If you’re after the cheapest used electric car, you’ve come to the right place.
After thorough research on our EV marketplace data, auctions and analysis of different makes, I’ve compiled a list of the 10 best cheapest used electric cars.
Contrary to popular opinion, not all electric cars are luxuriously expensive. And if you decide to take the used car route, you can shave several, if not tens of thousands dollars off the price quickly.
An affordable used electric car can make an excellent choice for a first hybrid or fully electric vehicle that’s eco-friendly and brings savings.
10 Cheapest Used EVs
Here are the cheapest used EVs in the US, ranked according to the lower end of the price range:
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Chevrolet Spark 2016
Price Range: $10,000 to $13,000
Range: 82 miles
The Chevrolet Spark 2016 is the cheapest EV and packs in a decent range for a subcompact hatchback.
You’ll be surprised by its acceleration, as it can reach 60 mph in just over 7 seconds.
This was the last EV trim for the Spark. Also, the standard Spark got a complete makeover in 2016, but the EV version retained the look and features from the previous year.
As a subcompact hatchback, it’s not the most spacious. However, it’s a good choice for city driving, as it can be easy to handle and park even in tight spaces.
The car is powered by a 19-21 kWh lithium-ion battery.
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Nissan Leaf 2017
Price Range: $11,000 to $13,000
Range: 107 miles
The Nissan Leaf has consistently been one of the most affordable electric cars. And a used 2017 Nissan Leaf can be super cheap, as it’s the last model in that particular generation.
Although the generation after it got a complete redo, I find this model nearly as impressive.
Its body is quite streamlined for a hatchback, allowing for a more spacious interior while still having a small size.
The interior is far from fancy, but if you value performance more, this is the right choice.
It offers a range of 107 miles with its 30 kWh battery, arguably the highest in its class.
It was also one of the first all-electric vehicles on the market so if you can find one with a battery in good condition it could be a good buy.
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Volkswagen e-Golf 2016
Price Range: $12,000 to $14,000
Range: 83 miles
The electric trim of the popular Golf hatchback, the Volkswagen e-Golf 2016, is the most spacious of the electric hatchbacks on my list.
So, if you want the cheapest used electric car but also a spacious interior, the 2016 e-Golf is the answer.
But space isn’t the only pro, as its acceleration and handling are pretty smooth, thanks to a low center of gravity.
The interior and the features are almost identical to its gas-powered version. Both upper (SEL) and lower trims (SE) come with Apple CarPlay.
While affordable, it’s unavailable widely, as Volkswagen didn’t make many of these. But if you can get your hands on it, it’s worth the price.
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Ford Focus Electric 2018
Price Range: $13,000 to $15,000
Range: 115 miles
Powered by a 143-hp electric motor, the Ford Focus was the company’s second all-electric vehicle.
Its 2018 model, the last production year, makes for an impressive yet cheap EV, with special thanks to its infotainment system.
The range of 115 miles was a notable increase from the last few models. It also offers remote start.
Although the interior is spacious enough, the cargo space isn’t.
This particular model is also the quietest in the whole generation. And like its gas engine counterpart, it offers the same road holding and steering. These were made in very small quantities and some of the electrical parts are hard to find because of the low production. Therefore, it’s not highly recommended.
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Fiat 500e 2019
Price Range: $14,000 to $17,000
Range: 84 miles
When looking for an affordable used EV, you’ll mostly find cars older than five years. However, the Fiat 500e 2019 is under five years old as of 2023.
Although discontinued after that, it’s still available as a used EV in many parts of the country, especially in states with emission standards.
Yes, it’s a pretty small car, but if you’re just buying to drive it yourself, it can be a good option.
Its size allows its acceleration to be quick. Also, I find compact cars like the Fiat 500e incredibly easy to maneuver.
The range is less than ideal for long drives, but for city driving, especially in a city with frequent EV charging stations, this model can make do.
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Nissan Leaf 2018-2019
Price Range: $15,000 to $19,000
Range: 151 miles
As I mentioned, the Nissan Leaf got a complete redesign with its 2018 model. So if you want something newer looking, this is the one.
Despite the redesign, the price wasn’t increased significantly back when it was first released.
You can find the 2018 and 2019 used models in the lower range easily.
It also introduced features like ProPilot Assist, similar to what’s typically found on higher-end EVs.
