The used electrical goods market: a guide to choosing and checking items

The market for used electric cars is experiencing significant growth in Italy, with a25% increase in sales in mid-2025 compared to the previous year.

This trend represents a real opportunity for those who want to switch to sustainable mobility while keeping costs down, making the transition to electric vehicles accessible to a wider range of consumers.

However, purchasing a second-hand electric vehicle requires specific attention and different skills compared to a traditional car with a combustion engine.

The market boom: figures and prospects

The used electric vehicle segment is maturing across Europe. The first mass-market electric vehicles, launched between2017 and 2020, are now entering the used market in significant numbers, creating attractive purchasing opportunities.

Prices have stabilized after an initial period of uncertainty, with prices typically rangingbetween 40% and 60% of the original list priceafter 3-5 years, depending heavily on the brand, model, and, above all, the condition of the battery.

The segment ofex-company fleet vehiclesand long-term rental cars coming out of contract is generating particular interest. These vehicles, generally well maintained and with a documented history, offer an excellent compromise between age, mileage, and price. Growing availability is democratizing access to electric mobility, bringing costs closer to those of equivalent diesel and gasoline vehicles.

Battery status: the most important check

The battery is the heart of an electric car, and itsstate of health (SOH)largely determines the residual value of the vehicle. A degraded battery means reduced range, potentially longer charging times, and, in extreme cases, the need for costly replacement.

Before purchasing, always request aSOH certificate issued by a manufacturer-authorized workshopthat has access to the complete diagnostic data of the Battery Management System.

A battery in good condition should retainat least 80% of its original capacityeven after 100,000-150,000 km. Some premium manufacturers such as Tesla or BMW provide detailed reports on battery status through their official apps, making verification more transparent.

Be wary of sellers who cannot provide this documentation or who are reluctant to undergo thorough diagnostic tests.

Also checkyour fast charging history: excessive and continuous use of high-power fast charging stations can accelerate cell degradation, especially if charging has been carried out with a very hot or very cold battery.

Vehicles used primarily for long-distance highway driving tend to place greater stress on the battery than those used mainly in the city with overnight home charging.

Analysis of actual range and fuel consumption

During the inspection, comparethe range stated by the on-board computerwith the manufacturer's original data. A difference of more than 20% compared to WLTP values is normal (approval cycles are optimistic), butlarger discrepanciesmay indicate problems. Test the vehicle in different conditions: urban, extra-urban, with air conditioning on and off.

Actual range depends on many factors besides battery condition:driving style, weather conditions, tire pressure, and weight carried. A used electric car with a good battery but worn or poorly inflated tires will show abnormal consumption.

Also check the efficiency ofthe heat pump(if present), a system that in winter can make the difference between acceptable autonomy and dramatically reduced autonomy.

Verification of history and complete documentation

As with any used vehicle, carefully check themaintenance logand verify that all scheduled maintenance has been performed at authorized service centers. Electric cars require less maintenance than combustion engine cars, but periodic checks are still essential: fluid checks (battery and engine cooling), brake checks, alignment,software updates, and driver assistance system calibrations.

Thehistory of software updates is particularly important, as these can significantly improve performance, range, and functionality in electric vehicles.

Some manufacturers release over-the-air updates that increase charging power or optimize thermal management. Make sure your vehicle is updated to the latest version available.

Make sure there are noopen recalls from the manufacturer(verifiable via the VIN code on the official website) and that anybattery warrantiesare still valid and transferable to the new owner. Most manufacturers offeran 8-year or 160,000 km warranty onthe battery, but some premium brands offer up to 10 years. This warranty is an important asset that protects your investment.

Always request acomplete vehicle history reportthrough certified services, checking for serious accidents, suspicious ownership transfers, or abnormal use. An electric car that has been in an accident involving battery damage may have dangerous latent problems.

In-depth test drive: what to check

During the road test, carefully monitor theinstantaneous and average energy consumptiondisplayed on the screen. The values should be consistent with those declared by the manufacturer for the specific model.

Abnormal consumption may indicate problems with the battery, traction system, or various inefficiencies. Check that thebraking energy recovery system(regeneration) is working correctly at all available levels.

Testcharging at a public station, preferably both AC slow/medium charging) and DC fast charging) if your vehicle supports it. Ensure that the charging system is functioning correctly, that the charging speed matches the specifications, and that there are no communication errors between the vehicle and the charging station.

A common problem with used cars is malfunctioningCCS or CHAdeMOsystems due to damaged connectors or faulty electronics. Also check that theair conditioning is working perfectly: in electric cars, air conditioning and heating have a significant impact on range.

An inefficient or damaged system can reduce the range by 30-40% in winter. Check that the heat pump (if present) is working properly and that there are no refrigerant gas leaks.

