I’m a car expert – here’s the top five used EVs you can buy for less than £15k
ONE of the biggest gripes about switching to an electric car is the hefty price of battery-powered models.
With more low emission zones appearing all over the UK, many motorists are finding that they need a cleaner car like an EV or a hybrid – but the problem is they just can’t afford to make the change from their petrol or diesel motor.
Recent research by carwow, the online platform for buying and selling cars, found that cost is a significant barrier to EV adoption – with 56% of consumers saying that the purchase price of an electric car is too high.
Handily, carwow’s automotive expert and YouTube star Mat Watson has shared his top picks for used EVs you can get your hands on for under £15k right now.
Nissan Leaf – £14,500
One of the original electric cars for the masses, the Nissan Leaf is a smart EV that comes with an impressive safety kit, a comfortable interior and a big, practical boot.
At this price you’ll probably only find the lower-range models, but an official 168 miles between charges should be enough for most.
The interior can feel a bit cheap in places, but a good driving position and good visibility make the Leaf easy to drive in town – the punchy electric motors certainly help here, too.
Vauxhall Corsa-e – £14,979
The electric Vauxhall Corsa has seen a surge in popularity in recent years, and it’s easy to see why.
It’s stylish without being too in-yer-face and offers affordable, unassuming motoring.
It suits electric drive because its diminutive stature makes it ideal for the city where its zero-emission status will appeal most, while a range that could embarrass some bigger EVs – officially over 200 miles – means it can also take you far and wide with little fuss.
It’s not the most exciting car inside and rear seat space is a bit cramped, but if you don’t need the room this is a well-equipped car for the cash.
Volkswagen e-Golf – £14,500
It’s widely known that whatever your motoring needs, the Volkswagen Golf should probably be on your radar, so it’s no surprise it also makes it onto a list of affordable electric cars.
In EV form you get the same excellent build quality and spacious interior you will find in combustion-engined versions, but with the benefit of silent electric motoring.
The boot is a bit smaller than non-EV models and the range isn’t great, but for those doing shorter journeys it’s a good all-rounder.
Hyundai Ioniq – £14,432
The Hyundai Ioniq was the first car to be available with petrol, hybrid and electric versions.
Electric models are particularly well-equipped so you get all the mod cons in a quiet, comfortable car that’s really easy to drive and spacious inside.
Again, its range isn’t fantastic next to newer alternatives, but if you can charge at home it’s less of an issue and the Ioniq proves you’re not limited to small city cars if you want a low-cost EV.
Renault Zoe – £14,995
Another trailblazer for mainstream electric cars, the Renault Zoe is a chic little EV, and because it looks cool, you don’t need to sacrifice style for affordability.
Despite its small stature, it has an impressive range that means long journeys are less daunting – although it’s a bit cramped in the rear seats and the interior feels cheap in places.
Faster 50kW charging wasn’t standard on base models either, so check the specs before buying if this is important to you.