You’ll also notice that the range significantly improved from the previous generation. This is partly thanks to the powerful 40 kWh battery on this model.
Nissan also paid attention to the car’s comfort with this model, making the front seats and the cabin noticeably cozier than the first generation.
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Toyota RAV4 EV 2014
Price Range: $15,000 to $19,000
Range: 103 miles
If hatchbacks are too small for you, consider the 2014 Toyota RAV4 EV. As a crossover SUV, it has ample cargo space and a roomy interior.
Although the gas-powered RAV4 has experienced redesign, the EV version retained the same look as prior years.
It’s a practical car with a decent range. But you won’t find any advanced features common in EVs today on this one.
The interior is dated, considering it’s nearly a decade-old model. However, the construction is rugged, as is common in many Toyota lineups.
Also, you’ll find all the necessary safety features on this model.
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Kia Soul EV 2019
Price Range: $18,000 to $23,000
Range: 111 miles
The Kia Soul EV 2019 looks like a small SUV. It’s deliberately designed to look that way, and Kia is even marketed as a crossover.
As a result, it offers plenty of cabin and cargo space, especially when compared with compact vehicles.
It’s quiet and delivers performance similar to its gas-powered counterparts. The battery is an impressive 90 kWh.
The 2019 model, the last EV model in that generation, had the Kia touchscreen interface, which was new at the time.
Its battery is reliable but takes five hours to charge fully. Also, the range could be better, but the tradeoff is that you get more space.
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Chevrolet Bolt EV 2019
Price Range: $18,000 to $20,000
Range: 238 miles
I’ve been a fan of the Chevrolet Bolt EV since the first model launched in 2017.
The 2019 Chevy Bolt is a big improvement over that first model, albeit it’s the same generation.
Its impressive range of 238 miles is comparable with models quite above its price range, even when it was new.
You can get the earlier models for even cheaper, and the more recent models for higher.
But I believe the 2019 model is just affordable enough and not that old at the same time.
While a hatchback, it offers a roomy cabin and a smooth drive.
The interior isn’t much to write about, especially given the feature-rich interiors of EVs today.
Nevertheless, it makes up for it with its range and drive.
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Tesla Model 3 2018
Price Range: $25,000 to $30,000
Range: 310 miles
When looking for the cheapest used EVs, you won’t find many Teslas to fit your budget, except the Model 3.
The first-ever 2017 Model 3 was the EV maker’s venture into the affordable market, offering the brand prestige at a lower price than its flagship models.
The Model 3 used to be not that affordable but that’s changed recently and there are tons of great used examples for relatively little.
Its rated range of up to 310 miles is suitable for long-distance driving. I found its interior the best in terms of materials and comfort.
You can also take advantage of Tesla’s Supercharger network, a huge plus for most anyone with an EV. This is my personal favorite for a cheaper used EV. If your budget allows, put this on your must drive list.
FAQs
What does the cheapest EV cost?
The cost of the cheapest new EVs on the market typically starts upwards of $28,000. However, when considering the 10 Best Cheapest Used Electric Cars, the prices can be significantly lower.
Some of these affordable pre-owned electric vehicles are available for $10,000 or thereabouts. The final price will depend on factors such as the car’s year, brand, and specific features. Additionally, hybrids and plug-in hybrids, which frequently appear on lists of cost-effective electric vehicles, can be an option for those not ready to go fully EV.
How long do EV batteries last?
EV batteries can last anywhere from 100,000 to 200,000 miles. Federal law requires manufacturers to provide a warranty for the battery 8 years and up to 100,000 miles, some states such as California require even longer warranty periods.
With time, the battery can begin to lose its capacity. However, high-quality EV batteries can easily last a decade and in my case of my 2010 Tesla Roadster, 13 years and it’s still going strong.
Which brand offers the cheapest electric car?
The brands that produce some of the cheapest electric cars include Kia, Hyundai, and Chevrolet.
The Kia Leaf, Hyundai Kona, and Chevrolet Bolt EV have some of the lowest prices in the battery-powered electric vehicle category. Again- don’t count out Tesla. They are dominating the used and new EV market for a reason and most are surprised on how affordable they can be.
More on EV Universe:
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- Find Your Perfect EV: Harness our EV Matchmaker tool to explore a diverse range of electric vehicles, filter by your preferences, and discover hidden gems that perfectly match your driving style and budget.
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