Are you looking to buy used electric cars or used electric car? This is the perfect time for such an endeavor!So, understand pros and cons of used electric cars for a better choice. A few years back, when electric vehicles were launched, they were no less than the price of a hidden gem. However, due to a common cause and quick adoption, the government lowered the manufacturing incentives, which was even reflected in the used car industry.
Affordable electric cars or EVs significantly changed the four-wheeler market by adding more customers. However, the shortage of semi conductors negatively affected the EV market. And a shortage of semiconductors has made people buy used cars since new ones are not readily available.
People who are looking for affordable options can decide whether a used EV is the right option or not. However, as compared to the overall vehicle market, EV’s market ratio is still too low. So before making any decision, here are the pros and cons of used electric cars.
Pros Of Electric Cars
Following are a few advantages which come with buying a used electric car :
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Better Condition & Less Maintenance
Unlike most cars, electric vehicles consist of lesser moving parts, lowering the risk of breaking down. An additional advantage of electric cars is their battery, which has 8 to 10 years of warranty and can be extended further depending on the company’s policy. Since EVs have fewer miles on the odometer and limited range than gas-powered cars, they’ll have less depreciation on suspensions, tires, and brakes.
In terms of energy efficiency, electric cars are better than gas models. EVs have an energy efficiency of nearly 62%, whereas gas vehicles have an energy efficiency of only 21%. In simple words, an electric vehicle converts a lot of electric energy into vehicle power.
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Environmentally-Friendly
The main reason behind starting with electronic vehicles is to reduce pollution caused by gas vehicles. Some manufacturing power plants are into renewable energy to manufacture EVs, ultimately aiming to reduce ground-level pollution. So, if you’re seeking to buy a used Electronic vehicle, it’ll draw less pollution to the environment.
However, EVs generate carbon emissions during manufacturing but can still outperform gasoline vehicles in the long run. According to a study based on the pros of electric cars, an EV can make up for its manufacturing emissions by driving for 18 months. In contrast, short-range models balance the additional emissions by being in use for 6 months.
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Favourable Resale Value
If you’re an owner of a gas car, it’ll be much more affordable for you to switch to an electric car. Electric vehicles are new in the market and are a better alternative if you’re unwilling to extend your budget. New electric vehicle models are launching rapidly in the market. Therefore, most people would be trading or selling their previous model, thus giving you plenty of options at an affordable price when buying a used electric car. Furthermore, with the electric vehicle market booming, the vehicle’s resale value will only increase in the coming years.
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Smooth Driving Experience
The biggest difference between EVs and gas vehicles is their engines. Unlike gasoline vehicles, EVs don’t have a combustion engine, generating less vibration while driving and running quieter and smoother. An electric vehicle also has low-weight and structural batteries that keep the vehicle on the road in a better manner. They also have a quick acceleration system with quick response.
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Good for Long-Term
Undoubtedly, EVs are the best alternative to gas/petrol/diesel expenditure. People might want to switch to EVs now because they are environmentally friendly, but how they reduce gas expenses is also important. Buying a used electric vehicle can be a smart and valuable investment to be economically well. Right now, when the prices of gas/petrol/diesel are at an all-time high, it would seem that EVs are better for the long term.
Cons of Buying a Used Electric Cars
The following are a few disadvantages of buying a used electric car that you must consider:
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Manufacturing Creates Excessive Emissions
While using an electric car produces fewer carbon emissions than the cars that run on fuel, the same cannot be said for how these EVs are manufactured. To understand how much gas emissions are released by electronic car manufacturing plants, you must know how its parts are made. An EV requires parts obtained through mining and releases many gases during the process. These materials then must go through a particular refining process before being usable.
Petrol and diesel cars also require the same process when manufacturing them. They release nearly 7 to 10 tonnes of CO2, but battery production is a separate section in the electric segment, which also emits tonnes of CO2 during production.
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Not Meant for Long Routes
Right now, the best electric car comes with a range of over 300 miles. But some electric cars’ disadvantages include that they only range up to 150 or fewer miles, which means that those cars are more suited for driving on short routes or in cities. Indeed, the battery’s technology is meant to be improved in the future, but if you need a high voltage charging point to charge your vehicle, motorway services are your only option.
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Might Have Battery Draining Problem
Another drawback of EVs is their battery draining problem. With time, the battery’s performance drains, and it can be frustrating when your EV only rages for 150 or fewer miles. As compared to regular cars, EV batteries lose their performance faster and only get worse if they don’t undergo service or are replaced with a new one.
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Less Charging Infrastructure
As discussed earlier, EV is a new tech currently developing its infrastructure. The main reason behind not choosing an EV is its lack of charging stations. Because if you have a small-range electric vehicle, you will need a charging station immediately. The government and other companies are working on making accessible infrastructure, but compared to fuel vehicles, they still have a long way to go. So, consider the availability of electric vehicle charging stations in your area before buying one.
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Takes Time to Recharge
Unlike gas or fuel tanks, EV charging stations don’t recharge the battery in minutes. You must wait at least 30 minutes at a high-charging station to recharge the battery to 80%. On the other hand, if you try using your regular charger, it can take up to 8 hours to charge your EV sufficiently. A standard charger is readily available, while a high-voltage charger works faster but doesn’t come as easily.
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More Expensive
Among the several disadvantages of electric cars, the biggest one is the expensive battery. Even though battery technology has developed significantly, the prices have not been reduced. While the prices may decrease in the future with the growing popularity of EVs, the same cannot be said about the current scenario. Therefore, consider this before purchasing a used electric vehicle.
Wrap-Up
Planning to buy a used electronic vehicle is an excellent option if you have all the required infrastructure and accessibility. From the service station to the refuelling station, EVs need a proper ecosystem to motivate gas vehicle owners to shift to electric vehicles. Therefore, go through the pros and cons of used electric cars mentioned above regarding the pros and cons of used electric cars before purchasing one.
You May Also Read
| Tips for Canadian Electric Car Buyer | How To Buy a Car in Canada? |
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Frequently Asked Question (FAQs)
Some of the major limitations of electric cars are: Not enough charging stations, Rare battery materials, Can't go over long drives.
Depending on your charger, an EV takes around 60 minutes to 10 hours to fully charge.
You can extend the battery life by charging up to 80%, avoiding quick-speed charging, and parking your EV at a moderate temperature.
Yes, brands such as Super Soco, Horwin, and Kollter sell EV motorcycles in Canada.
Check the parameters before buying used electric or gas cars: Power, Cost of Fuel, Cost of Maintenance, Combustion Engine and Affordability What are the limitations of electric cars?
How fast does a charger charge an electric car?
How do I extend the battery life of EVs?
Are there EV motorcycles in Canada?
Which aspects should I consider when choosing a used EV over a gas-engine car?
