As more used electric vehicles hit the auto sales market, here's what you need to know before making a purchase.

• Although the number of used EVs is currently low, the market is expected to expand with the predicted increase in EV sales to over one million this year, from 800,000 in 2022.
• Similar to any used car sale, buying a used EV presents unique challenges such as charging needs, battery range, depreciation, and tax credits.

The number of affordable electric vehicles on the road in the U.S. has been steadily increasing, with over 2.2 million on the road at the end of last year. Electric vehicle sales have also been growing, with Kelley Blue Book reporting that sales surpassed 800,000 in 2022 and are expected to reach one million this year. While the used EV market is currently small, the growth trajectory of EV sales means that shopping for a used electric vehicle will become more common and easier over time, with a wider range of make and model choices available.

When purchasing a used electric vehicle, EV shoppers must consider charging options and range in addition to budget, lifestyle fit, reliability, and comfort.

Here are some of the key EV-specific issues to consider.

Charging remains limited in many areas

The number of gas stations in the U.S. is significantly higher than the number of public charging stations, which could be a problem for those looking to go electric. Despite improvements in charging infrastructure, it remains limited in many areas, making it an important consideration for anyone purchasing a used electric vehicle.

Tom McParland, a writer for Jalopnik and the founder of Automatch Consulting, advised consumers to determine their required range and research EVs that meet it. Additionally, they should consider the charging infrastructure available in their area and the feasibility of home charging.

Chris Harto, a senior energy policy analyst at Consumer Reports, advised shoppers to set realistic expectations when it comes to charging their electric vehicles. He suggested asking oneself where and when they will be charging, and if the answer is that they have no place to charge at home or work, they may want to consider purchasing a hybrid car, which offers excellent fuel economy and low maintenance costs.

Your driving, mileage habits matter

Electric vehicles with impressive ranges, such as the Air (EPA range estimate: up to 516 miles) and the Model S (up to 405 miles), may not require charging infrastructure. However, more affordable electric vehicles typically have shorter ranges.

Electric vehicles with list prices under $35,000, such as the Chevy Bolt EV and Hyundai Kona Electric, have EPA ranges of nearly 260 miles. However, they are unlikely to make it that far in real-world driving conditions, especially in cold weather, which can affect the electrochemical reactions inside batteries.

EV range will decline

The specific concern of battery degradation in electric vehicles (EVs) arises when considering their general battery considerations.

In the first five years, batteries can lose between 5% and 10% of their power due to various factors such as age, temperature exposure, and fast charging. If the degradation is significant, it may be necessary to repair or replace the battery, which can be expensive.

EV batteries, which are one of the most expensive components of an electric vehicle, can cost more than $10,000 to replace. However, federal regulations mandate that they are covered under warranty for at least eight years or 100,000 miles. As a result, shoppers looking at a lightly used BEV may still have some coverage left. Additionally, even a well-used battery may still have enough capacity to meet your needs.

Precise battery life is hard to measure

Assessing the precise condition of a used BEV's battery can be challenging due to the absence of a standard set of metrics in the U.S. auto industry. However, there are methods to obtain a general understanding of a battery's health.

A Seattle startup, in collaboration with the automotive site Edmunds, provides EV and plug-in hybrid consumers with a complimentary prediction of remaining battery life using data gathered on mileage, age, climate, and other relevant factors.

Monitoring a battery's health can be done through a long test drive, particularly when it involves sustained cruising at highway speeds, which drains batteries faster than stop-and-go driving.

It is recommended for consumers to get a professional inspection when purchasing used cars, especially electric vehicles (EVs). According to Ronald Montoya, Edmunds' senior consumer advice editor, dealership service departments that sell EVs are a good option as their mechanics have been trained by the manufacturer.

Electric vehicles lose value faster, but upkeep is less

According to Kelley Blue Book, EVs generally depreciate faster than ICE vehicles. Specifically, three-year-old EVs hold 63% of their value compared to 66% for vehicles using internal combustion. At five years, EVs hold 37% of their initial value while ICE vehicles hold 46%.

Buying used electric vehicles (EVs) can be a cost-effective option due to depreciation, but be prepared for a high price tag as many EVs are already expensive.

In March, the average used electric vehicle (EV) sold for $42,895, according to Kelley Blue Book executive editor Brian Moody. This represents a 1.8% decrease from February, but is still higher than the overall used vehicle market average of $27,000 in the first quarter.

Although EVs have a higher purchase price, their low maintenance and repair costs can offset this. Consumer Reports found that EVs cost about half as much to maintain as gas-powered vehicles. According to Benjamin Preston, an autos reporter for the organization, EVs don't require fluids to change and electric motors are less complicated than gasoline and diesel engines, resulting in less that can wear out.

A recent study revealed that EVs are more cost-effective to own in the long run than gas vehicles, with used EVs offering even greater savings due to depreciation.

Tax credit qualifications for used EVs

Besides the benefits of a used EV, it may also be eligible for state and federal incentives.

Qualifying for up to $4,000 in federal tax credits for used EVs purchased for up to $25,000 from a licensed dealer can be done by visiting the IRS website.

Kelley Blue Book provides information on the tax credits offered by many states.

Where the used EV deals are

Higher-priced models are often the better value in the used car market.

In the sedan segment, the luxury EV space offers the best value for money, and models like the Audi e-tron GT and Volvo S90 T8 PHEV can be particularly advantageous due to depreciation.

The luxury EV market is being affected by changes in federal tax credits, which only apply to SUVs under $80,000 and cars under $55,000, he said, adding that luxury vehicles often depreciate faster than the mainstream market.

Tesla's Model 3 is another attractive option, with ample space for a family of four and a range of up to 358 miles. Used Model 3 prices have been decreasing since 2022, with pre-owned vehicles selling for less than $43,000 in the first quarter.

According to Montoya, the best deals for budget-conscious shoppers are the Chevrolet Bolt EV, Hyundai Kona Electric, and Kia Niro EV, which provide a good balance of range and affordability.

According to Moody, the best values for electric cars are those that are older, past their warranty, and were relatively inexpensive when first purchased.