DRIVERS looking to trade in their combustion engine motor for an affordable EV are in luck - with plenty of pre-owned examples currently available at bargain prices.
What's more, they represent great long-term savers in running costs, particularly if you charge at home.
Electric cars can be picked up reasonably cheaply second-handCredit: GettyThese electric motors, listed by Autocar, are not only cheap - but also simple to use as well as reliable and affordable to run, with a very well-equipped Hyundai among them.
BMW i3 - £6,000
BMW i3Credit: GettyThe iconic BMW i3 was the brand’s first ever zero emissions vehicle when they released in 2013.
Today, its considered a bit of a pioneer - with ahead-of-it’s-time stylings combined with innovative tech that makes it good to drive and surprisingly nippy.
Argos Boxing Day deals 2023: Save up to 50%While a range-extender hybrid was released, we’re talking about the pure electric i3 here - which offered 190 miles of range in its final EV form.
These days, prices for a second-hand model can start at around £6,000.
Mazda MX-30 - £10,000
Mazda MX-30Credit: Mazda UKBoasting brilliant handling, the Mazda MX-30 is an eye-catching EV that can be bought for a bargain price.
It’s also stylish inside - described as well built and lavishly equipped - and boasts over 100 miles in range, enough to make it a good option for short journeys.
Nissan Leaf - £2,000
Nissan LeafCredit: GettyThe cheapest used EV that money can buy is undoubtedly the Nissan Leaf.
Having been around for over 15 years, the Leaf is wildly affordable - Autocar says you can pay as little as £2,000 for an early example.
They added: “Of course, at this end of the market, you won’t get much range for your cash and examples fitted with a 24kWh battery deliver a realistic 80 miles of range.”
What’s more, the Leaf is proving to be durable and robust, requiring only routine maintenance.
Hyundai Ioniq - £9,000
Hyundai IoniqCredit: GettyPerhaps the best bargain is the Hyundai Ioniq, described as a “sensible, low-cost and hassle-free runaround.”
Autocar suggests drivers can expect “around 165 miles day to day” from the Ioniq’s battery from a charge, while its Premium trim is “very well equipped.”
18 expert hacks to help you lose a STONE in just one monthThese can be picked up for just under £9,000 for a 2020 example with around 50,000 miles on the clock.