% charge, the predicted range should sit within ~10–15% of the car’s original WLTP/official figure, adjusted for weather. A 150-mile car showing ~95 miles on a mild day warrants caution.
- Ask for an SOH reading: Main dealers can run diagnostics. DIY for some models (e.g., Leaf + OBD2 with LeafSpy). A healthy 3–4-year-old EV is often still >90% SOH.
- Check the battery warranty: Many brands offer 8 years/100,000 miles on the pack, typically down to ~70% SOH. Even 5-year-old cars often have years of coverage left.
Tip: Verify software updates; they can influence range prediction and thermal management.
Your used EV checklist (beyond the battery)
- Charging cables: Ensure you get the 3-pin “granny” cable and a Type 2 cable; replacements can be costly.
- Charging history: Exclusive DC rapid use can accelerate degradation; balanced AC home charging is gentler.
- Service history: Fewer moving parts, but brakes, suspension, coolant, tyres, and software still matter.
- Tyres: EV-specific tyres reduce noise and improve efficiency; check tread and even wear.
Plan your first week
Create a route and charging routine with ONEEV Charge Points.
Earn as you drive
Activate ONEEV Rewards for perks that fit your lifestyle.
Best used EVs by budget
Sub-£10,000 champions (perfect city cars)
- Nissan Leaf (24/30 kWh): Reliable and affordable. Target the 30 kWh for ~100 miles real-world. Watch-out: SOH matters on older packs.
- Renault Zoe: Stylish and practical with strong value. Check: Is the battery owned or on a lease? Owned is typically more desirable.
£10,000–£20,000 sweet spot (brilliant all-rounders)
- BMW i3 (incl. REx): Premium feel and lightweight fun. Note: REx models require periodic engine servicing.
- Hyundai Ioniq Electric (28/38 kWh): Supremely efficient; facelift 38 kWh models deliver reliable ~160+ miles.
- Kia e-Niro / Hyundai Kona Electric (64 kWh): The “go-anywhere” duo: genuine ~250+ miles real-world, now fantastic value.
£20,000+ premium bargains (aspirational yet attainable)
- Tesla Model 3 Standard Range+: Access to Superchargers, minimalist tech, strong performance. Check: Early 2019/20 build alignment and panel fit.
- Jaguar I-PACE: Luxury SUV with sports-car poise. New price was steep; used pricing is compelling.
| Model | Battery | Indicative Range | Why buy | Watch-outs |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nissan Leaf (30 kWh) | 30 kWh | ~100 miles | Low prices, easy to run | SOH varies; CHAdeMO network availability locally |
| Hyundai Ioniq Electric (38 kWh) | 38 kWh | ~160–170 miles | Ultra-efficient, great family car | Check DC charge curve vs your needs |
| Kia e-Niro (64 kWh) | 64 kWh | ~250+ miles | Range + practicality | Spec/trim differences affect value |
| Tesla Model 3 SR+ | ~55 kWh | ~220–250 miles | Supercharger access, OTA updates | Inspect early build quality |
| Jaguar I-PACE | 90 kWh | ~200–230 miles | Luxury + dynamics | Tyres & insurance costs |
Final verdict: make the smart switch
In 2025, buying second-hand is a calculated, financially savvy route into the future of motoring. Focus on battery health, verify warranty cover, and pick the model that fits your life—you’ll save on purchase price and every day thereafter on running costs.
Ready to shortlist? Download ONEEV, plan charging with live data, and unlock lifestyle rewards along the way.
Used EVs: quick FAQs
- Are used EVs worth it in 2025?
- Yes—depreciation has already been absorbed, tech is proven, and running costs remain far lower than petrol/diesel.
- How do I check battery health?
- Ask for an SOH (State of Health) diagnostic; for some models you can use an OBD2 app. Also compare the full-charge range to the original figure, adjusted for weather.
- Is rapid charging bad for the battery?
- Frequent DC rapid-only use can increase wear. Balanced AC home charging is gentler. Occasional rapid sessions are fine for trips.
- Do used EVs still get battery warranty cover?
- Many models carry 8-year/100,000-mile battery warranties (often to ~70% SOH). Check what’s left for the specific car.
- What about road tax and clean-air zones?
- EVs enjoy favourable ownership costs and local clean-air policies can reduce charges. Always check the latest rules for your city.
