Electric cars have been cruising along Australian roads for a decade now, leading to a growing market for second-hand EVs. If you’re considering making the switch, investing in a preowned EV will be more budget-friendly than a showroom model.

So that you can plan your purchase wisely, these tips will help guide you to making an informed decision when browsing the market for a used electric car.

Check the battery

The health and status of your new EV’s battery is the most important thing to consider. Firstly, research its size and range. Batteries are measured in kWh, and the larger the number, the more energy it can store. If you plan on driving long distances, you may want to consider an EV with a larger battery and longer range. As a reference point, the average EV in 2023 has a range of 480km, according to the Electric Vehicle Council.

Where possible, request a report on the battery’s state of health to ensure it has sufficient capacity and review its charging and discharging history. Over time, EV batteries degrade and lose their ability to hold a full charge, particularly if the previous owner frequently used rapid DC charging stations. Battery degradation can also accelerate if the battery undergoes frequent deep discharges (from 100% to 0%). Ideally, the battery should have been charged and discharged in a balanced manner.

Check if the battery is still under warranty and what the warranty covers. Many EV manufacturers offer separate, 8-year/160,000km warranties for the battery, so understanding the terms and coverage is important.

Find out what charging cable it comes with

Your EV will need a charging cable, so check to see if one will be supplied with the purchase. Older used EVs may have a Type 1 cable, while newer ones may have a Type 2, which is now the Australian standard for all new models. 

Inspect the condition of the cable and ensure its length, pins and charging speeds are compatible with your home plugs and the EV itself.

It’s also worth enquiring if other extra charging accessories will be thrown in, like portable charging adapters that allow you to plug into different outlets or public charging stations when travelling.

Choose your EV carefully and consider its care history

Naturally, the EV you choose should align with your driving needs. Nippy run-arounds like the Nissan LEAF and Mazda MX-30 are great for urban driving, while roomier SUVs such as the Kia Niro and Tesla Model Y are perfect for families. 

Determine your must-have features and priorities. Do you need a long-range EV or is a shorter-range model sufficient? Are specific features like fast charging, advanced driver-assistance systems or a particular brand important to you?

Like any car, check its wear and tear. One of the benefits of EV ownership is longer maintenance periods, however, they do need servicing, so ask about its service history and whether routine maintenance and inspections have been conducted, including any battery-related services recommended by the manufacturer.

If you’re on the lookout for a quality, used EV, ActewAGL’s evFind presents a well-curated selection of sought-after second-hand models as well as brand-new ones. Discover a smarter way to purchase your used electric vehicle, and tap into expert guidance and reliable options for a sustainable future on the road. 

Summary

  • Check the EV’s battery state of health, size and range before buying a used EV.
  • Ensure you know what charging cable the EV comes with, whether it’s in good condition and if it’s compatible with your planned home charging setup.
  • Consider your driving needs and what you prioritise in the electric car, be it range, space or tech features. 
  • Ask about the service history and whether it’s been properly maintained throughout the previous ownership.

Are you considering making the switch to an electric vehicle? ActewAGL can help you effortlessly find, finance and charge your EV. Discover how ActewAGL can support your transition to sustainable driving today. Find out more here.

Sources

https://electricvehiclecouncil.com.au/about-ev/myth-busting/