Used EVs Surge in Popularity: Why More UK Drivers Are Buying Electric Second-Hand

UK's Used EV Market Accelerates: Tesla Model 3 Tops the Charts Amidst Record Growth

The used Electric Vehicle market is booming, according to car platform Cinch. The online retailer says that EV sales were 39% higher in Q1 2025 than in the same period in 2024.

Used electric vehicles (EVs) were once niche, but they are now much more mainstream. Increasing demand, falling prices, and more models available are changing how we think about second-hand motoring.

The Tesla Model 3 is leading the charge, becoming the most popular used EV in the country. UK used EV market surges

But it's not alone.

Brands like MG, Nissan and even new players like BYD and Ora are reshaping the electric used car landscape in ways we didn't predict a few years ago.

So, what's behind the used EV boom? And why are so many people buying used EVs?

Used EV Sales 2025

The data reported by Cinch is reflected in industry-wide figures. The Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) reported a record 58.5% rise in used battery electric vehicle (BEV) sales (Q1 2025), with over 65,000 units sold.

That's 3.3% of all used car sales, a small but growing segment.

In the past, the most used EVs were early Nissan Leafs or Renault Zoes. These are great cars, but their short range on a full battery charge would concern many car buyers.

Now, the choice has expanded dramatically. With more models entering the second-hand market and newer electric vehicles offering longer ranges and faster charging, buyers finally see options that meet their needs and budgets.

Why Are Used EV Sales Growing So Fast?

A few key things are driving the growth of the used EV sector:

1. More Stock

As new EV registrations have grown over the past five years, many early adopters are now trading in or upgrading their cars. This has created a flood of used EV stock that didn't exist before.

Also, tax advantages for business users saw many EVs taken on business leases. These EVs are being returned and then entering the used car market.

Popular models like the Tesla Model 3, Kia e-Niro, Hyundai Kona Electric, and MG ZS EV are now appearing in large numbers on the used market.

2. Lower Prices

Prices for used EVs have dropped significantly over the past 12-18 months. Some models have seen price drops of over 20% compared to 2022. This has made electric cars more accessible to mainstream buyers. A 3-year-old Model 3 or Kia e-Niro can now cost the same or less than a similar petrol or diesel SUV.

With rising fuel prices and more cities introducing low-emission zones, many drivers are doing the maths, and finding an electric car now makes more sense, mainly when bought used.

3. Public Perception

Battery life was the biggest concern for used EV buyers, but real-world data is starting to allay those fears. Most EV batteries degrade slowly, often losing 1-2% annually. Many used models still have over 90% of their original range after 5 years.

Warranties are helping, too. Some manufacturers offer 8-year battery warranties, and platforms like Cinch or Cazoo often include their own cover. This added reassurance is removing one of the biggest barriers to buying second-hand EVs.

4. Environmental and Tax Benefits

Drivers looking to reduce their carbon footprint are turning to electric cars. Used EVs allow buyers to lower their impact without committing to the higher upfront cost of a new car.

There are financial benefits, too. EVs are exempt from road tax (until 2025), and buyers in cities like London don't pay congestion or ULEZ charges. Even used EVs get these perks, making them an excellent option for city drivers.

The Tesla Effect

The Tesla Model 3 is at the top of the used EV leaderboard. Its sleek design, long range, and Supercharger access make it the 'go-to' choice for many who want to get into electric motoring.

Residual values have held up well, which is reassuring for buyers. Tesla's direct-to-consumer model means that even older cars get regular software updates and remote diagnostics, which few rivals offer.

Another advantage is charging. Tesla's extensive and reliable Supercharger network makes long distance driving much easier especially for first time EV buyers who may be wary of public charging infrastructure.

Chinese Brands On The Rise

While Tesla may be the headline grabber, Chinese brands are also starting to make their mark in the used EV market. Cinch has seen growing interest in brands like BYD, Omoda and Ora.

These companies offer well spec'd long range electric cars at lower prices than many European rivals. The BYD Dolphin is a compact hatchback with premium touches, and the Ora Funky Cat has retro styling and solid tech features. As more of these cars hit British roads through lease returns or part-exchanges expect their used market presence will grow.

Who's Buying?

The audience for used EVs is also changing. While early adopters were tech-savvy, eco-conscious urban drivers, today's buyers are more diverse.

Younger drivers are attracted to low running costs and a smooth driving experience.
Families choose used EVs as great value, second cars for school runs or local errands.
Business users buy ex-fleet electric vehicles at a discount, often with plenty of warranty life.

This broader appeal is helping to grow the market and bring used EVs into the mainstream.

What To Consider?

Despite the positives, buying a used EV still requires some thought:

Battery Health: Always ask for a battery health report or check the state of charge and range.
Charging Compatibility: Make sure the car can use the type of chargers available near you. Some early EVs use CHAdeMO instead of CCS connectors.
Warranty Coverage: Check if the battery or motor is still under the manufacturer's warranty.
Service History: Like any used car, look for a full history and avoid cars with missing documents or skipped services.

The Future

With petrol and diesel car sales ending in 2035, used EVs will play a big part in the UK's transition to cleaner mobility. As more cars become available, prices fall, and public awareness grows, the used electric market will only get bigger and more influential.

For buyers, now could be the sweet spot. Prices are competitive, stock is strong, and many models still have incentives and extended warranties. Whether you want to lower your fuel bills, reduce emissions or try something new, a used electric car might be your next smart move.

Sources:

Cinch : Used EV market booming

SMMT : Used car market report Q1 2025 UK