Your guide to buying an electric car - whether it's new or pre-loved

If the idea of owning a pre-loved electric appeals, but the buying process doesn’t, relax; this easy-to follow guide should help no end.

The first things to look for? These are mostly down to common sense. Does the car come with a full service history? Are the bodywork and wheels damage-free? Does everything work? Check for things such as sticking door handles and glitchy touch screens. Take your time, and always drive a car to see if you like it. 

A modern electric’s battery should last the life of the car, but will gradually lose some efficiency over time. During the test drive see how much the power drops per mile compared to the predicted range. Most electrics have battery efficiency indicators. 

You can also download model-specific battery diagnostic apps, or go online and buy a well-reviewed electric car battery tester.

Make a list of things that are important to you. Will an electric have the range to cover your annual mileage and regular journeys? Does it suit your driving style? Where will you recharge it? Draw up a budget, then look for cars that best fit your lifestyle.

Many online dealers and comparison websites will offer a search function to add ‘must have’ features such as air con, which can help narrow your search. If this is saved they’ll alert you to cars they think meet your needs. Reading their expert new car reviews and long-term tests might inspire you too.

With new electric models being introduced onto the market all the time, the choice is getting ever-wider, so don’t rush.

But which one? If you’re looking for a budget-priced, city-friendly baby car the Volkswagen e-up! could well fit the bill. There are plenty to choose from. The younger Fiat 500e will cost you more, but it’s uber-cute.

The Peugeot e-208 brings electric drive to the compact five-door hatchback sector, while bigger pre-loved electric perennials the Nissan Leaf and Renault Zoe are practical, proven and readily available.

The first generation Hyundai Ioniq is a capable car and a popular choice, then there are the MG4 and Volkswagen ID.3, which bring room and modern tech to the pre-loved electric family hatchback market. The MG5 is another good option: a spacious, comfortable estate that was the first of its kind.

Electric versions of Vauxhall’s Mokka small SUV are also readily available, and anyone seeking school-run space might consider the van-based Citroen e-Berlingo. Some versions seat seven.

Moving upmarket, the rapid, clever Tesla Model Y SUV is a space efficiency masterclass, the Audi e-tron is all about pampering, while the Volkswagen ID.4 and Skoda Enyaq ballroom-sized inside.

Upmarket saloons such as the Polestar 2 and Tesla Model 3 also offer excellent range and performance for drivers with a more generous budget.

Buying new gives you the latest tech, greatest range and no wear and tear, but new electrics are more expensive to start with, and you’ll take a bigger depreciation hit when selling.

Pre-loved owners save on purchase price but still get zero emissions, city congestion charge exemptions, no road tax (until next year), cheaper maintenance thanks to mechanical simplicity, and if they’re home-charging, access to cheaper tariffs.

Modern electric cars have been around for over a decade. Some used models can be found online for as little as £3,500, but they may have limited ranges.

Other things to consider? Maintenance and insurance costs can vary, but a pre-loved electric’s total ownership costs can often be lower than a conventional model’s. Get the right electric pre-loved car and its efficiency, cleanliness and convenience will make you love it too.