Electric cars for sale with Drive
Electric cars are now a common sight on UK roads – and with good reason. As drivers become more aware of environmental concerns and long-term running costs, more people are making the switch to EVs (electric vehicles). The latest electric cars are faster, quieter and more high-tech than ever, with rapid charging, impressive real-world range, and cracking performance.
Whether you’re looking for a compact electric hatchback, a family-friendly SUV, or even a performance EV, the used market has plenty to offer – including some of the cheapest electric cars in the UK.
Why buy a used electric car?
Many buyers choose EVs for their low environmental impact. Once built, electric vehicles produce zero tailpipe emissions, and the electricity used to charge them can increasingly come from renewable sources. That means fewer polluting emissions in your community – plus, they're much quieter, reducing urban noise pollution.
But the benefits of electric cars aren’t just environmental. Running costs are significantly lower, especially if you can charge at home, where electricity is often much cheaper than petrol or diesel. You’ll also benefit from reduced maintenance, as EVs have far fewer moving parts compared to traditional internal combustion engines – no oil changes, no exhaust systems, and far fewer things to wear out.
Driving an electric carcan also be more fun. They offer instant torque, which means you can have rapid acceleration with no lag while you wait for revs to built, and the lack of engine noise makes for a smooth, relaxing drive. With the ability to charge overnight, you can start each day with a full battery, which is especially convenient during colder months.
And thanks to improvements in battery technology, many used electric cars now offer more than 200 miles of real-world range, making them suitable for more than just short commutes. If you're looking to cut even more costs, it’s also worth exploring the cheapest electric cars to insure, helping to keep your overall motoring expenses low.
What are the best makes and models of electric cars?
There’s now a huge choice of electric cars on the market, and the quality continues to improve each year. At the premium end of the spectrum, Tesla remains a leader, thanks to its cutting-edge tech, excellent range and fast-charging Supercharger network. The Model 3 and Model Y are popular choices on the used market and offer great performance with impressive practicality.
That said, Tesla is far from your only option. The Kia EV6 and Hyundai Ioniq 5 are two of the most critically acclaimed electric cars in recent years. They combine bold styling, strong range (up to 328 miles), and innovative interiors, making them superb all-rounders for families and long-distance drivers alike. The Skoda Enyaq iV is another excellent alternative, offering lots of space, a refined driving experience, and good value on the used market.
If you’re looking for a bargain, the Renault Zoe is one of the most affordable used EVs around. While its range is more modest, it’s perfect for city driving or short commutes. The Nissan Leaf also remains a strong option, with newer models offering a decent range and more tech than you might expect. For those after a more dynamic experience, the BMW i4 is fun to drive and surprisingly efficient, while the Porsche Taycan shows that electric cars can deliver real performance thrills.
How much does it cost to charge an electric car?
Charging costs for electric cars vary depending on how and where you charge. In general, however, they’re far cheaper than refuelling a petrol or diesel vehicle.
Charging at home is typically the most affordable option. As of April 2025, the average UK electricity tariff is just over 27p per kWh. So, to charge something like the Skoda Enyaq iV 60, which has a 62kWh battery, it would cost about £16.75 for a full charge from empty. In reality, you’re unlikely to charge from 0%, and it’s better for battery health to stop at around 80% – so your typical cost would be closer to £13.40.
Public charging is more expensive but offers the benefit of speed and convenience. Rapid chargers, found at service stations and charging hubs, can cost anywhere from 55p to 90p per kWh. Charging the Enyaq from 10% to 80% at a fast charger could cost around £25–£40, depending on the provider.
Despite the variability, most EV owners still save significantly compared to traditional fuels – especially if they’re able to rely on off-peak home charging tariffs. Many providers now have specific tariffs targetting EV owners giving them cheaper rates for charging their cars, although it's worth looking at your overall electricity usage to see if these are suitable for you.
How long does it take to charge an electric car?
Charging time depends on the power source and the vehicle’s charging capabilities. Using a standard three-pin socket, charging a family-sized EV can take over 24 hours, which is generally not that practical for daily use. This method, known as “slow charging”, is therefore best kept as a last resort.
Installing a dedicated home wallbox charger is the best option for regular charging. A 7kW charger will top up most EVs overnight, with typical charge times ranging from 6 to 12 hours, depending on the battery size. Some homes with three-phase electricity may be able to install 22kW chargers, which can halve charging times – but not all properties are compatible, and not every EV can accept 22kW charging.
Rapid chargers, which are typically found at motorway services or EV hubs, deliver power at 50kW to 150kW, allowing many electric cars to reach 80% charge in under an hour. Ultra-rapid chargers can deliver up to 350kW, reducing that time to as little as 20–30 minutes – though only a handful of models can take full advantage of these speeds.
Ultimately, the fastest charging speed is limited by your car, so it’s worth checking your EV’s specs if charging time is a top priority.
What should I look for when buying a used electric car?
When considering a used EV, the most important thing is to think about how it will fit your lifestyle. Will the range meets your daily needs? Will you be charging at home, at work, or on the public network? If you have convenient access to a home charger, electric car ownership becomes far more practical and cost-effective.
Drivers who mainly do short trips may find that a smaller electric car with limited range is more than enough – and significantly cheaper to buy. On the other hand, if you need space for the family or travel long distances, larger electric SUVs with bigger batteries will be a better fit.
Heavier EVs can put more strain on tyres and suspension, so inspect these components carefully, especially on older vehicles. It’s also worth looking for models with adjustable regenerative braking, which can help you drive more efficiently and reduce brake wear.
Another key factor is battery warranty. Most EV manufacturers offer longer coverage for the battery than the rest of the car – often 8 years or 100,000 miles, whichever comes first. Make sure the battery is still under warranty, or has been tested and certified if out of coverage.
If you're not sure if a used electric car is quite right for you, we've got 1000s of used cars for sale to suit all budgets and needs.
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