FIVE USED EVs THAT ARE A GREAT BUY RIGHT NOW!

Written By Suzanne Stougie
With the first wave of EV lease contracts reaching their end dates, and manufacturers introducing new models on the regular, more and more used EVs are up for grabs. This is great news, for many reasons. It opens up the EV market to a wider audience, for one. Even though the prices of used EVs are driven up by an all-round lack of new cars, they’re still a clever option. Second hand EVs cost less, depreciation is lower, and insurance costs are more reasonable, to name but a few advantages. Also, thanks to the Inflation Reduction Act, used EVs are now eligible for federal support. Time to pick yours! Here are some of America’s current secondhand favorites, in no particular order.
Jaguar I-Pace Photographed by Y.Leclercq from Wikimedia Commons
Jaguar I-Pace
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If you’re a sucker for luxury as well as performance, look no further. The I-Pace has won awards for nearly all its features, from safety to design, and is quick off the mark too: 0 to 60 mph in 4.5 seconds. Once you have a Level 2 charging unit installed at home, you’ll be able to charge this baby overnight to a used range of over 200 miles.
Hyundai Kona Photographed by Benespit from Wikimedia Commons
2019 Hyundai Kona
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This all-electric, sub-compact SUV has a brilliant used range of 214 to 386 miles – great if you spend lots of time on the road. The Kona is reliable, practical, and drivers really rate its ‘normal feel’. Good for those who are reluctant to say goodbye to their gas guzzlers.
Chevy Bolt Photographed by Mariordo (Mario Roberto Durán Ortiz) from Wikimedia Commons
2017 Chevrolet Bolt
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A success from the get-go, the Bolt has been gracing America’s roads since its release in 2017. The dinky hatchback has won a bunch of awards, too – like North American Car of the Year 2017. Make sure you buy a vehicle that’s had its battery replaced and you’re sure to enjoy its excellent range and low maintenance for years to come.
VW e-Golf Photographed by M 93 from Wikimedia Commons
2015 VW e-Golf

On the cheaper end of the used EV market’s spectrum, the 2015 VW e-Golf is a cheerful choice for getting around town. With a used range of 40 to 195 miles, quick charging and low maintenance costs, its drivers are generally a happy bunch.
BMW i3 Photographed by Mariordo (Mario Roberto Durán Ortiz) from Wikimedia Commons
BMW i3

A smallish car with a spacious interior, this EV is great for city driving. It’s pretty unusual in its construction: its body contains carbon fibre reinforced plastic and there’s some hemp in there too, bringing its weight down and driving its sustainability up. Some i3’s have had a small tank installed as a range extender.

With dozens more options out there in every price range imaginable, this list is by no means exhaustive. Other brands and models to consider are for instance the Kia Niro, the Hyundai Ioniq and the Nissan LEAF (though, seeing that its motor is prone to heatstroke, perhaps not in California). Keep an eye on the expected driving range (then subtract a little to be on the safe side). Check out the charging times and the battery warranty, and you’re well underway to finding your perfect fit.