Used Electric Car Sales Hit Record High in the UK as EV Demand Grows in 2025

Used Electric Vehicle Sales Reach Record High in the UK: What It Means for Drivers in 2025

 

The UK's electric revolution is no longer just about new cars. The second-hand market is now stepping into the spotlight. According to new data released this week, used battery electric vehicle (BEV) sales in the UK have hit a record high, a significant milestone in the country's move to cleaner motoring.

 

This isn't a one-off. The numbers show a fundamental change in buyer behaviour. Where electric vehicles were once the preserve of tech enthusiasts or wealthy early adopters, they're now mainstream for everyday used car buyers.

 

So, what's driving this surge? And what should drivers know before getting into the used EV market? Let's take a look. 

 

Used BEVs Top 6.3% of All Used Car Sales

 

Data from UK retail sales platforms shows that used BEVs accounted for 6.34% of all retail used car sales in May 2025, up from 6.28% last month. That's a small percentage, but with the millions of used car sales each year, that's a big jump.

 

In fact, used EV sales are growing faster than petrol and diesel. This is the clearest sign that the second-hand EV market is maturing, and buyer confidence is growing.

 

What's Behind the Boom in Used EV Sales?

 

Several trends have come together to increase used EV sales in 2025.

 

1. More Used Stock Coming into the Market

The first wave of EVs from major manufacturers arrived in volume around 2019 and 2020. Many of those vehicles were bought under lease or PCP agreements that have now ended. As a result, more two to five-year-old BEVs are entering the used market.

Buyers today have much more choice. There are models at every price point, whether it's a Tesla Model 3, a Nissan Leaf, a Kia e-Niro or even a Volkswagen ID.3.

 

2. Prices Falling and Better Value

As supply has increased, prices have become more competitive. Used BEV values dropped significantly in 2023 and 2024 but have stabilised in early 2025. The price correction has made EVs accessible to buyers who previously found them too expensive.

For example, a 2021 MG ZS EV or Renault Zoe can now be bought for less than many comparable petrol hatchbacks. With low running costs, zero road tax, and exemption from congestion charges, the overall ownership experience can be cheaper, too.

 

3. More Trust in Battery Performance

Battery degradation was once a dealbreaker for potential buyers of second-hand EVs. But the reality is proving far more reassuring. Studies and real-world data show most EVs lose only a small percentage of their battery capacity each year. A well-maintained three-year-old electric car may still have 90 to 95% of its original range.

Manufacturers have also stepped in to provide longer battery warranties, often up to eight years, which transfer to new owners. This has helped ease 'range anxiety' and build trust in the used EV sector.

 

4. Government Pressure and Urban Clean Air Zones

More cities are introducing clean air zones or expanding ultra-low emission zones (ULEZ), so the pressure to switch to electric vehicles is growing. For many drivers who can't afford a brand new EV, a second-hand model is a practical, compliant, and affordable solution.

 

 

 

Best Selling Used Electric Cars in 2025

 

While model-level data from today's figures hasn't been released publicly, several sources, including platforms like Cinch, AutoTrader and Carwow, have shown the following models are leading the charge in used EV sales:

• Tesla Model 3 – Dominates due to range, tech appeal and brand cache
• Nissan Leaf – One of the most widely available and affordable options
• Kia e-Niro – Popular with families due to range and practicality
• MG ZS EV – Unbeatable value for money in the SUV space
• Hyundai Kona Electric – Solid all-rounder with loyal buyers
• Renault Zoe – City focused EV that still attracts budget conscious buyers

 

Chinese brands like BYD, ORA, and Omoda are also starting to appear in the used listings in growing numbers as they have entered the UK new car market in force in recent years.

 

What to Know Before Buying a Used EV

 

Buying a used electric car can be a smart financial and environmental move, but you must be informed. Here are some tips to help you navigate the market with confidence:

 

1. Check Battery Warranty

Most EVs come with a separate battery warranty, typically eight years or 100,000 miles. Depending on age and mileage, this may still apply to a used car. Always ask the seller for documentation to confirm what's still covered.

 

2. Check Charging Compatibility

Make sure the vehicle supports the charging infrastructure near you. Most newer EVs support rapid charging and the CCS connector, but older models may use CHAdeMO or Type 1 plugs, which are less common.

 

3. Request a Battery Health Report

Some dealerships and online platforms provide battery condition certificates. While not always mandatory, they offer peace of mind and can help you assess the remaining range.

 

4. Compare Total Cost of Ownership

Remember to factor in insurance, charging costs, servicing, and any incentives or exemptions. You may find a used EV cheaper to run than an equivalent petrol car, even if the sticker price is higher.

 

What This Means

 

Used EVs now make up over 6% of retail used car sales. That's what's to come. As the government pushes towards a 2035 ban on new petrol and diesel sales, used BEVs will be key to making electric driving more accessible to the driving public.

 

Manufacturers, dealers, and leasing companies are already adjusting their strategies. In the next 12 months, expect to see more warranty support, battery health tools, and education campaigns for used EV buyers.

 

This is also an opportunity for independent dealers and brokers. By offering well-presented, competitively priced used EVs with clear battery health documentation, you can capture a growing share of the market.

 

Conclusion

 

The UK used electric car market is not only growing, it's accelerating. With BEVs now making up a record percentage of second-hand sales, more drivers than ever are choosing electric cars for their next car, not because they have to but because it makes sense.

 

Sources :

Motor Finance Online: Record used BEV sales in the UK