Pay attention tounusual noisescoming from the electric motor or gearbox. Although electric motors are quiet, high-pitched whistling, vibrations, or mechanical noises may indicate problems with the bearings or transmission.

Check the steering, suspension, and overall feel: an electric car is heavier than an equivalent combustion engine car, so the suspension is subjected to greater stress.

Charging infrastructure: practical assessment of everyday use

Before finalizing your purchase, realistically assess theavailability of charging infrastructurein your everyday usage scenario. A used electric car is only a sensible investment if you have easy access to charging, both at home and in public.

Check whether it is possible to install awallbox at homeor in the condominium garage, finding out about the costs and necessary authorizations.

Map the public charging stations available along your usual routes: home-work, children's schools, shopping centers you frequent. Modern solutions offered by widespread and reliable networks guarantee increasing territorial coverage, making electric mobility increasingly practical even for those who do not have home charging.

The quality of infrastructure in your geographical area can make the difference between a positive and a frustrating experience. Also consider yourtravel patterns: if you frequently travel long distances, check for fast charging corridors on major routes.

A vehicle with limited range (e.g.,250 km in real terms) may be perfect for urban and commuter use, but inadequate for frequent highway travel.

Operating costs: the hidden economic advantage

Used electric vehicles offersignificant economic advantagesthat go beyond their lower purchase price compared to new vehicles. Maintenance is drastically reduced compared to combustion engines:no oil changes, filters, spark plugs, timing belts, or clutches.

The only routine maintenance involves tires, coolant (every 3-4 years), brakes (which last much longer thanks to regenerative braking), and the cabin filter.

Vehicle tax is free or greatly reducedin almost all Italian regions, with total exemption for the first 5 years in many areas.Third-party liability insurancefor electric vehicles is generally10-30%cheaper than for equivalent combustion engine cars, thanks to lower accident rates.Free access to restricted traffic zonesin major Italian cities represents a further saving for those who live or work in the city center.

Refueling costs are significantly lower: both home and public charging stations, while varying according to the rates of different operators, almost always have a lower cost per 100 km than the equivalent for a gasoline car. These benefits more than offset any slightly higher purchase price compared to an equivalent diesel or gasoline car.

Where to buy: channels and warranties

The used electric vehicle market is divided into several channels:official dealerships with guaranteed used vehicle programs, specialized multi-brand dealers, certified online platforms, and the private market. Each channel has pros and cons: dealerships offer greater guarantees but higher prices, while private sellers offer better prices but greater risks.

For a safe purchase, choose sellers who offera minimum 12-month warranty, financing options, and specific warranty extension programs for the battery.

Some car manufacturers have launchedcertified used electric vehicle programswith 100+ point inspections and extended warranties, representing the safest but also most expensive option.

FAQ: Frequently asked questions aboutused electric cars

How many kilometers can an electric car battery last?
Modern batteries are designed to last 200,000-300,000 km while maintaining at least 80% of their original capacity. Most manufacturers offer 8-year or 160,000 km warranties on the battery. Some new batteries exceed these expectations, reaching 400,000+ km with limited degradation.

Is it worth buying an electric car with more than 100,000 km?
It depends on the condition of the battery and the price. With an SOH above 80% and a sufficiently discounted price, it can be a good deal. Always check the remaining warranty on the battery and consider that many other components (electric motor, electronics) have a much longer service life than their thermal counterparts.

Come si calcola il valore di un’auto elettrica usata?
Oltre ai fattori tradizionali (anno, km, condizioni generali, brand), conta molto lo stato della batteria. Un SOH elevato (>85%) può giustificare un prezzo più alto del 15-20%, mentre un degrado significativo (<75%) deve riflettersi in uno sconto sostanziale del 30-40% rispetto al valore di mercato con batteria sana.

Is it possible to replace the battery in a used electric car?
Yes, but the cost is high: €5,000-15,000 depending on the model and capacity. This is why it is essential to purchase vehicles with batteries in good condition. Some manufacturers offer reconditioning programs (replacement of damaged modules) that are cheaper than completely replacing the battery pack.

Do used electric cars lose more value than combustion engine cars?
Currently, yes, mainly due to market uncertainty and concerns about batteries. However, the trend is stabilizing. Vehicles with batteries in excellent condition retain their value better. The biggest losses occur in the first three years, after which the depreciation curve slows down.

About Powy

Powy a company that owns, develops, and manages Italy's leading independent network of public charging infrastructure for electric vehicles.

Founded in Turin, Italy in 2018, Powy is at the center of the transition to more sustainable mobility, offering an innovative charging infrastructure that uses only 100 percent renewable energy.

Powy 's network includes quick, fast, and ultra-fast charging solutions strategically placed in public and private parking lots, supermarkets, shopping malls, and transportation hubs to ensure maximum convenience and accessibility for EV drivers. Each station is equipped with advanced technologies to provide a reliable and efficient charging experience.

Learn more: wpowy.energy