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Thinking about making the switch to electric but unsure where to start? Buying a used electric vehicle (EV) is a smart and affordable way to experience the benefits of electric driving. From lower running costs to reduced emissions, EVs are becoming increasingly popular across the UK.
Our buying guide will walk you through everything you need to know before buying your first used EV. Whether you’re curious about battery health, charging options or warranties, our checklist will help you feel confident and informed as you explore your options.
When considering a used electric car, it’s important to weigh both the benefits and potential drawbacks. Used EVs can offer great value and accessibility, but there are a few factors to keep in mind to ensure you make the right choice. Here’s a quick look at the main pros and cons to help guide your decision.
Buying a used EV generally means a significantly lower upfront price compared to new models, making electric driving more affordable.
Used EVs are often in stock and ready for immediate delivery, so you don’t have to wait weeks or months for a factory build.
Many used EVs have a solid track record for reliability and performance, with plenty of owner feedback available to help you choose.
Over time, an EV’s battery will lose some of its original capacity, so it’s important to check the battery condition before purchasing.
Some used EVs might no longer be covered by the full manufacturer warranty, particularly for the battery, which could impact the cost of any future repairs.
Older EVs may not support the fastest charging technologies available today, meaning longer charge times compared to newer models.
Think about your typical mileage and the kind of journeys you make - commuting, school runs, or longer weekend trips. Range matters: shorter daily drives may not need a long-range EV, while regular motorway use might require a larger battery.
For help comparing models, our Electrification page includes useful info on range, efficiency, charging times, and performance. For example, the Volvo EX30 Single Motor offers a combined range of around 209 miles, while the Twin Motor version extends that to 279 miles. If you need more distance, the new Volvo EX90 Twin Motor Performance delivers up to 375 miles combined (motorway and city).
Buying a used EV is a smart choice - but only if you're buying from someone you trust. At HSF Group Volvo, we’re proud to offer expert advice, full transparency, and quality you can count on. With an average 4.7/5 review score across our dealerships (July 2025), we’ve built our reputation on trust, knowledge, and great service. Every used EV from HSF Group Volvo includes a full vehicle history check, available battery health insights, and a warranty, giving you complete peace of mind.
Set a clear budget that covers both the upfront cost and everyday expenses, like charging, servicing, insurance and road tax. While EVs are typically cheaper to run than petrol or diesel cars, planning ahead ensures you get the most value from your new car.
You can use the Volvo EV Cost Calculator to compare running costs between electric and petrol models based on your annual mileage. It’s a quick way to explore potential savings and the long-term financial benefits of going fully electric.
Ready to view a used electric vehicle for the first time? It’s an exciting step, but knowing what to look out for can make all the difference. This quick checklist is designed to help first-time EV buyers cover the essentials, ask the right questions and feel confident when making a decision.
Don’t skip the test drive. It’s your best chance to experience how the car feels on the road. EVs drive differently from petrol or diesel cars: they’re quieter, smoother, and often quicker to accelerate. Pay attention to how it handles, brakes, and rides. Try out key features like regenerative braking, infotainment, and parking aids. Make sure it feels natural and comfortable for your everyday journeys.
Ask to see a full service record and MOT history. If the car is under 3 years old, it won’t have had its first MOT yet, but you should still check that it’s been regularly serviced and well looked after. A well-maintained EV should have had regular check-ups, even though they don’t need oil changes, components like brakes, suspension, and software still require attention. Some EVs will also come with battery health reports, don’t hesitate to ask.
The battery is the heart of an electric vehicle, so it’s important to know what warranty is still in place. Batteries often have longer cover than the rest of the car (sometimes up to 8 years), so find out what’s included. At HSF Group Volvo, every used EV includes warranty protection and available battery health insights, giving you added reassurance and confidence in your purchase.
Make sure the EV is compatible with your home or local charging setup. Most electric vehicles in the UK use a Type 2 connector for regular charging and CCS for rapid charging, but it’s still worth confirming. Ask if the vehicle comes with charging cables, ideally both a 3-pin plug for emergencies and a Type 2 cable for public or home wall box use. Missing cables can be costly to replace.
Some early electric vehicles were sold with the battery on a separate lease, meaning the owner paid a monthly fee for the battery instead of owning it outright. If you're looking at an older EV, it’s important to check whether the battery is leased or owned, as it can affect ongoing costs and resale value.
However, for newer EVs, this is no longer a concern. The vast majority now come with the battery fully owned as standard. At HSF Group Volvo, you won’t need to worry about this. None of our used EVs are sold with leased batteries.
While this guide gives you a helpful starting point, our support doesn’t end here. The team at HSF Group Volvo is here to answer your questions, guide you through your options, and help you find the right used EV with complete confidence. Get in touch with your nearest retailer.
Browse Our Volvo Approved Used Electric Cars In Stock
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