Today’s best electric used cars
Why choose an electric occasion?
These days, buying a used electric car is more attractive than ever. New electric cars are quite expensive, but an electric used car is a smart way to still drive electric without paying the new price. This is because the depreciation of electric cars is relatively fast, which has significantly reduced the price difference between EVs and gasoline models in the used car market.
Not everyone is looking for the same thing
Every potential buyer of an electric used car has his or her own needs and priorities. Some want the largest possible range, while others are mainly looking for a compact city car.
Many people are still wary of the limited range of an EV, but it has improved greatly in younger models. Older EVs sometimes get no further than 120 kilometers, but in recent models range of 300 to 400 kilometers is already quite normal. But there is still room for improvement!
Charging the battery can also be a barrier: do you need to have a charging station installed at home for that? If you have your own driveway or parking space, then a home charging station is ideal. Otherwise, it is important to look at the charging infrastructure in your area for public charging. For that, you may need to download apps and apply for a charging pass.
Why younger electric cars tend to be smarter
Technology in electric cars has advanced by leaps and bounds in recent years. Battery packs have become more reliable, charging times shorter and software more sophisticated. As a result, it makes sense to choose a younger EV purchase, say three years old, rather than a cheap, older model with limited range and outdated charging technology.
The ten best electric used cars today
1. Hyundai Kona Electric (from 2018).
The Kona Electric, Kia’s compact crossover, has been one of the best-selling EVs in the Netherlands for years. The version with 64 kWh battery gets up to 450 kilometers in real-world driving. Reliable technology, modern infotainment and good warranty conditions make this one of the safest choices. Used car price range: from 19,000 euros.
2. Tesla Model 3 (as of 2019).
The Tesla Model 3, Europe’s most popular electric car is now widely available as a used car. The Model 3 excels in performance, range and over-the-air software updates. The Long Range version gets as far as 580 kilometers. Price level occasions: from 24,000 euros.
3. Renault Zoe (from 2017 with 41 kWh battery).
The Renault Zoe is small, agile and ideal for city driving. The later versions with 41 or 52 kWh batteries are especially attractive, with a range of up to 350 kilometers in practice. Do note whether you buy the occasion with or without battery rental. Price level occasions: from 9,500 euros.
4. Kia e-Niro (from 2019)
The Kia e-Niro is a spacious EV with a range of up to 455 kilometers (64 kWh version). Suitable as a family car and leased by many business drivers, so there is a wide supply on the used market. Used car price range: from 21,000 euros.
5. BMW i3 (from 2017)
The i3 is a unique EV with carbon fiber bodywork, smooth handling and striking design. The versions starting in 2017 have 33 or 42 kWh battery packs, making them more suitable for longer trips than the earlier models. Price level used cars: from 13,000 euros.
6. Peugeot e-208 (from 2020).
The Peugeot-e-208, a compact hatchback, combines style with modern technology. The 50 kWh battery is good for about 300 kilometers of range. The interior looks modern and the finish is fine for its class. Used car price range: from 17,500 euros.
7. Volkswagen ID.3 (from 2020)
The ID.3 is the electric brother of the Golf. With battery packs of 45, 58 and 77 kWh, there are versions with varying range (up to about 550 kilometers). Comfortable, spacious and solid. Price level used cars: from 20,000 euros.
8. Opel Corsa-e (from 2020)
The Corsa-e is a brother to the Peugeot e-208 has the same technology but a more traditional look. The range is similar (300 kilometers). The Corsa-e is slightly more affordable and is frequently offered ‘ex-lease’. Price level used cars: from 16,500 euros.
9. Skoda Enyaq iV (from 2021).
This spacious SUV from Skoda offers great value for money. The 60 or 80 kWh battery provides between 390 and 535 kilometers of range. The
10. MG ZS EV (from 2020).
This Chinese EV offers plenty of space and equipment at a competitive price. Especially interesting are the models from 2022 with improved range (up to 440 kilometers). Affordable, but not as refined as European brands. Price level used cars: from 18,000 euros.
What should you pay attention to when buying an electric used car?
1. State of the battery
The battery is the most expensive part of an EV. When in doubt, get a battery diagnosis. That will show how much percent capacity the battery has left compared to new.
2. Charging port and charging speed.
Check that the charging port is undamaged and that the car can still charge at normal speed. Some older models charge slowly, while newer models support fast charging up to more than 200 kW.
3. Brakes and tires
Electric cars are heavier than comparable gasoline models. This demands more from tires and brakes. So always check the wear and tear. Also pay attention to whether regenerative braking is working properly.
4. Software and infotainment
Modern EVs get regular updates. Check to see if the car is still receiving updates or if the system is outdated. Infotainment and navigation are important in electric driving because they often show charging information.
5. Research your needs in advance
Determine what you need. Do you drive a lot of long distances or mostly shorter trips? Do you have your own charging station or do you rely on public charging? And how much luggage space do you need? Once you have answered these questions, you can search more specifically for the right EV used car.
EV used car market matures
The electric used car market is maturing. There is more and more choice, prices have come down and technology has greatly improved. Whether you are looking for a compact city car or a spacious SUV for the family, there is a suitable electric used car for almost every buyer.