There are now approximately 1,300,000 fully electric cars in the UK. In 2024 alone, 299,733 new electric vehicles were sold, accounting for an 18.1% market share of all cars on UK roads. This represents significant growth from 2020 when electric vehicles (EVs) comprised just 6.6% of new car sales.

EVs are cost-effective to run, enjoyable to drive and require minimal maintenance due to the lack of an engine. However, one of the main barriers to widespread EV adoption remains their upfront price. Fortunately, the used EV market is thriving, providing an affordable entry point for many drivers. Pre-owned EVs are not only more budget-friendly but also maintain their efficiency and reliability. Additionally, salary sacrifice schemes now include second-hand EVs, making them an even more attractive option.

In this article, we’ll explore the most affordable used electric cars. Why Are EVs So Cheap Now?

The affordability of used EVs is driven by several factors:

Increased Supply: Many electric cars leased three or more years ago are now entering the used car market, significantly boosting supply. These vehicles are often in great condition, with models like the 2019 Tesla offering a range of 300 miles per charge.
Battery Concerns: While battery technology is improving, buyers are cautious about older batteries, worrying about potential long-term costs. A lack of understanding about what to check when purchasing a used EV also contributes to slower demand.
Price Stabilisation: After steep declines in used EV prices starting in 2022, costs are beginning to stabilise. The earlier drop was caused by a surge of used EVs entering the market and limited demand, especially from sectors like company cars and salary sacrifice schemes.

These combined factors create a buyer’s market for cheap used electric cars, making them more accessible than ever before. Since most of a vehicle's value drops in its early years, buying used helps you avoid the steepest depreciation.

The Most Popular Used Electric Cars For 2025

Let’s have a look at the most popular and most affordable electric cars in the market at the moment. All of the data below has been taken from The Electric Car Scheme’s quote tool based on someone earning £70,000 per year with a 36-month lease agreement covering 10,000 miles annually.

Cupra Born

The Cupra Born is a sporty, all-electric hatchback that combines dynamic performance with striking design. Offering a range of up to 366 miles and a 0-62 mph acceleration time as quick as 6.6 seconds (depending on the model you choose), it’s both practical and fun to drive. Powered by a 58/59kWh or 77/79kWh battery, the Born also boasts a high-tech interior with a digital cockpit, supportive bucket seats, and advanced driver-assistance features. Its compact size and sharp handling make it a great choice for urban drivers seeking a stylish and efficient EV that doesn’t compromise performance.

Cupra Born Salary Sacrifice	Costs
Salary sacrifice cost for a new Cupra Born	£369
Net cost for a used Cupra Born	£283
Monthly difference	£86
Price savings over the lease period (new vs used)	£3,096

The table above illustrates the cost of salary sacrificing a car for someone earning £70,000 per year with a 36-month lease agreement covering 10,000 miles annually. A new Cupra Born would cost £369 per month, whereas opting for a used model reduces the monthly payment to £283 - a saving of £86 per month. Throughout the lease, this amounts to a substantial £3,096 in savings.

Nissan Ariya

The Nissan Ariya is a sleek, all-electric SUV that blends futuristic design with practicality and comfort. It offers a range of up to 329 miles and accelerates from 0 to 62 mph in as little as 5.7 seconds, depending on the model. Available with either a 63kWh or 87kWh battery, the Ariya provides a smooth and quiet driving experience, complemented by a spacious, high-tech interior with dual display screens, ProPILOT advanced driver assistance, and optional e-4ORCE all-wheel drive. Ideal for families and commuters alike, the Ariya is a versatile, low-cost EV with a strong focus on innovation and refinement.

Nissan Ariya Salary Sacrifice	Costs
Salary sacrifice cost for a new Nissan Ariya	£418
Net cost for a used Nissan Ariya	£368
Monthly difference	£50
Price savings over the lease period (new vs used)	£1,800

Leasing a new Nissan Ariya through The Electric Car Scheme would cost £418 per month based on the specified lease terms. In comparison, a pre-owned Nissan Ariya costs just £368 per month - a £50 monthly saving. Throughout the lease, this adds up to a total saving of £1,800.

