The time has come to trade in your combustion-powered car for a used electric vehicle (EV). But where should you start? Who should you speak to, and what should you be looking for? When buying a used EV, there are several crucial factors to consider to ensure you get the best value for your investment. While alloy wheels and panoramic roofs are nice-to-have features, the real focus should be on key aspects that determine the longevity and practicality of your used electric vehicle.

1. Familiarise yourself with battery health and range!

The condition of the battery pack is crucial when buying a used EV. More and more approved used electric vehicle dealers will carry out battery health checks, which indicates its remaining capacity compared to its original capacity. Most three to four-year-old batteries will be perfectly fine but it does come down to the way the vehicle was charged. Home overnight charging is easy on the battery compared to daily rapid charging on motorways etc. Again this should show in the health check. Also, consider the vehicle's range on a full charge as this will determine its practicality for your daily driving needs.

2. Should you be concerned about the maintenance history?

Of course! As you would when buying any used vehicle, request the maintenance records of the EV to ensure that it has been properly serviced and maintained. Pay attention to any past issues related to the battery, drivetrain, or other critical components. Yes, there are fewer moving parts and the service intervals are usually further apart, but it's essential to stay on top of routine maintenance and ensure the software updates have been carried out. Most small software updates are carried out wirelessly on board but from time to time, larger more significant updates need dealer intervention. Be sure to ask the question!

3. What is your local charging infrastructure like?

You should assess the availability of charging infrastructure in your area and consider the EV's charging capabilities. Most EVs on the Irish market support fast charging and have a compatible charging port for your home charging setup. Can you take a charge at work? Does the supermarket you frequent have a charger? All these little factors will help you make an informed decision.

4. Be sure to check what warranty coverage is left.

Check if the EV is still under warranty, as this can provide peace of mind and potentially cover any unexpected repairs or replacements. Be aware of the warranty coverage for the battery pack, as it typically has a separate warranty from the rest of the vehicle. Often approved used dealers will offer a fresh or separate two-year warranty depending on the age of the vehicle. At the least, expect three months from a reputable garage.

5. Should you get a vehicle history report?

Again for extra peace of mind, a vehicle history report can check for any past accidents, damages, or if the vehicle was imported, etc. These reports can be obtained through various online providers and can reveal valuable information about the vehicle's previous ownership and usage.

6. Does the driving experience and features meet your needs?

Take the EV for a test drive to assess its performance, handling, and overall driving experience. Pay attention to features such as regenerative braking, driving modes, infotainment system, and advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS). Some electronic driver-aids are quite intrusive. Can you live with driving this vehicle every day? Does it offer enough space and comfort?

7. Will my used EV depreciate much?

A difficult one this, but a regular question here at Nevo. It can be hard to research the residual value and depreciation rate of the EV model you're interested in. Some EVs may depreciate faster than others because of technology advances, new cheaper models from the same brand, or new entrants into the market. At the time of writing, there appears to be stability once again with all the major brands reporting residuals comparative to combustion-powered vehicles of a similar age. Like any car though, the trick is to look after the vehicle in accordance with the manufacturer’s guidelines to maximise value retention.

8. Should manufacturer reputation be a considering factor?

It possibly should be a considering factor but maybe not the deciding factor. Naturally, the reputation of the EV manufacturer and their commitment to electric mobility is important but with so many new brands entering the EV market space, you need to look at the bigger picture. Your folks might swear by German or Japanese vehicles only, but now it's worth looking for brands with a track record of producing reliable EVs and providing excellent customer support and service. Some new entrants to the Irish market are making electric vehicles and batteries in other countries for far longer than you think!

By carefully evaluating these essential features and factors, you can make an informed decision when buying a used electric vehicle that meets your needs and offers great value for your investment. At Nevo, we’re always here to help you navigate the world of EV ownership with confidence. Don’t hesitate to reach out if you have any questions.