If you are looking to buy an electric vehicle (EV) but are not a fan of the high upfront costs, then the used car market can be a good option for you. With growing EV adoption rates, we now see several
pre-owned EV options available in the used car market but first-time buyers can be skeptical initially and for good reason. Here are 5 precautions to take before considering to purchase a pre-owned electric car to ensure a smooth ownership experience.
1. Evaluate Battery Health and Lifespan
The battery is one of the most critical components of an electric vehicle. It is essential to assess the battery's health and remaining lifespan before finalising a purchase. Request a battery diagnostic report of the authorised service centre from the EV seller, it should provide important insights into the battery's current health, capacity and any previous issues it might have faced. Understanding the battery condition can help avoid unexpected replacement costs down the line. However, EV batteries are generally very robust and should not show any sign of degradation after being used for a couple of years.
2. Understand Charging Options and Infrastructure Availability
As a first-time EV buyer, it is important to consider the availability of EV charging stations in your area. While urban cities have a healthy charging infrastructure in today's age, researching your local infrastructure, including home charging setup costs and public fast charging options, is important. Familiarising yourself with easily available charging locations in your area can alleviate charging anxiety and enhance your overall EV experience as a new owner.
3. Assess Vehicle Maintenance History and Condition
Just like any other used vehicle, examining the maintenance history of a used electric car is essential. Request the EV's service records to ensure the vehicle has been properly maintained as per the manufacturer's recommendations. Look for any past repairs or replacements related to the EV's electrical systems or battery. A well-maintained vehicle is likely to provide better performance and longevity, making it a wise investment. With EV maintenance being fairly simple, a well-kept vehicle should have clean and easy-to-understand records about its history.
4. Address Common EV Myths
Potential EV buyers should also be aware of common EV myths that may cloud their judgment. For instance, some people believe that electric vehicles have limited range and are not suitable for long journeys. In reality, the majority of modern electric cars come equipped with sufficient range for daily commutes and longer trips, especially with the growing number of EV fast-charging stations. Moreover, exploring the pre-owned market gives you the option of buying a long-range EV for a lot less money than it would cost new, expanding your options list.
Also Read: How To Calculate Your Electric Car's Per Kilometre Mileage And Range
5. Recognise the Financial Implications of EV Ownership
Electric cars are known to cost significantly less than petrol or diesel cars in terms of running costs. When exploring the pre-owned market, a buyer should compare the long-term running cost difference between an EV and an ICE-powered vehicle. Chances are, you will be able to recover your investment from the EV a lot sooner than the fuel-powered car. Understanding the numbers will allow you to make a more informed decision and reduce the chances of having buyer's remorse after the purchase.
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