AUTO

Your Guide to the Cheapest Used Electric Car

December 12, 2024

Used EVs cut costs with cheaper fuel and maintenance.
Tax incentives may apply to pre-owned electric cars.
Affordable options include Nissan LEAFs under $3,000.

Gas prices may be at a three-year low, but savvy drivers know that investing in a used electric vehicle (EV) can offer greater long-term savings and stability. With a thriving market of affordable pre-owned options, December presents an excellent opportunity to make the switch to electric. Here’s a breakdown of the best deals, incentives, and practical tips for finding your ideal used EV.

Guide to the cheapest used electric car - Electrify Expo — _{Two individuals exploring an electric vehicle at an Electrify Expo, with one person inspecting the car’s info and specs on the board, and another standing nearby}

Why Consider a Used EV Over Gas-Powered Cars?

As of December 11, 2024, the national average for gas prices is $3.02 per gallon, the lowest in three years. While drivers appreciate the dip, analysts predict a possible increase of ten cents in the new year. These fluctuations make owning an electric vehicle a practical alternative, as charging costs remain consistently lower than gasoline.

Opting for the cheapest used electric car offers predictable expenses, reducing the impact of volatile fuel prices. Additionally, EVs deliver significant savings on maintenance, thanks to the absence of oil changes and less wear on brakes.

The Best Deals on the Cheapest Used Electric Cars This Month

The used electric car market is thriving, offering affordable options to suit various budgets and driving needs. Here are some of the best deals this December:

2012 Nissan LEAF: $2,950 with 73,034 miles (Rittman, OH)
2016 Kia Soul EV: $4,750 with 121,644 miles (Norcross, GA)
2016 Chevrolet Spark EV: $4,900 with 66,014 miles (Tucson, AZ)
2014 Chevrolet Volt: $5,200 with 149,598 miles (Fishers, IN)
2014 BMW i3: $6,889 with 100,860 miles (Chantilly, VA)
2014 Toyota RAV4 EV: $6,898 with 85,147 miles (Plano, TX)
2017 Hyundai IONIQ EV: $6,999 with 93,788 miles (Norco, CA)
2018 Tesla Model 3: $10,995 with 199,587 miles (Los Angeles, CA)
2015 Tesla Model S: $14,900 with 86,311 miles (Oklahoma City, OK)
2021 Volkswagen ID.4: $15,499 with 95,356 miles (Maple Shade, NJ)
2023 Nissan ARIYA: $18,994 with 20,533 miles (Seffner, FL)
2016 Tesla Model X: $18,999 with 137,566 miles (El Monte, CA)
2023 Subaru Solterra: $19,178 with 56,423 miles (San Diego, CA)
2021 Ford Mustang Mach-E: $19,480 with 108,002 miles (Burbank, IL)
2022 Kia EV6: $19,999 with 81,454 (Trooper, PA)
2023 Polestar 2: $20,000 with 106,360 miles (Florissant, MO)

These options highlight the wide range of cheapest used electric cars available, ensuring there is a model for every driver and budget. Be sure to check local listings, as availability and pricing can vary by region.

Tax Credits and Leasing Benefits

While federal tax credits are primarily reserved for new EVs, many states and localities offer rebates or incentives for used electric cars. For example, California’s Clean Vehicle Rebate Project provides savings on eligible pre-owned EVs, making the switch even more affordable.

If you are not ready to commit to buying, leasing a used EV can be an excellent option. Leasing allows you to indirectly benefit from tax credits, as manufacturers often pass those savings on through lower monthly payments. This makes leasing an attractive choice for first-time EV drivers.

Guide to the cheapest used electric car - Kia — _{A person sitting inside a Kia electric vehicle, examining the interior and steering wheel at Electrify Expo}

Practical Tips for Buying the Cheapest Used Electric Car

Buying the cheapest used electric car can save you money. Here are some tips to get the best deal:

Check Battery Health: The condition of a used EV’s battery directly impacts its value and range. For example, the 2013 Nissan LEAF, often priced under $10,000, provides great value even with moderate battery wear.
Compare Charging Options: Ensure your chosen EV supports convenient charging for your lifestyle. Models like the BMW i3 and Chevrolet Volt are compatible with Level 2 chargers, ideal for home setups.
Understand Operating Costs: EVs are cheaper to maintain and fuel than gas-powered cars, saving you money over time.

It is also essential to stay informed about potential policy shifts. A return of President-elect Donald Trump to office could roll back EV incentives, making it harder for buyers to take advantage of financial benefits.

Trump’s stance on loosening emissions regulations and reducing EV subsidies could pose challenges for the market. Keeping an eye on these developments helps ensure you make informed decisions.

The market for cheapest used electric cars is thriving, but deals like these do not last long. With gas prices expected to rise again, now is the time to secure a reliable, cost-effective EV.

Bookmark this guide and check back for updates, as new listings and incentives become available.

For even more options, visit CarsDirect to search for the best and cheapest used electric car in your area. Their platform makes it easy to compare prices, models, and features so you can find the perfect EV to match your needs.