The I-Pace is often wrongly overlooked on the used market (Image: Jaguar/PA)
With fuel prices at unprecedented highs, it’s a challenging period to be behind the wheel of a petrol or diesel car. Nevertheless, making the transition to an electric vehicle could deliver some real financial benefits, particularly if you’re able to charge at home and make the most of cheaper electricity tariffs during off-peak hours.
While many brand-new electric vehicles carry a hefty price tag, the second-hand market presents an opportunity to get behind the wheel of an EV for considerably less. The Press Association’s motoring expert Jack Evans has selected seven of the finest options currently available for under £30,000.
Seven used EVs you can buy in UK for less than £30,000
Kia e-Niro
Kia’s e-Niro is a superb all-rounder. It’s a versatile crossover, boasting a generous boot and ample interior storage solutions.
The e-Niro is one of the best used EVs around (Image: Kia/PA)
As with other models in the Kia range, it comes generously equipped with features such as heated seats fitted across nearly all trim levels.
Depending on the specification, you can achieve up to 282 miles from a single charge, while an impressive maximum charging speed of 77kW means a 10 to 80 per cent charge can be completed in approximately 45 minutes.
The Tesla Model 3 consistently ranks amongst the top-selling cars in the UK and this widespread appeal means there’s an abundance of choice within the used market. Jack discovered numerous options for under £30,000 and at this price, you’re also getting a car with a relatively modest mileage.
The Model 3 is one of the world’s best-selling EVs (Image: Tesla/PA)
A highly efficient choice, the large-battery variant of the 3 can achieve more than 300 miles of range, while a 10 to 80 per cent charge should take under 30 minutes. Furthermore, you can take advantage of Tesla’s outstanding Supercharger network of EV chargers, which are dotted across the UK.
Jaguar’s I-Pace was a genuinely luxurious vehicle when brand new and, at that time, carried a hefty price tag to match. On the second-hand market, the I-Pace represents a temptingly affordable option, delivering that premium finish in a package that still looks great today.
It also boasts a range of up to 292 miles, while a maximum charging speed of 100kW means you can complete a 10 to 80 per cent charge in less than half an hour.
While Volkswagen’s ID. 4 faced some criticism upon its launch, this was largely directed at the early infotainment system, which has since been updated and improved.
The ID.4 could be worth looking at if you’re happy to go electric (Image: VW/PA)
Today, the ID. 4 stands as one of the best-value used EVs on the market, offering generous interior space and a sizeable, practical boot.
Newer models can deliver more than 340 miles of range, though earlier versions will still achieve around 270. Much like the others featured here, a 10 to 80 per cent charge can be completed in under 30 minutes.
The BMW i4 (Image: BMW/PA)
From the outside at least, the BMW i4 doesn’t scream ‘EV’. In fact, with its sleek appearance and low-slung stance, it possesses all the hallmarks of a classic German saloon.
Yet it is very much an electric model, and one capable of achieving around 365 miles on a single charge. Among the i4’s key advantages is its driving experience.
Behind the wheel, it delivers the same weighted, sporty approach found throughout BMW’s range, making it amongst the more ‘normal-to-drive’ options available.
The Kona Electric shares its underpinnings with the Kia e-Niro (Image: Hyundai/PA)
Sharing design similarities with the Kia e-Niro, the Hyundai Kona Electric arrived offering multiple powertrain choices – both electrified and petrol variants – though the fully electric version stands out as the pick of the range. Models fitted with the larger battery pack should deliver up to 300 miles of range.
The Kona Electric’s cabin is solidly constructed and incorporates numerous quirky design elements. It’s supported by considerable practicality and generous interior storage capacity as well.
The MG4 (Image: MG/PA)
The MG4 EV represented MG’s breakthrough into mainstream electric motoring. Though it’s been available for some time now, the MG4’s appearance remains contemporary and represents excellent value on the second-hand market for motorists seeking to reduce expenditure.
A maximum range of 281 miles per charge ensures the MG4 remains suitable for longer journeys, while 150kW charging capability means minimal time spent at charging stations.
