Feature
Living with a used electric car
Are used electric cars worth buying? Here’s how much they cost, how far they can travel, and what it’s like to live with the cheapest used EV on Auto Trader.
Words by: Andrew Woodhouse
Last updated on 15 March 2022 | 0 min read
New: watch part five now!
Thinking of buying a pre-loved electric car? Give Rory’s latest video a watch.
He bought a second-hand Nissan Leaf (the cheapest electric car on Auto Trader at the time) and shares what it’s really like to live with a used electric car: from managing battery performance in winter and on motorways, to getting an electric car MOT and all that entails. The latest video also covers the cost of running an electric car while energy prices soar, and the practicalities of charging a used electric car. New to the series? Watch what it’s like to buy and run a used electric car, and see whether a used EV would suit you as your next car or runabout.
He bought a second-hand Nissan Leaf (the cheapest electric car on Auto Trader at the time) and shares what it’s really like to live with a used electric car: from managing battery performance in winter and on motorways, to getting an electric car MOT and all that entails. The latest video also covers the cost of running an electric car while energy prices soar, and the practicalities of charging a used electric car. New to the series? Watch what it’s like to buy and run a used electric car, and see whether a used EV would suit you as your next car or runabout.
Watch part one: Buying the cheapest electric car on Auto Trader
In the first part of a new series, Rory Reid buys the cheapest electric car on Auto Trader – a Nissan Leaf available for under five grand.
With fuel shortages, emission control zones and ever-present environmental concerns, will this be the perfect time to make the jump to electric on the cheap?
With fuel shortages, emission control zones and ever-present environmental concerns, will this be the perfect time to make the jump to electric on the cheap?
Watch part two: Are used electric cars a bad idea?
Rory’s bought the cheapest used electric car on Auto Trader – but does he have buyer’s remorse? Get a full tour of the Nissan Leaf and join Rory on his first drive as he tackles the biggest questions – including whether the battery life of used cars is up to scratch.
Watch part three: What happens when the battery dies?
Rory takes the cheapest Nissan Leaf on Auto Trader for an extended drive to see how far it'll go on its ageing battery pack, and discovers exactly what happens when an electric car runs out of battery!
Find out how eco-mode ekes out a few more miles, how heating and air con can affect mileage, and how the lifespan of new electric cars battery compares to older models. Then, find out what happens when Rory runs the battery to flat – how far will the Nissan Leaf actually go on a single charge?
Find out how eco-mode ekes out a few more miles, how heating and air con can affect mileage, and how the lifespan of new electric cars battery compares to older models. Then, find out what happens when Rory runs the battery to flat – how far will the Nissan Leaf actually go on a single charge?
Watch part four: The real cost of charging an EV
The cost of charging an electric car can vary depending on where and when you charge.
In his latest video, Rory breaks down the maths behind charging an electric car at home and using the public network. How does it compare to a petrol equivalent vehicle? You may be rather surprised. Then, Rory looks at how a new electric car (with improved batteries) compares in terms of cost, battery life and performance. Watch and let us know what you think in the comments. If you’re looking to make the switch and buy electric, Auto Trader will help make finding your next vehicle easier than ever. Compare expert car reviews and recommendations, and get inspired on our official YouTube channel.
In his latest video, Rory breaks down the maths behind charging an electric car at home and using the public network. How does it compare to a petrol equivalent vehicle? You may be rather surprised. Then, Rory looks at how a new electric car (with improved batteries) compares in terms of cost, battery life and performance. Watch and let us know what you think in the comments. If you’re looking to make the switch and buy electric, Auto Trader will help make finding your next vehicle easier than ever. Compare expert car reviews and recommendations, and get inspired on our official YouTube channel.
Ready to make the switch?
Are you in the market for an electric car, or just toying with the idea and want to know more? Here are our top picks to get you started:
• Win a brand-new electric car in Auto Trader’s monthly giveaway. • Common electric car myths busted by Rory Reid. • How to try before you buy, by leasing an electric car. • Our picks of the best electric cars on the market today. • Electric cars in stock and available today.
• Win a brand-new electric car in Auto Trader’s monthly giveaway. • Common electric car myths busted by Rory Reid. • How to try before you buy, by leasing an electric car. • Our picks of the best electric cars on the market today. • Electric cars in stock and available today.