Used Electric Car buying guide
Electric cars are changing the way we travel. For many EV drivers, going to the servo for petrol is no longer part of their routine. Simply plug in your car when you get home, and it's ready to go the next day. They also offer a smoother and quieter driving experience, quicker and more responsive to accelerate as well. While they haven’t taken over traditional internal combustion engines that run on petrol or diesel, they’re growing in popularity for their innovative tech and environmentally-friendly motor. The government-supported tax incentives for EVs and a growing network of charging infrastructure has also made them more and more accessible for Aussies as well. If you’re looking for a great way to reduce your carbon footprint and enjoy a smooth drive, here’s what you need to know about buying a used electric car.
What electric cars are available in Australia?
To keep up with the growing popularity of electric cars, almost every car brand has gone electric. The Tesla Model 3 and Model Y currently dominate as Australia’s top selling EV, and there are also plenty of promising EVs delivered by brands like Nissan, Hyundai, and Polestar. As an alternative to going full electric, plug-in hybrids like the Mitsubishi Outlander and Hyundai Ioniq are worth a look too.
How long does it take to charge an electric car?
Depending on the type of charging point and battery size, the charge time for an EV can take anywhere from 10 mins to 10 hours. Most EVs will show the battery’s status and charge rate on its display. There’s four common types of chargers, that include home wall chargers and public destination chargers.
If you mainly drive your EV as a commuter, overnight charging at a home wall box can get you a range that usually covers what you need for the day. For longer drives or road trips, look for destination charging points across metro areas and highway networks. Apps or websites with interactive maps that show free or paid charging networks around your area will come in handy there.
How far can an electric car travel on a single charge?
This also depends on the model of EV you have. The Tesla Model 3 leads the race at a claimed electric range of 652 km, and you’ll find other EVs available in Australia to have a range from 200-600 km on a single full charge. Many drivers may have range anxiety over driving long distances, but as fast charging networks continue to grow across the country, you’ll have plenty of options to help get you to your weekend holiday.
How safe are electric cars?
Just like traditional petrol and diesel cars, electric cars are designed and tested for safety. You can expect modern safety tech like driver attention monitor, forward collision warning, blind spot warning, rear cross traffic alert, lane departure warning, hill start assist, and traffic sign recognition on many of the new and used electric cars today. Most EVs have also been awarded 5-star ANCAP ratings for providing driver and passenger protection in the event of any danger on the roads.
Is it worth buying a used electric car?
Buying a used electric car can be a smart and cost-effective way to get your hands on cutting-edge innovative tech that can change the way you travel. You’ll be getting a used electric car for a lower price, and be able to enjoy the same reliability and smooth drive that they deliver. With the support from government incentives to go electric, getting your upfront costs offset makes buying a used electric car even more attractive. Many manufacturers also offer separate and usually longer warranties on the battery packs, so your used electric car could still be covered for any issues. Overall, EVs are great for the environment, energy efficient, and buying a used electric car gets you all the same benefits.
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