Tesla Model Y

The Tesla Model Y is a versatile and very popular all-electric SUV that combines impressive performance with advanced technology. It offers a range of up to 330 miles and accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in just 3.5 seconds in the Performance model. With a spacious interior, seating for up to seven, and a minimalist design, the Model Y is as practical as it is stylish. Packed with Tesla’s Autopilot, over-the-air updates, and a cutting-edge infotainment system, it’s an excellent choice for those seeking a tech-forward, family-friendly EV with outstanding performance and efficiency. If you want something similar, see the Model Y’s best alternatives.

Tesla Model Y Salary Sacrifice	Costs
Salary sacrifice cost for a new Tesla model Y	£579
Net cost for a used Tesla Model Y	£429
Monthly difference	£150
Price savings over the lease period (new vs used)	£5,400

If you were to choose a used Tesla Model Y, you would save £150 per month and £5,400 throughout the lease period which is a significant saving to be had!

Volvo EX30

The Volvo EX30 is a compact, all-electric SUV that combines Scandinavian design with cutting-edge technology. Designed for urban living, it offers a range of up to 298 miles and accelerates from 0 to 62 mph in as little as 3.6 seconds in the Twin Motor Performance model. Despite its smaller size, the EX30 features a thoughtfully designed interior with sustainable materials, a large central touchscreen powered by Google, and advanced safety systems. Ideal for eco-conscious drivers, the EX30 delivers a premium electric experience in a more accessible and city-friendly package.

Volvo EX30 Salary Sacrifice	Costs
Salary sacrifice cost for a new Volvo EX30	£468
Net cost for a used Volvo EX30	£375
Monthly difference	£93
Price savings over the lease period (new vs used)	£3,348

Leasing a new Volvo EX30 through The Electric Car Scheme would cost approximately £468 per month. Opting for a pre-owned model reduces the monthly cost by £93, bringing it down to £375. Over the lease period, this translates to a total saving of £3,348.

Volvo XC40

It doesn’t come as a surprise that another Volvo is on this list, known for its reliability and safety features, making them a great choice for families. The Volvo XC40 Recharge is a stylish, all-electric compact SUV that blends practicality with premium Scandinavian design. Offering a range of up to 334 miles and accelerating from 0 to 62 mph in 4.9 seconds with the Twin Motor model, it delivers impressive performance for its class. Inside, the XC40 features a spacious, minimalist cabin with sustainable materials, advanced Google-powered infotainment, and Volvo’s signature safety features. Perfect for families and urban explorers, the XC40 Recharge combines versatility, luxury, and cutting-edge technology in an eco-friendly package.

Volvo XC40 Salary Sacrifice	Costs
Salary sacrifice cost for a new Volvo EX30	£512
Net cost for a used Volvo EX30	£316
Monthly difference	£196
Price savings over the lease period (new vs used)	£7,056

By choosing a secondhand XC40, you could save £196 every month, which adds up to £7,056 over the lease period - a substantial amount to save. This makes the XC40 not only a great choice for families due to its reliability and safety features but also a financially smart decision.

How Much Does It Cost To Run An Electric Car?

Once you’re in your EV, whether new or used, the cost of running an electric car is significantly cheaper than that of a petrol or diesel vehicle.

Charging your electric car at home is the most cost-effective option. However, at The Electric Car Scheme, we’ve introduced a market-leading product called The Charge Scheme, which makes EV charging more affordable through salary sacrifice—whether at work, in public, or at home.

Maintenance and servicing for EVs are also cheaper, as electric cars require less upkeep. With fewer moving parts in the EV drivetrain compared to an internal combustion engine, maintenance is simpler and more cost-effective.

If you’re considering switching from a petrol or diesel car to an electric vehicle but have been concerned about the upfront costs, you might find it helpful to hear about Kerri’s experience with her first used EV, an MG ZS. You can read more about her journey and what it’s like to own and drive a used electric car for the first time.

If you’re interested in leasing a pre-owned electric car and want to save 20-50% on the cost, visit our quote tool. Please note that the used cars on our website are subject to availability and may vary depending on when you check.

Last updated 16/12/24